Cheese Blintzes

Introduction

Blintzes are delicate, thin pancakes that are filled, rolled, and often pan-fried until golden brown. Their tender crepes, paired with creamy fillings like sweetened cheese or fruit, create a perfect balance of texture and flavor. Topped with sour cream, fruit compote, or a dusting of powdered sugar, blintzes are a versatile dish, often enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. They’re more than just food—they’re a nostalgic comfort wrapped in every bite.

Blintzes hold a special place in my memories. My first experience making them was with my grandmother, whose blintz-making skills were legendary. I still remember watching her expertly pour the batter into a hot pan, swirling it to create thin, even pancakes. The kitchen would fill with the comforting scent of browning butter, and once filled and fried, the golden blintzes were pure magic. Biting into that first blintz—crispy edges giving way to creamy, sweet filling—was a moment of pure joy.

Blintzes are perfect for any occasion when you’re craving something cozy and a little decadent. They’re satisfying on their own, but when topped with fresh berries, a drizzle of honey, or even a scoop of jam, they become a dish that’s simply unforgettable. Whether shared with loved ones or enjoyed as a quiet indulgence, blintzes are sure to bring warmth and happiness to every table.

Perfect for:

• Special breakfasts or brunches
• Holiday celebrations
• Comfort food lovers
• Kid-friendly desserts
• Vegetarian meals

Why You’ll Love This Cheese Blintzes

Here’s why Cheese Blintzes with Sweet Berry Sauce will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Rich and Creamy: The filling is perfectly balanced between creamy and slightly tangy.
• Golden Perfection: Lightly pan-fried for crisp edges with a soft interior.
• Fruity Topping: Sweet berry sauce adds brightness and balances the richness of the blintzes.
• Customizable: Adapt with different fillings or toppings for endless variations.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare ahead and cook fresh when ready to serve.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings (12 blintzes)
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 10g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

For the Crepes:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 ¼ cups milk
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Cheese Filling:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese (or farmer’s cheese)
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Pinch of salt

Sweet Berry Sauce:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water

Ingredient Highlights:

• Ricotta Cheese: Light and creamy, perfect for the filling.
• Lemon Juice: Adds brightness to balance the sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of both the crepes and filling.
• Mixed Berries: Provide natural sweetness and vibrant color for the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Crepe Batter:

1. Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, milk, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla until smooth. Let the batter rest for 15 minutes to allow bubbles to settle.

Cook the Crepes:

2. Heat the Pan: Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with oil or butter.
3. Cook Crepes: Pour about ¼ cup of batter into the pan, swirling to coat evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the edges lift slightly and the underside is golden. Flip and cook for another 30 seconds. Transfer to a plate. Repeat with the remaining batter.

Prepare the Cheese Filling:

4. Mix Filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta, cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and salt. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Fill and Roll the Blintzes:

5. Add Filling: Place 2 tablespoons of the cheese filling in the center of each crepe. Fold the sides in and roll up tightly, similar to a burrito.

Cook the Blintzes:

6. Pan-Fry Blintzes: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little butter or oil. Cook the filled blintzes, seam-side down, until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Make the Berry Sauce:

7. Cook Berries: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the berries, sugar, and lemon juice. Simmer until the berries break down, about 5 minutes.
8. Thicken Sauce: Add the cornstarch mixture and cook for another 1-2 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Serve:

9. Plate Blintzes: Arrange the blintzes on a serving plate, drizzle with the berry sauce, and garnish with fresh berries or powdered sugar if desired.

How to Serve Cheese Blintzes

Cheese Blintzes with Sweet Berry Sauce can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:

• Classic Brunch: Serve with a dollop of sour cream and fresh fruit.
• Dessert Style: Top with whipped cream and a dusting of powdered sugar.
• Holiday Spread: Add to a festive brunch buffet alongside fruit salads and pastries.
• Family Dinner: Serve as a sweet ending to a family meal.

