If you have a soft spot for comforting desserts that feel like a big, warm hug, then you absolutely must try this Zapekanka (Ukrainian Cheesecake) Recipe. This delightful dish combines creamy cottage cheese with subtle hints of lemon zest and vanilla, creating a subtly sweet and slightly tangy treat that’s both rustic and refined. It’s perfect for breakfast, a soothing afternoon snack, or a light dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds. The magic lies in its simple ingredients coming together to form a golden, fluffy cheesecake that melts in your mouth with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting these ingredients together is a breeze, and each one plays a key role in turning ordinary components into the extraordinary Zapekanka (Ukrainian Cheesecake) Recipe. From the creamy cottage cheese that forms the base, to the eggs that add richness and structure, you’ll find that these essentials offer both simplicity and depth of flavor.
- 2 cups (500g) cottage cheese or farmer’s cheese: The heart of the dish; make sure it’s well-drained for the best texture.
- 2 large eggs: Provide moisture and hold the cheesecake together beautifully.
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering.
- ¼ cup (60ml) sour cream or plain yogurt: Brings tenderness and a slight tang to balance the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm aroma that complements the cheese perfectly.
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda: Helps achieve a light and airy texture.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- ½ cup (75g) raisins (optional): For a touch of natural sweetness and chewiness.
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional): Adds brightness and freshness that elevates this dish.
- 2 tablespoons butter: For greasing the pan to prevent sticking and add subtle richness to the crust edges.
- Powdered sugar (optional): A light dusting on top to add elegance and a gentle sweetness.
How to Make Zapekanka (Ukrainian Cheesecake) Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). This ensures that when your batter is ready, it will bake evenly and develop that beautiful golden top we all look forward to in a cheesecake.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a large bowl, mix together your cottage cheese, eggs, sugar, and sour cream or yogurt until well-blended. You want the texture to be smooth but still retain a bit of the cottage cheese’s characteristic curds for that authentic homemade feel. Stir in vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. If you’re feeling adventurous, fold in the raisins and fresh lemon zest at this stage. These little additions give your Zapekanka (Ukrainian Cheesecake) Recipe an extra layer of flavor and texture that’s simply irresistible.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish generously with butter. This not only prevents sticking but also creates a delicate, buttery rim around your cheesecake when baked. Pour the batter into the dish and smooth the surface gently with a spatula.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop your baking dish into the oven and bake for about 30 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it bakes: you’re looking for a golden brown top and a center that springs back when lightly pressed. A toothpick inserted in the middle should come out clean. This is the sign that your Zapekanka (Ukrainian Cheesecake) Recipe is perfectly cooked through but still tender and moist inside.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow your cheesecake to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes. This helps it set so it slices beautifully. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Before serving, consider dusting with powdered sugar for a delicate touch of sweetness and a pretty presentation.
How to Serve Zapekanka (Ukrainian Cheesecake) Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of fresh sour cream will enhance the natural flavors without overpowering the delicacy. Fresh berries or a drizzle of honey also complement the gentle tanginess of the cottage cheese beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Zapekanka (Ukrainian Cheesecake) Recipe pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of black tea or coffee. For a breakfast or brunch, add fresh fruit salad or a small scoop of yogurt on the side to bring a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in small ramekins topped with a touch of fruit compote or a sprinkle of toasted nuts. This presentation is perfect for impressing guests or turning a humble dish into a charming centerpiece on your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Zapekanka stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a superb make-ahead option for busy mornings or unexpected guests. Keep it chilled to preserve its creamy texture and freshness.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, wrap the cooled cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It freezes well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
To enjoy leftovers warm, reheat gently in a low oven or microwave. Warming helps bring back that fresh-baked feeling and revives the cozy aroma that makes Zapekanka so special.
FAQs
Can I use ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese?
Ricotta can be a substitute, but it’s a bit creamier and smoother than cottage cheese, so the texture of the Zapekanka might change slightly. If using ricotta, make sure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
While the traditional Zapekanka (Ukrainian Cheesecake) Recipe relies heavily on dairy, you could experiment with plant-based yogurts and cheeses. The texture and flavor will be different, but it might still yield a tasty alternative.
Why do I need to add baking soda?
Baking soda helps the cheesecake rise slightly and creates a lighter texture. Without it, the Zapekanka might turn out denser and less fluffy.
Can I add other dried fruits or nuts?
Absolutely! Try chopped dried apricots, cranberries, or even walnuts to personalize your cheesecake. Just be mindful of balancing added moist ingredients so as not to affect baking time.
What is the best way to serve Zapekanka for breakfast?
Serve it warm with a spoonful of sour cream or honey on top, alongside fresh fruit and a strong cup of tea or coffee. It offers a satisfying and nutritious morning boost.
Final Thoughts
This Zapekanka (Ukrainian Cheesecake) Recipe truly is a comforting classic that proves simple ingredients, when treated lovingly, can shine like a star. Whether you’re sharing it with family at breakfast or serving it as a light dessert, it carries that special homemade charm that warms the heart. Give it a try and let it become one of your favorite cozy treats to bake and enjoy again and again.
Print
Zapekanka (Ukrainian Cheesecake) Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Ukrainian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Zapekanka is a traditional Ukrainian baked cheesecake featuring creamy cottage or farmer’s cheese combined with eggs, sugar, and sour cream. Lightly flavored with vanilla and optionally enhanced with raisins and lemon zest, this comforting dessert is baked until golden and offers a slightly textured, moist cheese filling. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delicate dessert.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups (500g) cottage cheese or farmer’s cheese (drained if wet)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- ¼ cup (60ml) sour cream or plain yogurt
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (75g) raisins (optional)
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
For the Baking Dish
- 2 tablespoons butter (for greasing the pan)
For Serving
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the optimal baking temperature before the cheesecake goes in.
- Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, sugar, sour cream (or yogurt), vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Blend these ingredients until the mixture is smooth but retains a bit of texture from the cheese. Carefully fold in the raisins and lemon zest if you are using them to add fruity and citrus notes.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish thoroughly with butter to prevent sticking. Pour the cheesecake batter into the dish and use a spatula to smooth the top evenly.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes. The cheesecake is done when the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating it’s fully set.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cheesecake to cool in the baking dish for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Before slicing, dust with powdered sugar if desired to add a touch of sweetness and an attractive finish.
Notes
- Make sure the cottage cheese is well drained to avoid excess moisture in the cheesecake.
- You can substitute sour cream with plain yogurt depending on taste preference.
- Raisins and lemon zest are optional but add wonderful flavor dimensions.
- Allowing the cheesecake to cool completely ensures better slicing without crumbling.
- For a richer flavor, use farmer’s cheese if available as it tends to be denser and creamier.
