Pancakes with raisins, cottage cheese, and lots of good cheer

Pancakes with Raisins, Cottage Cheese, and Lots of Good Cheer

On February 2nd, in many corners of the world, a special moment dedicated to pancakes is celebrated! It is a day when families gather around the table to enjoy this delight. Chandeleur, as this celebration is called, is a perfect opportunity to bring smiles to the faces of loved ones. Last year, I promised my students that I would make pancakes to celebrate this occasion. It was a memorable experience, with many pancakes to make - almost 70! This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also bring back pleasant memories. Let’s get to work!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Number of Servings: 10-12 pancakes

Ingredients:

For the pancakes:
- 3 eggs
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1-2 vials vanilla essence
- 2 cups still or sparkling water
- A pinch of salt
- 2-3 tablespoons oil (for frying)

For the filling:
- 250 g cottage cheese
- 250 g sour cream (about half a tub)
- A bag of raisins (preferably plumper ones)
- 1-2 vials rum essence
- 5-6 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons flour
- A pinch of salt

For the topping:
- Remaining sour cream
- A cup of milk
- 2 tablespoons sugar

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the pancake batter
Start by gathering your ingredients and preparing a pleasant workspace. With cheerful music in the background, beat the eggs in a large bowl along with the sugar, vanilla essence, and a pinch of salt. Continue mixing for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes homogeneous and slightly frothy.

Gradually add the water while continuing to mix. Finally, incorporate the flour, but it’s important to do this gradually, in a rain-like fashion, using a whisk. This will help avoid lumps and ensure a smooth batter with a consistency similar to soft porridge.

Step 2: Frying the pancakes
Heat a non-stick frying pan and lightly grease it with oil. Use a ladle to pour the batter into the pan, rotating it to achieve an even pancake. Let the pancake fry until the edges turn golden, then carefully flip it. If you are a beginner, you can use a spatula, but if you feel adventurous, you can try flipping it in the air. Continue the process until the batter is finished, placing the pancakes on a plate at room temperature.

Step 3: Preparing the filling
In another bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar, rum essence, and a pinch of salt. Add the cottage cheese, sour cream, and raisins, mixing well. Finally, incorporate the flour to bind the filling. Ensure that all ingredients are well mixed for a homogeneous and tasty filling.

Step 4: Assembling the pancakes
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Take a baking dish and grease it with a cube of butter. Fill each pancake with the cheese and raisin mixture, aligning them nicely in the dish, side by side, like soldiers.

Step 5: Preparing the topping
In a small bowl, mix the remaining sour cream with the milk and sugar, being careful not to create a too runny mixture. Pour this topping over the pancakes in the baking dish, ensuring they are well covered.

Step 6: Baking
Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for about 30 minutes. You will know they are ready when the pancakes are slightly golden and the topping has started to bubble.

Serving and Tips:

After removing the pancakes from the oven, let them cool slightly before cutting them. They pair perfectly with a glass of milk or a cup of fragrant tea. You can also add a drizzle of maple syrup or fruit jam for extra flavor.

Possible Variations:
- Instead of raisins, you can use blueberries or blackberries for a fresher taste.
- Instead of cottage cheese, you can try ricotta or mascarpone for a creamier filling.
- A lighter version can be made with plant-based milk instead of sour cream.

Nutritional Benefits:
These pancakes are an excellent source of protein due to the eggs and cottage cheese. Raisins add fiber and vitamins, and while sour cream is caloric, it contributes to creaminess and delicious flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How can I prevent the pancakes from sticking?
Make sure the pan is well heated and use enough oil. Also, don’t forget to smile while cooking!

2. Can I prepare the pancakes in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pancakes in advance and store them in the fridge. Warm them slightly before serving.

3. What other drinks pair well with pancakes?
Fresh lemonade or a fruit smoothie are excellent choices to accompany the sweets.

Calories:
Each filled pancake has approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the serving size and ingredients used.

Enjoy this simple yet flavorful recipe! Pancakes with raisins and cottage cheese are more than just a dessert; they are a way to gather family around the table and create unforgettable memories. Remember, the key to success is to cook with your heart and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen! Bon appétit!