Embracing the Heartwarming Comfort of Farmers Cheese Pancakes with Apple
There’s something magical about gathering around the breakfast table on a crisp autumn morning, the smell of apples and cinnamon wafting through the house. It reminds me of my childhood when my mom would make these Farmers Cheese Pancakes with Apple, known as Syrniki, and we’d all huddle together, eager to devour them. Cooking these pancakes brings that sense of warmth and closeness into my kitchen today, and I’m thrilled to share this delightful recipe with you. It’s a recipe that not only fills the belly but also the soul, perfect for creating those cherished family moments that we all hold dear.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Family-Approved Comfort Food: These pancakes are the epitome of comfort food, with a flavor profile that pleases both kids and adults. They’re perfect for a leisurely family breakfast or brunch.
- Simple, Everyday Ingredients: You won’t need to make a special trip to the store. This recipe uses ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen, making it both convenient and budget-friendly.
- Quick and Easy: With a prep and cook time that fits perfectly into a busy morning, you can have these pancakes ready in about 30 minutes, all while enjoying your morning coffee.
- Nutritious and Satisfying: Farmers cheese is packed with protein, and when combined with the natural sweetness of apples, it makes for a balanced meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
- Versatile Toppings: From sweet jams and decadent syrups to tangy sour cream, these pancakes can be dressed up in myriad ways to suit every palate.
The Story Behind Syrniki
Originating from Eastern Europe, Syrniki has been a staple in Russian, Ukrainian, and Belarusian kitchens for centuries. These delightful pancakes are traditionally made with quark, a fresh dairy product, but farmers cheese is a fantastic substitute that is more readily available in many parts of the world. The addition of apples and cinnamon to this classic dish brings an autumnal twist that complements the creamy texture of the pancakes perfectly.
The Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 to 5 servings
Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
Ingredients:
– 2 cups farmers cheese, homemade or store-bought
– 4 large eggs
– 3/4 cups all-purpose flour + 1/2 cup for dredging
– 3 Tbsp granulated sugar
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp cinnamon
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp white vinegar
– 1 medium apple, any variety, peeled, cored, and finely diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
– Light olive oil, canola, or vegetable oil, to sauté
Instructions: 1. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of farmers cheese, 4 eggs, 3/4 cup flour, 3 Tbsp sugar, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp cinnamon. Use an electric hand mixer on medium speed and mix just until well blended. 2. In a small ramekin, place 1 tsp baking soda and add 1 tsp vinegar. Stir to combine—watch it fizz! Pour this mixture into the batter and mix until well blended. Use a spatula to fold in the diced apples. Allow the mixture to thicken slightly as it stands. 3. Heat a large non-stick pan over medium/low heat and add 2 to 3 Tbsp oil. 4. Fill a shallow bowl with 1/2 cup flour. Add batter a heaping tablespoon at a time (I use a flat ice cream scoop). Sprinkle flour generously over the top, then gently lift the pancake and pat it from one hand to another to remove excess flour. 5. Sauté in hot oil over medium/low heat for about 3 minutes per side. Flip when you see tiny bubbles forming on top. Transfer to a platter and serve warm with your favorite topping such as jam and sour cream.
Exploring Ingredient Benefits
The ingredients in this recipe are not only accessible and affordable but also bring a variety of health benefits to the table. Let’s delve deeper into each:
- Farmers Cheese: A protein-rich base that gives the pancakes a creamy texture and mild flavor. It’s low in fat and calories compared to other cheeses, making it a nutritious option.
- Eggs: Provide structure and richness, helping the pancakes hold together. They are a great source of protein and essential vitamins like B12 and D.
- Flour: Adds body and helps the pancakes set properly. Flour is a good source of carbohydrates, which are essential for energy.
- Sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the tangy cheese and apples. While it’s important to monitor sugar intake, in moderation, it adds a delightful flavor to the pancakes.
- Cinnamon: Elevates the flavor with its warm, comforting aroma. Cinnamon has antioxidant properties and may contribute to heart health.
