Description
Creamy zapekanka celebrates Ukraine’s culinary heritage with its luscious cottage cheese base and delicate sweetness. Rustic yet elegant, this dessert invites you to savor a comforting slice of traditional Eastern European baking.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups farmers cheese (or ricotta/cottage cheese)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup semolina flour or all-purpose flour
Dairy and Sweet Components:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1/2 cup raisins or dried fruit, soaked and drained
Instructions
- Thoroughly prepare the kitchen workspace and gather all necessary equipment, ensuring a clean, organized environment for crafting this traditional Ukrainian delicacy.
- Carefully create a creamy mixture by whisking farmer’s cheese with sour cream until achieving a velvety, consistent texture without lumps.
- Gradually incorporate granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract into the cheese base, stirring methodically to maintain a smooth, homogeneous composition.
- Sift flour and salt directly into the mixture, gently folding to prevent overmixing and maintain a delicate, airy consistency.
- Optional: Delicately fold raisins or dried fruit throughout the batter, distributing them evenly to ensure balanced flavor in each bite.
- Select a round baking dish and generously coat with butter or cooking spray to prevent potential sticking and ensure effortless removal.
- Transfer the prepared batter into the prepared dish, using a spatula to create an even, leveled surface that promotes uniform baking.
- Position the dish in a preheated oven set at 350°F, allowing the zapekanka to transform into a golden, slightly puffy delicacy over 40-45 minutes.
- Verify doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should emerge clean with minimal moisture, indicating perfect baking.
- Remove from oven and allow the zapekanka to rest and stabilize, letting residual heat complete the cooking process and enhance its delicate texture.
- Slice and serve warm or at room temperature, accompanied by a dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of fruit preserves for an authentic Ukrainian experience.
Notes
- Swap farmer’s cheese with ricotta or cottage cheese for easier ingredient access.
- Add a pinch of lemon zest to brighten the flavor profile and enhance the creamy texture.
- Reduce sugar for a less sweet version, perfect for those watching their sugar intake.
- Toast raisins before adding to intensify their natural sweetness and prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Ukrainian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 50mg