There’s something undeniably comforting about the rich aroma that fills my kitchen when I’m whipping up a batch of cheese blintzes. With their delicate exterior and luscious filling of cream cheese and ricotta, these delightful treats remind me of simpler times spent with family during brunch on lazy Sunday mornings. I often find myself gravitating toward this recipe, especially when the urge for something warm and satisfying strikes.
What makes this dish even more special is its versatility. Whether I’m drizzling them with a vibrant fresh berry sauce or a rich, optional rum-infused prune sauce, each bite transports me back to festive gatherings that were always filled with laughter and joy. These cheese blintzes aren’t just a dish—they’re an invitation to create memories around the table, offering a blend of indulgence and nostalgia that turns any meal into a celebration. If you’re ready to impress your loved ones (or just treat yourself), let’s dive into making these decadent cheese blintzes together!
Why will you love Cheese Blintz?
Comforting, indulgent goodness: These cheese blintzes deliver a rich and creamy filling that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.
Easy to make: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip these up at home.
Versatile serving options: Drizzle them with a fresh berry sauce for a burst of flavor, or try the optional rum-infused prune sauce for a unique twist!
Perfect for gatherings: Whether it’s a family brunch or a festive party, these blintzes are sure to impress your guests and spark conversations.
Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the batter in advance and save time on busy mornings—simply cook them when you’re ready to enjoy!
Cheese Blintz Ingredients
For the Batter
- Large Eggs – Provide structure to the blintz batter; fresh eggs yield the best results.
- Milk – Adds moisture and creates a tender pancake; use whole or 2% for best flavor.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness; can substitute with table salt.
- Freshly Grated Nutmeg – Imparts a warm spice note that elevates the filling; ground nutmeg can be used in a pinch.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the batter lightly without graininess; unsweetened cocoa powder can substitute for a unique twist.
- All-Purpose Flour – Serves as the base for the blintz batter; provides structure. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend.
- Butter (melted) – Adds richness and prevents sticking; coconut oil or ghee can be used as alternatives.
For the Filling
- Cream Cheese (softened) – Core filling ingredient providing creaminess; Neufchâtel can be used for a lighter option.
- Powdered Sugar (additional) – Sweetens the cream cheese filling; adjust for desired sweetness.
- Drained Ricotta – Adds texture and body to the filling; important to drain to avoid excess moisture.
- Zest of ½ Lemon – Adds freshness and zing, enhancing the overall flavor; orange zest can be a substitute.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – Contributes a sweet aroma and depth to the filling; substitute with almond extract for variation.
- Pinch of Kosher Salt – Balances flavors in filling.
For the Topping
- Fresh Berries (blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries) – Adds freshness and acidity; any seasonal berries work well.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the berries slightly; adjust to taste depending on berry sweetness.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens the berry topping; lime juice can be used for a twist.
For Optional Prune Sauce
- Prunes (chopped) – Adds a unique flavor to the sauce; dried figs can be a tasty substitution.
- Rum – Adds depth to the prune sauce; omit for a non-alcoholic version.
- Granulated Sugar (for prune sauce) – Sweetens the sauce; adjust to taste.
- Water – Used in the prune sauce to achieve the right consistency.
For Serving
- Fresh Berries (for serving) – Extra garnish for a colorful presentation, enhancing the dish visually.
How to Make Cheese Blintz
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Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together large eggs, milk, kosher salt, freshly grated nutmeg, powdered sugar, all-purpose flour, and melted butter until smooth and well-combined.
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Cook Pancakes: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and grease lightly. Pour in approximately ¼ cup of batter to form thin pancakes. Cook until the edges lift easily and the surface is bubbly, about 2 minutes. Flip and cook for another minute, then transfer to a plate.
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Make the Filling: In a separate bowl, mix softened cream cheese, drained ricotta, additional powdered sugar, lemon zest, pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of kosher salt until creamy and well-blended.
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Assemble Blintzes: Place a spoonful of the cheese filling in the center of each pancake. Fold the sides over the filling to form a rectangle, ensuring the filling is enclosed.
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Cook the Blintzes: In the same pan, sauté the folded blintzes for 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and slightly crisped.
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Prepare Berry Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine fresh berries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes until the berries are soft and juicy.
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Make Optional Prune Sauce: In another saucepan, mix chopped prunes, rum (if using), granulated sugar, water, and lemon juice. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Serve: Plate the blintzes, drizzling them with the berry sauce and adding a few fresh berries on top for garnish.
Optional: Serve drizzled with whipped cream for a decadent finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing these delightful cheese blintzes ahead of time can save you precious moments on busy mornings! You can make the batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator, ensuring a tender result when cooked. Additionally, the filling can be prepared and stored for up to 3 days—just keep it covered in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the pancakes and fill them with the prepped mixture, then sauté until golden. Don’t forget to whip up the berry sauce just before serving for that fresh burst of flavor!
Expert Tips for Cheese Blintz
- Drain Ricotta: Make sure to drain the ricotta overnight to avoid a watery filling, which can ruin the perfect cheese blintz texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh eggs and dairy for the best flavor, ensuring your cheese blintz are as delicious as they can be.
- Thin Pancakes: Aim for thin pancakes when cooking; they should be delicate enough to fold without breaking and enhance the overall flavor.
- Watch the Cooking Time: Don’t rush the cooking process; allow the blintzes to achieve a golden crisp on both sides for the best experience.
- Adjust Sauce Sweetness: Taste the berry and prune sauces and adjust sweetness to match your preference; this can elevate the dish significantly.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to play with the filling by swapping in different extracts or topping variations for a unique cheese blintz every time!
