If you have a soft spot for simple, comforting desserts that feel like a warm hug from home, then you are in for a treat with this Zapekanka (Ukrainian Cheesecake) Recipe. This delightful baked cheesecake is creamy yet light, with just the right touch of sweetness and a gentle tang that comes from using cottage cheese or farmer’s cheese. It’s a traditional Eastern European favorite that’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it a perfect dessert to share with family or friends anytime you want something a little special but uncomplicated.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first joyful step in making your Zapekanka (Ukrainian Cheesecake) Recipe come to life. Each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color, from the creamy cottage cheese to the subtle zing of lemon zest.
- 2 cups (500g) cottage cheese or farmer’s cheese: The star of the dish, providing the creamy, slightly tangy base that defines the cheesecake.
- 2 large eggs: These help bind the mixture and give the cheesecake its lovely structure.
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the natural flavor of the cheese.
- ¼ cup (60ml) sour cream or plain yogurt: Contributes moisture and a subtle tang, keeping the texture soft and luscious.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings a warm, inviting aroma that complements the creamy cheese beautifully.
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cheesecake rise gently, resulting in a light but dense texture.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and brightens the flavors.
- ½ cup (75g) raisins (optional): Provides little bursts of sweetness and chewiness for added texture.
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional): Adds a fresh, citrusy twist that elevates the overall flavor.
- 2 tablespoons butter (for greasing the pan): Ensures your cheesecake releases easily while adding a buttery touch to the base.
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional): A lovely finishing touch for an elegant presentation and a subtle sweetness on top.
How to Make Zapekanka (Ukrainian Cheesecake) Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). A properly preheated oven is key to ensuring the cheesecake cooks evenly and achieves that perfect golden top without drying out.
Step 2: 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 mostly smooth but still retains a bit of the cottage cheese’s texture—it’s that slight graininess that gives Zapekanka its unique charm. If you’re using raisins and lemon zest, gently fold them in at this stage to distribute those delightful bursts throughout the batter.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
Generously grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with the butter. This little step ensures your Zapekanka slides out easily once baked, with no stubborn sticking. Then pour the batter into the dish and smooth out the top so it bakes evenly.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is simply irresistible.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow your Zapekanka (Ukrainian Cheesecake) Recipe to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. If you’d like to dress it up a bit, dust the top lightly with powdered sugar before slicing. This cool-down time is important—it helps the cheesecake set perfectly so you get clean slices.
How to Serve Zapekanka (Ukrainian Cheesecake) Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes is a delightful way to personalize your Zapekanka. Fresh berries, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a drizzle of honey can add a pop of color and wonderful complementary flavors. If you’re feeling traditional, a dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of homemade jam can match the cheesecake’s rich creaminess beautifully.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake is versatile enough to serve as a breakfast treat or dessert. Pair it with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon break, or alongside fresh fruit salads or compotes to brighten the plate at your next brunch or dinner party.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not impress your guests by serving individual portions in small ramekins or mason jars? Layer your Zapekanka with fresh fruit or a sprinkle of granola for added texture and visual appeal. Alternatively, cut it into bite-sized cubes and serve as part of a dessert platter with a variety of sweets for a fun, shareable option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Zapekanka keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container to maintain its moisture and freshness. It’s just as delicious when enjoyed chilled or at room temperature the next day.
Freezing
If you want to make this dessert ahead of time or save some for later, you can freeze Zapekanka. Wrap individual slices or the whole cheesecake securely with plastic wrap and then with foil to avoid freezer burn. It should stay good for up to two months, letting you enjoy this Ukrainian classic whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
To enjoy your Zapekanka warm, reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or place the whole portion in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 to 15 minutes. Just be careful not to overheat, as this could dry out the cheesecake. Warming it slightly brings out the creaminess and aroma beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use cream cheese instead of cottage cheese?
While cream cheese has a smoother texture and richer flavor, traditional Zapekanka relies on cottage or farmer’s cheese for its characteristic light, slightly grainy texture. Using cream cheese will give you a different but still delicious version, just a little denser and less tangy.
Is it possible to make Zapekanka gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses no flour or wheat-based ingredients. Just make sure any additional items you add, like raisins or toppings, are free of gluten.
Why add baking soda to the recipe?
Baking soda helps the cheesecake rise gently, creating a light, tender crumb rather than a dense block. It also balances the acidity of the sour cream or yogurt, resulting in a smoother texture.
Can I substitute raisins with other dried fruits?
Absolutely! Dried cranberries, chopped apricots, or even finely chopped dates are wonderful alternatives to raisins and bring their own unique sweetness and chewiness to the dish.
How should I serve leftover Zapekanka?
Leftovers taste great chilled or warmed. Try topping slices with a spoonful of fruit preserves, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for added texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Zapekanka (Ukrainian Cheesecake) Recipe is such a heartwarming dessert to keep in your recipe box. Its simplicity, comforting flavors, and versatility make it perfect for any occasion, from casual family breakfasts to festive gatherings. I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing this gem as much as I do. Give it a try, and you’ll soon discover why it holds a special place in the hearts of many!
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 cheesecake known for its creamy texture and subtle sweetness. Made with cottage or farmer’s cheese, eggs, and a hint of lemon zest and raisins for added flavor, this baked dessert is simple yet satisfying. It’s lightly sweetened, enriched with sour cream or yogurt, and baked to a golden perfection, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture
- 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 Baking
- 2 tablespoons butter (for greasing the pan)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the correct temperature while you prepare the batter.
- 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 the mixture until it is smooth but still retains some texture from the cottage cheese. If desired, gently fold in the raisins and lemon zest to add bursts of sweetness and citrus aroma.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish thoroughly with butter to prevent sticking. Pour the prepared cheesecake batter into the dish and smooth the top evenly with a spatula.
- Bake the Zapekanka: Place the 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 into the center comes out clean, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool in the baking dish for 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Before slicing, dust the top with powdered sugar if you like for an elegant finish.
Notes
- You can substitute sour cream with plain yogurt to add a slight tang to the cheesecake.
- Draining the cottage cheese well will prevent excess moisture, ensuring a firmer texture.
- Feel free to omit raisins and lemon zest for a plainer version or customize with your favorite dried fruits.
- Zapekanka can be served warm or chilled, making it versatile for different preferences.
- Use a non-stick or well-greased baking dish to easily remove the cheesecake after baking.
