Syrnyky - light and fluffy farmer’s cheese pancakes
The favorite Ukrainian breakfast and dessert recipe from my mother-in-law!
This post is a part of the series of family recipes that are cherished, loved, and passed through generations in my Belarusian and Ukrainian families. I cook each recipe in my kitchen and include detailed descriptions and photos of each step, as well as cooking secrets and tips. View all family recipes from Eastern Europe.
Syrnyky is a traditional Ukrainian recipe that became popular all over Eastern Europe. These pillowy cheese pancakes are the perfect breakfast or dessert and they just melt in your mouth! The name of the pancakes comes from the Ukrainian word “syr,” which translates as farmer’s cheese. The recipe originated in Ukrainian villages and soon became one of the most popular dishes in Ukraine and the neighboring countries. I grew up in Belarus, and syrnyky have always been one of my favorite meals. Syrnyky are traditionally served with sour cream and jam, but you can also serve them with fresh berries, condensed milk, or maple syrup. My husband recently shared a quote by a foreign journalist who visited Ukraine: “Ukraine taught me two things: that it is worth fighting for freedom and that sour cream belongs in every meal.” This is very true, and I highly recommend serving syrnyky with sour cream! :)
My Ukrainian mother-in-law cooks syrnyky every week, and with time, she developed a perfect recipe that includes a secret ingredient that makes syrnyky even tastier. I’ll share it with you below! I’ll also share my favorite farmer’s cheese brand that I buy in the U.S.
I hope you’ll try cooking these amazingly delicious pancakes in your family, and I’m sure they’ll become one of your favorite meals!
Below, you will find the step-by-step recipe instructions and photos of each step, which are available for paid subscribers. By upgrading to paid, you won’t only receive access to all family recipes from Eastern Europe, but will also allow me to continue my work and support both of my families who became refugees and whose recipes I share with you.