Additional Tips for Cheese Blintzes

Follow these tips for the best Cheese Blintzes with Sweet Berry Sauce:

• Rest the Batter: Allowing the crepe batter to rest improves texture and prevents tearing.
• Thin Crepes: Ensure the batter is spread thinly for delicate, pliable crepes.
• Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can cause the blintzes to burst during cooking.
• Cook in Batches: Fry the blintzes in small batches to ensure even browning.
• Use Fresh Berries: For a brighter, fresher flavor, use fresh berries when available.

Recipe Variations for Cheese Blintzes

Here are 10 variations to customize your Cheese Blintzes with Sweet Berry Sauce:

1. Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate over the blintzes.
2. Cinnamon-Spiced Filling: Mix cinnamon or nutmeg into the cheese filling.
3. Savory Blintzes: Skip the sugar in the filling and serve with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
4. Honey Drizzle: Substitute honey for berry sauce for a simple, natural sweetness.
5. Nutty Topping: Sprinkle chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans on top for added crunch.
6. Lemon Curd: Serve with a dollop of lemon curd for a citrusy twist.
7. Apricot Sauce: Swap the berry sauce for a homemade apricot or peach compote.
8. Banana and Nutella: Add sliced bananas and a Nutella drizzle for a decadent dessert.
9. Greek Yogurt: Top with Greek yogurt for a creamy, tangy balance to the sweetness.
10. Strawberry Shortcake Style: Layer with whipped cream and macerated strawberries.

Freezing and Storage for Cheese Blintzes

• Freezing: Place the assembled (but uncooked) blintzes on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen until golden and heated through.
• Storage: Refrigerate cooked blintzes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to restore crispness.

Special Equipment for Cheese Blintzes

Here are some items that make preparing Cheese Blintzes easier:

1. Non-Stick Skillet: Essential for cooking crepes without sticking.
2. Whisk: Helps create a smooth crepe batter without lumps.
3. Blender (optional): For even smoother crepe batter.
4. Offset Spatula: Ideal for flipping delicate crepes.
5. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures precise ingredient measurements.
6. Mixing Bowls: For preparing the batter and filling.
7. Small Saucepan: Perfect for making berry sauce.
8. Silicone Brush: Useful for lightly greasing the pan between crepes.
9. Cooling Rack: Allows crepes to cool without sticking together.
10. Serving Plate: Enhances presentation for a professional touch.

FAQ Section for Cheese Blintzes

1. Can I make the crepes ahead of time?
   Yes, crepes can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator, stacked with parchment paper between them.
2. What’s the best cheese for blintzes?
   Farmer’s cheese is traditional, but ricotta or cottage cheese work well too.
3. Can I use store-bought crepes?
   Yes, store-bought crepes can save time and still taste delicious.
4. Can I make the filling less sweet?
   Adjust the sugar to taste or use a sugar substitute for a lighter option.
5. Can I use frozen berries for the sauce?
   Absolutely! Frozen berries work just as well and are available year-round.
6. How do I prevent my crepes from tearing?
   Ensure the batter rests before cooking and handle the crepes gently.
7. Can I bake the blintzes instead of frying?
   Yes, place blintzes on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until golden.
8. Is this dish kid-friendly?
   Definitely! Kids love the sweet filling and fruity topping.
9. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour for the crepe batter.
10. How do I reheat leftover blintzes?
    Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

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Conclusion for Cheese Blintzes

Blintzes are a delightful and versatile breakfast or brunch option that combines the delicate, crepe-like wrapper with a rich, creamy filling. The perfect balance of textures—the crisp edges of the golden-brown exterior and the soft, velvety center—makes each bite an indulgent experience.

What sets blintzes apart is their endless customization potential. Whether you lean toward sweet flavors like fresh berries, powdered sugar, or a drizzle of maple syrup, or prefer savory toppings such as sautéed mushrooms, herbs, or sour cream, there’s a blintz variation for every palate.

Whether you’re serving them at a holiday brunch, preparing a cozy weekend breakfast, or looking for a make-ahead meal that still feels elegant, blintzes are sure to become a beloved part of your kitchen repertoire. I hope you enjoy experimenting with flavors and making this classic dish your own—don’t forget to share your creations with me! Enjoy every delicious forkful!