If you’ve ever dreamed of a dessert that feels like a warm hug from your grandma’s kitchen, the Zapekanka (Ukrainian Cheesecake) Recipe is exactly what you need to try. This lovingly baked treat combines creamy farmer’s cheese with a hint of sweetness and a gentle crumb that’s comforting yet delightfully fresh. It’s a classic Slavic dessert that never fails to impress, perfect for an afternoon tea or a cozy family gathering. Once you make this, you’ll see why it holds a special place at the hearts and tables of many Ukrainian homes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Zapekanka (Ukrainian Cheesecake) Recipe lies in its simplicity, featuring humble ingredients that come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Each component plays a role: the creamy farmer’s cheese provides the soft, tangy base; eggs bind the ingredients and add richness; and semolina gives it that signature tender crumb.
- 2 cups farmer’s cheese: This is the star ingredient, giving the cheesecake its creamy texture and tangy flavor—ricotta works as a smooth substitute.
- 3 large eggs: They ensure the batter binds together beautifully and add that lovely golden color after baking.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds moisture and a balanced tartness to the cheesecake, keeping it from feeling dry.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens just enough to complement the cheese without overwhelming its natural flavor.
- 1/4 cup semolina or all-purpose flour: Helps set the cheesecake with a delicate firmness; semolina adds a subtle nutty texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, making each bite more vibrant.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the cheesecake with warmth and a fragrant sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional): Brings a fresh, citrus brightness that lifts the overall flavor.
- 1/3 cup raisins (optional): For those who love little bursts of sweetness and chewiness in every bite.
- Butter for greasing the pan: Prevents sticking and adds a subtle richness to the crust edges.
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional): A pretty finishing touch that also adds a delicate sweetness.
How to Make Zapekanka (Ukrainian Cheesecake) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s a crucial step to ensure your cheesecake bakes evenly. While the oven warms up, generously grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter to keep that delicious cheesecake from sticking and aid in getting those perfectly golden edges.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the farmer’s cheese, eggs, sour cream, and sugar until everything blends into a smooth, creamy batter. Adding semolina or flour here will help give your cheesecake structure. Don’t forget the salt, vanilla extract, and if you’re feeling adventurous, a little lemon zest for brightness. This mixture is the heart of the Zapekanka (Ukrainian Cheesecake) Recipe—nothing fancy, just simple ingredients made magic.
Step 3: Add Raisins (Optional)
If you like a burst of sweetness and texture, gently fold in raisins now. They plump up beautifully during baking, giving little surprises in every bite. But if you prefer it classic and pure, you can skip this step without missing out on any deliciousness.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pour the mixture into your buttered dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is just set and the top has turned a lovely light golden color. It’s tempting to dig in immediately, but let it cool slightly to let the flavors settle and the texture finish setting.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
For a charming finishing touch, dust with powdered sugar to add a delicate sweetness and make it look irresistible. Serve warm or chilled, both ways are delightful and showcase the Zapekanka (Ukrainian Cheesecake) Recipe in full glory.
How to Serve Zapekanka (Ukrainian Cheesecake) Recipe
Garnishes
One of the best parts about Zapekanka is how well it pairs with simple garnishes. A dusting of powdered sugar is classic and elegant, but fresh berries or a spoonful of fruit preserves can bring a lovely fresh contrast to the richness of the cheesecake. For a nutty twist, sprinkle some toasted chopped nuts on top right before serving.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake is versatile. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent dessert experience. If you’re enjoying it during breakfast or brunch, a cup of strong black tea or coffee complements the flavors perfectly, balancing the creamy richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, consider slicing Zapekanka into neat squares and serving on decorative plates with a few fresh mint leaves for a pop of green. You can also layer it with fruit compote in clear glasses for individual parfait-style servings that make a stunning presentation and double as a crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Zapekanka keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors deepen as it cools, so leftovers can be even tastier than fresh slices. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other fridge odors.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy Zapekanka later, you can freeze it! Wrap the cooled cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to protect it from freezer burn. It will keep well for about one month. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or pop the whole baking dish in a low-temperature oven (around 300°F or 150°C) until heated through. Warm Zapekanka tastes heavenly, but it’s equally delicious cold straight from the fridge!
FAQs
What can I substitute for farmer’s cheese?
If you can’t find farmer’s cheese, ricotta is an excellent substitute. Make sure it’s well-drained to avoid a watery batter. You can also use cottage cheese blended smooth if needed.
Is semolina necessary in the recipe?
Semolina helps to give Zapekanka its unique texture, but all-purpose flour is an easy alternative. For gluten-free options, cornstarch or gluten-free flour blends work well too.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
This Zapekanka (Ukrainian Cheesecake) Recipe traditionally includes dairy and eggs, so it’s not vegan. However, you might experiment with vegan cream cheese, plant-based yogurt, and egg replacers, though the texture and flavor will be different.
How long does it take to bake Zapekanka?
Baking time is about 45 to 50 minutes at 350°F (175°C). The top should be lightly golden and the center set but still moist—avoid overbaking to keep it tender.
Can Zapekanka be served for breakfast?
Absolutely! Zapekanka is a popular breakfast and brunch dish in Ukraine. Its mild sweetness and creamy texture make it perfect with a cup of tea or coffee to start your day.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with a dish as timeless and comforting as the Zapekanka (Ukrainian Cheesecake) Recipe. It’s easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and results in a dessert that feels homemade in the best possible way. Whether it’s your first time diving into Ukrainian cuisine or a new spin on your dessert rotation, this cheesecake will quickly become a beloved favorite. Give it a try and watch how everyone asks for seconds!
Print
Zapekanka (Ukrainian Cheesecake) Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Ukrainian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Zapekanka is a traditional Ukrainian baked cheesecake made with farmer’s cheese or ricotta, combined with eggs, sour cream, and a hint of vanilla. This creamy and mildly sweet dessert is tender with a gently golden crust, often enhanced with raisins and lemon zest for extra flavor. It’s an easy-to-make, comforting treat perfect served warm or chilled, dusted with powdered sugar or alongside fresh fruit preserves.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups farmer’s cheese (or well-drained ricotta)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup semolina or all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- 1/3 cup raisins (optional)
- Butter for greasing the pan
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a medium-sized baking dish generously with butter to prevent sticking and impart flavor.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the farmer’s cheese, eggs, sour cream, sugar, semolina or flour, salt, vanilla extract, and lemon zest if using. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend everything until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add Raisins: Carefully fold in the raisins if you choose to include them. This adds bursts of sweetness to the cheesecake.
- Transfer and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula for even cooking. Place in the preheated oven, baking for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the custard is set in the center and the top has a light golden color.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar if desired before slicing. Serve warm for a gooey texture or chilled for a firmer slice.
Notes
- You can substitute ricotta cheese for farmer’s cheese depending on availability or preference.
- For a gluten-free version, replace semolina with gluten-free flour or cornstarch to maintain texture without gluten.
- This dessert is versatile and delicious plain or served with fruit preserves or fresh berries for added flavor.
