Syrnyk is a beloved Ukrainian baked cheesecake made with cottage cheese, eggs, and sugar for a naturally sweet, fluffy, and wholesome dessert. Traditionally served during holidays like Easter or enjoyed chilled with fruit preserves, this simple yet satisfying treat showcases the comforting flavors of Eastern European baking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Syrnyk is light, naturally sweet, and incredibly easy to prepare. Unlike richer Western-style cheesecakes, this version relies on cottage cheese or farmer’s cheese for a mild, creamy flavor and airy texture. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, it’s perfect for make-ahead entertaining, everyday dessert, or a nostalgic family treat. Serve it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or paired with fresh berries or jam for a traditional finish.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 lbs cottage cheese (well-drained, or use farmer’s cheese)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp semolina or all-purpose flour (optional, for firmness)
- Butter, for greasing the baking dish
directions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Generously grease a 9-inch (23 cm) round or square baking dish with butter. - Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a food processor or large mixing bowl, blend the cottage cheese until smooth.
Add the eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined and smooth.
If the mixture is too moist, stir in semolina or flour to help the cheesecake set. - Bake the Syrnyk:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set but still slightly soft. - Cool and Chill:
Let the cheesecake cool in the baking dish at room temperature.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing for the best texture and flavor. - Serve:
Serve chilled, plain or dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with fruit preserves, berries, or sour cherry sauce.
Servings and timing
Servings: 8 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 3 hours
Calories: Approximately 260 kcal per serving
Variations
- Raisin Add-In: Stir in a handful of golden or dark raisins for a traditional touch.
- Citrus Twist: Add 1 tsp lemon zest for a bright, fresh flavor.
- Crust Option: Line the bottom with crushed biscuits or graham crackers for a textured base.
- Spiced Version: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth.
- Layered Syrnyk: Add a thin layer of jam between two halves of the batter before baking for a marbled effect.
storage/reheating
Store Syrnyk in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can be served straight from the fridge or allowed to come slightly to room temperature. Freezing is possible, though best done in individual slices wrapped tightly—thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheating is not necessary, as it is traditionally enjoyed chilled.
FAQs
What is the difference between Syrnyk and Western cheesecake?
Syrnyk is lighter, less sweet, and typically made with cottage or farmer’s cheese rather than cream cheese. It’s often served without a crust and enjoyed chilled.
Can I use ricotta instead of cottage cheese?
Yes, ricotta is a good substitute, though farmer’s cheese will yield the most traditional texture.
Do I need to drain the cottage cheese?
Yes, draining excess liquid is important to prevent a runny batter. Use cheesecloth or a fine mesh sieve for best results.
Can I make Syrnyk without a food processor?
Yes, mash the cottage cheese by hand or use an immersion blender to smooth it before mixing with the other ingredients.
What does Syrnyk taste like?
It has a mildly sweet, creamy flavor with a slightly tangy note from the cheese. The texture is soft and slightly dense.
Why did my Syrnyk crack?
Cracks can happen if the oven is too hot or the cake cools too quickly. This doesn’t affect the flavor and is common in rustic versions.
Can I add toppings before baking?
It’s best to add toppings like jam or fruit after baking to maintain texture and avoid burning.
Is flour or semolina necessary?
It’s optional, but helpful if the cheese mixture is very wet. It helps firm up the final texture without making the cake heavy.
What should I serve with Syrnyk?
Try sour cherry jam, raspberry preserves, whipped cream, or just a light dusting of powdered sugar.
Is this suitable for holidays like Easter?
Absolutely. Syrnyk is a traditional Easter dessert in Ukraine but can be enjoyed at any time of year.
Conclusion
Syrnyk is a beautiful example of Eastern European baking—humble, nourishing, and deliciously satisfying. With its light texture and subtle sweetness, this Ukrainian baked cheesecake is perfect for both everyday enjoyment and special occasions. Whether served with a dollop of jam or simply dusted with sugar, Syrnyk invites a quiet moment of comfort and tradition in every bite.
PrintUkrainian Baked Cheesecake
Syrnyk is a light and fluffy Ukrainian baked cheesecake made with cottage cheese, eggs, and sugar—naturally sweet and simple, often served chilled with powdered sugar or fruit preserves.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Ukrainian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 lbs cottage cheese (well-drained, or use farmer’s cheese)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp semolina or all-purpose flour (optional, for firmness)
- Butter, for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) round or square baking dish with butter.
- In a food processor or large bowl, blend cottage cheese until smooth.
- Add eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. If the cheese is very moist, add semolina or flour to firm it up.
- Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes until the center is set and top is lightly golden.
- Let cool in the dish, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours for best texture.
- Slice and serve chilled, plain or with jam, berries, or powdered sugar.
Notes
- Farmer’s cheese yields a firmer, smoother texture than cottage cheese.
- Drain cottage cheese through a cheesecloth if very wet.
- Add lemon zest or raisins for extra flavor.
- Great make-ahead dessert—best served cold from the fridge.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 260 kcal
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg