Zapekanka Ukrainian Cheesecake

Zapekanka, a traditional Ukrainian cheesecake, is a comforting and delicious dessert made with cottage cheese, eggs, and a hint of vanilla. Often enjoyed as a breakfast or a dessert, this soft, custardy cake is slightly sweet, with a rich texture that pairs perfectly with raisins. Easy to make, with just a few pantry ingredients, Zapekanka is a unique take on cheesecake that’s both satisfying and comforting.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cottage cheese
• 1 cup sugar
• 4 eggs
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese and sugar, mixing well until smooth.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix thoroughly after each addition.
4. Stir in the flour and baking soda, ensuring that the mixture is well combined and smooth.
5. Gently fold in the raisins, sour cream, and vanilla extract, making sure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the zapekanka cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

1. Fruit Options: Add fresh or dried fruits like blueberries, apricots, or currants to the batter for additional sweetness and texture.
2. Nutty Twist: Fold in some chopped walnuts or almonds for a crunchy contrast to the soft filling.
3. Zesty Lemon: For a tangy flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter for a citrusy touch.
4. Chocolate: Stir in some chocolate chips or cocoa powder for a rich, chocolatey version of zapekanka.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Zapekanka can be eaten cold, or you can warm it in the microwave or oven before serving. To reheat in the oven, cover with foil and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese?
   Yes, ricotta cheese can be used as a substitute for cottage cheese. The texture will be slightly different, but it will still work well in the recipe.
2. Can I use a different type of raisin?
   Yes, you can use golden raisins, sultanas, or currants in place of regular raisins for a different flavor and texture.
3. Is there a way to make this dessert gluten-free?
   Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend to replace the regular flour, or try using almond flour for a different texture.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Absolutely! Zapekanka can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld.
5. Can I freeze zapekanka?
   Yes, you can freeze zapekanka. After it has cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
6. Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
   Yes, low-fat cottage cheese can be used, but it may result in a slightly less rich texture.
7. Can I skip the raisins?
   Yes, you can omit the raisins if you prefer a simpler version of zapekanka, or substitute them with another dried fruit like cranberries or chopped dried apricots.
8. What can I serve with zapekanka?
   You can serve zapekanka with a dollop of sour cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
9. Can I make this without eggs?
   Yes, you can try replacing the eggs with a flaxseed meal or chia seed egg substitute to make it vegan. The texture might be slightly different but still delicious.
10. How do I know when zapekanka is fully baked?
    The zapekanka is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil and continue baking until set.

Conclusion

Zapekanka Ukrainian Cheesecake is a simple yet delicious dessert that showcases the rich flavor of cottage cheese in a moist, custardy form. With a subtle sweetness and a hint of vanilla, this traditional cheesecake is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. Its versatility allows you to experiment with various fruits, nuts, and flavors, while still maintaining its classic charm. Whether served warm or chilled, this delightful treat is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Print