What to Serve with Cheese Blintz?
Elevate your delightful breakfast spread or brunch gathering with these perfect pairing ideas that complement every rich and creamy bite.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits lightly tossed with citrus juice adds a refreshing balance to your indulgent blintzes.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzling warm maple syrup over cheese blintzes enhances their sweetness while adding a rich, comforting flavor profile.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top creates a luscious contrast that transforms each bite into creamy heaven.
- Savory Scrambled Eggs: Light, fluffy scrambled eggs seasoned with herbs provide a savory counterpoint to the sweet flavors of the blintzes.
- Greek Yogurt: A side of tangy Greek yogurt not only balances sweetness but also adds creaminess and a protein boost for a satisfying meal.
- Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, pairs beautifully, complementing the flavors without overpowering them.
- Sparkling Water: Effervescent sparkling water with a slice of lemon refreshes the palate and cleanses the taste buds between bites.
- Optional Rum-Infused Prune Sauce: Drizzle this rich sauce over the cheese blintzes for a sophisticated touch that combines sweetness and a hint of warmth.
- Cheese Platter: Serve alongside a selection of mild cheeses that can be enjoyed between bites of the sweet blintzes, enhancing the brunch experience.
How to Store and Freeze Cheese Blintz
Fridge: Store cooked cheese blintzes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked assembled blintzes by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be kept for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat frozen blintzes, cook them from frozen in a skillet over low heat for about 8-10 minutes, flipping occasionally until heated through.
Make-Ahead Tip: The batter can also be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, allowing for fresh-made cheese blintz any time!
Cheese Blintz Variations
Customize your cheese blintzes to suit your taste and dietary needs, enhancing every delightful bite.
- Dairy-Free: Use almond or coconut milk and a nut-based cheese to create a delicious dairy-free filling.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a similar texture without the gluten.
- Zesty Twist: Swap lemon zest for orange or lime zest for a refreshing twist that brightens the flavors profoundly.
- Richer Filling: Replace cream cheese with mascarpone for an ultra-creamy, richer filling that melts in your mouth.
- Add Spice: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom into the batter for a warm, aromatic spice that adds depth.
- Fruit Infusion: Mix in some fresh berries or bananas into the filling before assembling for a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold chopped walnuts or hazelnuts into the cheese mixture for a satisfying crunch against the creamy filling.
- Vegetarian Delight: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or caramelized onions to the cheese filling for a savory, veggie-packed alternative.
Cheese Blintz Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ingredients for the cheese filling?
Absolutely! For the best creaminess in your cheese filling, use fresh, high-quality cream cheese and ricotta. Look for cream cheese that’s well refrigerated and labeled as “full-fat” for optimal texture and taste. The ricotta should be drained properly; if it’s watery or has excess moisture, it can make your filling soggy. It’s a good idea to strain the ricotta using cheesecloth for a couple of hours before mixing.
What is the best way to store leftover cheese blintzes?
Very! Once you’ve enjoyed your cheese blintzes, simply place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them—this should keep them good for about 3 days. When you’re ready to eat them again, pop them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side to get that lovely crispiness back. If you’re making them in bulk, you can freeze them!
Can I freeze cheese blintzes after assembling them?
Yes, you can! To freeze, carefully arrange your assembled uncooked blintzes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. This process prevents them from sticking together. After they’re frozen, transfer the blintzes into a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook, avoid thawing them; simply cook them in a skillet on low heat for about 8-10 minutes, flipping them occasionally.
What should I do if my pancakes are too thick?
No worries! If you find that your pancake batter is too thick, you can easily thin it out by adding a little more milk—about a tablespoon at a time—until you reach the desired consistency. Make sure to mix well after each addition to avoid lumps. Remember, the right consistency is key for that delicate blintz texture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you’re hosting friends with dietary restrictions, there are alternatives you can consider. For a gluten-free blintz, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. If you’re cooking for anyone with dairy allergies, you can replace the cream cheese and ricotta with dairy-free cream cheese alternatives or even use silken tofu blended until smooth. And always check that the sugar options you use are suitable for your guests’ dietary needs.
How can I ensure my cheese blintzes are perfectly golden?
Great question! Achieving that beautiful golden brown color comes down to temperature control and cooking time. Use a medium heat and give the blintzes about 3-4 minutes on each side, allowing them to crisp up nicely. Also, make sure your pan is adequately heated before you start cooking, and don’t overcrowd the pan, which can lower the temperature and lead to uneven cooking!
Irresistible Cheese Blintz with Berry Bliss Topping
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together large eggs, milk, kosher salt, freshly grated nutmeg, powdered sugar, all-purpose flour, and melted butter until smooth.
- Heat a non-stick pan and grease lightly. Pour in approximately ¼ cup of batter to form thin pancakes. Cook until edges lift and surface is bubbly, about 2 minutes. Flip and cook for another minute, then transfer to a plate.
- In a separate bowl, mix softened cream cheese, drained ricotta, additional powdered sugar, lemon zest, pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of kosher salt until creamy and well-blended.
- Place a spoonful of the cheese filling in the center of each pancake. Fold the sides over to form a rectangle.
- In the same pan, sauté the folded blintzes for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crisp.
- In a small saucepan, combine fresh berries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes until berries are soft.
- In another saucepan, mix chopped prunes, rum (if using), granulated sugar, water, and lemon juice. Cook until sauce thickens, about 10 minutes.
- Plate the blintzes, drizzling with berry sauce and garnish with fresh berries.