Zapekanka (Ukrainian Cheesecake)

Zapekanka is a traditional Ukrainian cheesecake, rich in flavor and made with cottage cheese or farmer’s cheese. Perfect for breakfast or as a dessert, it’s creamy with a slightly tangy sweetness. 

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)

2 tablespoons butter (for greasing the pan)

Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

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.

Use a hand mixer or food processor to blend the mixture until smooth but with some texture from the cottage cheese.

If using, gently fold in the raisins and lemon zest.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease a round or square 8x8-inch baking dish with butter.

Pour the cheesecake batter into the dish and smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 4: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Remove the zapekanka from the oven and let it cool in the dish for 10-15 minutes.

Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before slicing.

Optional Toppings:

Fresh berries or fruit preserves

Honey or maple syrup

A dollop of sour cream or whipped cream

Enjoy your Zapekanka as a delightful dessert or sweet breakfast treat!