- Baking Soda and Vinegar: This duo acts as a leavening agent, ensuring the pancakes are light and fluffy. It’s a natural way to add volume without extra calories.
- Apples: Offer natural sweetness and a bit of crunch, adding depth to every bite. Apples are high in fiber and vitamin C, promoting overall health.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With This Dish
These Farmers Cheese Pancakes with Apple pair wonderfully with a variety of toppings and sides, making every breakfast a customizable delight:
- Sour Cream and Jam: A classic combination that adds a tangy and sweet contrast. Choose homemade strawberry or raspberry jam for an authentic touch.
- Maple Syrup: For those who enjoy a sweeter breakfast, a drizzle of pure maple syrup can be heavenly.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries or blueberries can add a burst of freshness and a pop of color to your plate.
- Nuts and Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted almonds, walnuts, or chia seeds can add a delightful crunch and extra nutrients.
- Yogurt and Honey: For a protein-packed option, try serving the pancakes with Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Having the right tools can make your cooking experience enjoyable and efficient. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Electric Hand Mixer: To ensure the batter is smooth and well-mixed, preventing lumps.
- Large Mixing Bowl: For combining all your ingredients without making a mess.
- Small Ramekin: To prepare the baking soda and vinegar mixture, a crucial step for fluffy pancakes.
- Non-stick Pan: Ideal for cooking the pancakes without them sticking, ensuring an even, golden-brown crust.
- Spatula: For gently folding in the apples and flipping the pancakes with ease.
- Flat Ice Cream Scoop: For consistent pancake sizes, ensuring even cooking and presentation.
Tips for the Perfect Syrniki
Even simple recipes can benefit from a few insider tips to make execution flawless:
- Choose the Right Cheese: If you can’t find farmers cheese, ricotta is an excellent substitute. Make sure to drain it well to avoid overly moist batter.
- Consistency is Key: Your batter should be thick enough to hold its shape when scooped. If it’s too runny, add a bit more flour.
- Controlled Heat: Cooking on medium/low heat ensures the pancakes cook through without burning on the outside. This is especially important for the perfect texture.
- Resting the Batter: Allowing the batter to rest for a few minutes helps the flour absorb moisture and the baking soda and vinegar to activate fully, resulting in fluffier pancakes.
- Test One First: Cook one pancake initially to test the batter’s consistency and adjust if necessary. This way, you won’t end up with a whole batch of pancakes that aren’t to your liking.
Storage & Leftover Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (though they rarely last long in my house!), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to retain their crispiness.
- Freezer: Place pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to a month. Reheat directly from frozen in a warm oven or toaster oven.
Bringing Family Together
Cooking is about creating memories as much as it is about the food itself. These Farmers Cheese Pancakes with Apple are more than just a meal; they’re a way to bring family and friends together, making every bite a shared experience. The act of cooking itself—measuring ingredients, stirring batter, flipping pancakes—can be a bonding activity, especially when done with loved ones. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a special breakfast to celebrate a momentous occasion, these pancakes serve as a delicious reminder of the joys of home-cooked meals.
Give this recipe a try, and let the warmth of home-cooked comfort fill your kitchen. If you’re looking for more cozy breakfast ideas, check out my Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes or my Classic French Toast recipes on mateorecipes.blog. Happy cooking!
Farmers Cheese Pancakes with Apple (Syrniki)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl combine farmers cheese, eggs, 3/4 cup flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Use an electric hand mixer on medium speed and mix just until well blended.
- Place baking soda into a small ramekin and add vinegar then stir to combine. It should fizz. Pour this mixture into the batter and mix until well blended. Use a spatula to fold in diced apples.
- Heat a large non-stick pan over medium/low heat and add oil.
- Fill a shallow bowl with 1/2 cup flour. Add batter a heaping tablespoon at a time. Sprinkle flour generously over the top then gently lift pancake and pat from one hand to another to remove excess flour.
- Sauté in hot oil over medium/low heat about 3 minutes per side. Flip when starting to form tiny bubbles on top. Transfer to a platter and serve warm with your favorite topping such as jam and sour cream.