Nalysnyky with Sweet Cheese
Nalysnyky are delicate Ukrainian crepes, similar to thin pancakes, traditionally filled with a sweet or savory filling. This version features a creamy, sweet cottage cheese filling, perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a light meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 2 cups Milk
- 1 cup Water
- 8 large Eggs
- 4 tbsp Granulated sugar
- 0.25 tsp Salt
- 8 tbsp Butter, melted
- 32 oz Dry curd cottage cheese
- 2 large Egg yolks
- 6 tbsp Granulated sugar (for filling)
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp Sour cream
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
For the crepes: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, 4 tbsp sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, water, 8 eggs, and 4 tbsp melted butter.
💡 Tip: Ensure all ingredients for the batter are at room temperature for a smoother consistency. - 2
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, whisking continuously until a smooth, thin batter forms. Let the batter rest for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flour to fully hydrate.
- 3
For the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese, 2 egg yolks, 6 tbsp sugar, vanilla extract, and 2 tbsp sour cream. Mix well until smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk or sour cream.
💡 Tip: For an extra smooth filling, you can pulse the ingredients briefly in a food processor or blender. - 4
To cook the nalysnyky: Heat a lightly oiled non-stick skillet or crepe pan over medium heat. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the pan and swirl to create a thin, even layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown.
⏱️ 2-3 minutes per crepe - 5
Repeat with the remaining batter, lightly greasing the pan as needed. Stack the cooked nalysnyky on a plate.
💡 Tip: The first few crepes might be imperfect; they are often called 'practice crepes'. - 6
To assemble: Lay a crepe flat. Spread about 2-3 tablespoons of the sweet cheese filling evenly over the surface, leaving a small border. Fold the crepe in half, then in half again to form a triangle, or simply roll it up like a cigar.
- 7
Arrange the filled nalysnyky on a serving platter. You can serve them immediately, or for a slightly different texture, briefly bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
⏱️ 5-10 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure your pan is properly heated before adding batter for even cooking.
- ✓Don't overfill the nalysnyky, as it can make them difficult to fold or roll.
- ✓Leftover nalysnyky can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
🔄 Variations
- Add a tablespoon of lemon zest to the cheese filling for a brighter flavor.
- Serve with fresh berries, a drizzle of honey, or a dusting of powdered sugar.