If your idea of breakfast bliss involves something warm, golden, and slightly sweet, you’re in for a tasty treat. Katie, Comfort Food podcast host Kelly Rizzo, and Julie Smolyansky — CEO of Lifeway Foods — are all fans of an Eastern European classic called syrniki. They’re soft, cheesy pancakes made with rich Lifeway Farmer Cheese that crisp up perfectly in a buttery skillet. Think of them as a cross between a fluffy pancake and a creamy cheesecake, with just the right touch of sugary goodness. (And they’ve got 15 grams of protein in a half-cup serving, to boot.)
In this lick-your-lips recipe, Katie and her kitchen pals bring their flair to tradition, blending simple ingredients like farm-fresh cheese, egg, and flour into little rounds of joy. Optional additions like raisins or vanilla make them even more irresistible. Fry them until they’re golden brown on the outside, then top with sour cream, jam, or a drizzle of honey for the ultimate finishing touch.
Whether you’re craving a cozy weekend brunch for one or looking to impress the family at the breakfast table, syrniki is the kind of comforting dish that makes everyone reach for seconds.
Syrniki (with Lifeway Farmer Cheese)
Serving size: 8-10
Ingredients
- 1 lb. (16 oz.) Lifeway Farmer Cheese
- 1 large egg
- 3–4 Tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- ½ cup all-purpose flour, divided
- 2–3 tbsp raisins (optional)
- Butter or neutral oil for frying
Instructions
- Mix cheese, egg, sugar, vanilla, and salt in a bowl.
- Add about ¼ cup flour. Fold in raisins if using.
- Shape into 2.5 to 3″ patties and dredge in remaining flour.
- Fry over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Serve warm with sour cream, jam, honey, or fresh berries.
- Optional: dust with powdered sugar.
