Name: Cheese Blintzes
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Eastern European
Ingredients: 2 large eggs; 1 1/3 cups milk; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled; 1 lb farmer’s cheese; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled; Butter and vegetable oil, for frying; Sour cream; Fresh fruit or berries; Jam or preserves; Honey; Confectioners’ sugar

Why You’ll Love Cheese Blintzes Recipe

These blintzes strike the perfect balance between tender crepes and a rich, lightly sweet cheese filling. They’re versatile enough to serve for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. The make-ahead option makes them convenient for busy mornings, and the customizable toppings let you tailor each serving to your taste. Their crisp exterior and creamy interior make every bite satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 large eggs
1⅓ cups milk (any kind)
2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup all-purpose flour, spooned into measuring cup and leveled-off
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
1 lb farmer’s cheese ((see note))
1 large egg
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
Butter and vegetable oil, for frying
Sour cream
Fresh fruit or berries
Jam or preserves
Honey
Confectioners’ sugar

Directions

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. Add sugar and salt, then gradually whisk in the flour until the batter is lump-free. Stir in the melted butter and let the batter rest at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes.

Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and lightly butter it. Pour about 1/3 cup of batter into the pan, swirling to coat the bottom evenly. Cook for 1½ to 2 minutes until the top is set and edges lift easily. Flip and cook the other side for 20 to 30 seconds. Transfer to a plate and repeat with the remaining batter, stacking the crepes.

In a separate bowl, combine the farmer’s cheese, egg, sugar, salt, cinnamon, vanilla, and melted butter. Mix until smooth and creamy.

To assemble, place about 3 tablespoons of filling near the bottom of each crepe. Fold the bottom edge over the filling, fold in the sides, and roll into a compact rectangle. Repeat with remaining crepes and filling. If needed, seal with a bit of beaten egg.

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a mix of butter and oil. Place the blintzes seam-side down and cook for about 2 minutes per side until golden and crisp.

Serve warm, topped with confectioners’ sugar, sour cream, fruit, or jam as desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

For a different flavor, try adding lemon zest or raisins to the cheese filling. You can substitute ricotta or cottage cheese for farmer’s cheese for a softer texture. For a savory twist, reduce the sugar and add herbs or sautéed vegetables. You can also experiment with toppings like caramelized apples, berry compote, or chocolate drizzle.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover blintzes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to restore their crispness, or warm them in the oven at 325°F. Blintzes can also be frozen before or after frying; reheat directly from frozen in the oven until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make the crepe batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the batter for up to 24 hours before cooking.

What can I use instead of farmer’s cheese?

Ricotta or well-drained cottage cheese are great substitutes.

Why do I need to rest the batter?

Resting allows the flour to hydrate, resulting in more tender crepes.

Can I freeze blintzes?

Yes, they freeze well both before and after frying.

How do I keep crepes from tearing?

Make sure the batter is smooth and avoid overcooking, which can make them brittle.

Can I bake instead of fry the blintzes?

Yes, you can bake them, though frying gives a crispier texture.

What toppings go best with cheese blintzes?

Sour cream, fruit, jam, honey, or powdered sugar are all popular options.

Can I make them less sweet?

Simply reduce the sugar in the filling to suit your preference.

How do I prevent sticking when frying?

Use a combination of butter and oil and ensure the pan is properly heated.

Can I serve blintzes cold?

They are best served warm, but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.

Conclusion

Cheese blintzes are a timeless dish that combines delicate crepes with a rich, creamy filling. Whether served for a cozy breakfast or a sweet dessert, they offer a comforting and customizable treat that’s sure to please.

Cheese Blintzes