Homemade Cheese Blintzes

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that combines crispy, golden-brown crepes with a rich and creamy filling, then Homemade Cheese Blintzes are your answer! These delightful treats are a staple in many cultures and are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. The soft, sweet cheese filling encased in a thin, delicate wrapper is simply irresistible. Plus, they are surprisingly simple to make! Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will surely impress your family and friends.

Why It’s My Go-To

Homemade Cheese Blintzes have earned a permanent spot in my recipe repertoire for several reasons. First, they are incredibly versatile. You can serve them with a variety of toppings, such as fresh fruits, fruit preserves, or a drizzle of maple syrup. Secondly, they can be prepared ahead of time, making them perfect for entertaining. Finally, the combination of ricotta and cream cheese in the filling creates a smooth, creamy texture that is simply divine. Whenever I want something special yet easy, Homemade Cheese Blintzes are my go-to!

What’s in the Bowl

To make these delightful cheese blintzes, gather the following ingredients:

• 4 eggs – These provide structure and richness to the crepes.
• 1 cup milk – This adds moisture and helps create a smooth batter.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – Essential for the crepe base.
• 1/4 cup sugar – A touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a fragrant and sweet note to the batter.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese – The creamy base of the filling.
• 8 ounces cream cheese – Adds richness and a smooth texture.
• 1/4 cup sugar – Sweetens the filling beautifully.
• 1 egg – Helps bind the filling together.
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice – Brightens the flavor of the cheese filling.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A lovely addition to the filling.

Gear Up: What to Grab

Before you get started, make sure you have the following kitchen essentials on hand:

• Mixing bowls – For combining the batter and filling.
• Whisk – To thoroughly mix the ingredients.
• Non-stick skillet or crepe pan – For cooking the blintzes.
• Spatula – To flip the crepes with ease.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Precision is key in baking!
• Plastic wrap – For storing the blintzes if you make them ahead of time.

Homemade Cheese Blintzes: From Prep to Plate

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Homemade Cheese Blintzes.

Step 1: Prepare the Crepe Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 4 eggs, 1 cup milk, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon salt until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Let the batter rest for about 30 minutes; this will help create more tender crepes.

Step 2: Cook the Crepes

Heat a non-stick skillet or crepe pan over medium heat. Once hot, lightly grease the pan with a little oil or butter. Pour about 1/4 cup of the batter into the center of the pan and quickly swirl to spread it evenly. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the edges start to lift and the bottom is lightly golden. Flip the crepe and cook for an additional 1 minute. Remove from the pan and let it cool on a plate. Repeat with the remaining batter, stacking the crepes on top of each other.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Filling

In another mixing bowl, combine 1 cup ricotta cheese, 8 ounces cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 egg, 2 teaspoons lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy. This filling is the star of your Homemade Cheese Blintzes!

Step 4: Assemble the Blintzes

Take a crepe and place about 2-3 tablespoons of the cheese filling in the center. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll it up from the bottom to create a neat package. Repeat this process with all the crepes and filling.

Step 5: Cook the Blintzes

In the same skillet, add a little more oil or butter and place the filled blintzes seam-side down. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. You can serve them immediately or keep them warm in the oven.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Plate your Homemade Cheese Blintzes and serve with your favorite toppings. Fresh berries, fruit preserves, or a dusting of powdered sugar work beautifully. You could also drizzle them with maple syrup for a sweet finish.

Budget & Availability Swaps

If you’re looking to save a little money or find alternatives, consider the following swaps:

• Ricotta cheese – You can use cottage cheese for a lower-fat option, just blend it for a smoother texture.
• Cream cheese – Neufchâtel cheese is a great lower-fat alternative.
• Milk – Almond milk or oat milk can be used for a dairy-free option.
• Eggs – For a vegan version, use flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer.

Notes on Ingredients

When making Homemade Cheese Blintzes, the quality of your ingredients matters! Here are a few notes:

• Use fresh eggs for the best results and flavor.
• Opt for full-fat cream cheese for a creamier filling.
• For the best texture, ensure that all your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
• Feel free to experiment with different flavorings in the filling, such as almond extract or orange zest!

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

If you have any leftover Homemade Cheese Blintzes, here’s how to store them:

• Refrigerate: Store the blintzes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: You can freeze assembled but uncooked blintzes by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: To reheat, simply cook them in a skillet or bake them in the oven until heated through and crispy.

Questions People Ask

Can I make the crepes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the crepes a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator, separating each crepe with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

What can I serve with Homemade Cheese Blintzes?

They pair wonderfully with fresh fruit, fruit compote, sour cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. For a decadent touch, consider drizzling with chocolate sauce.

Can I make a savory version of blintzes?

Yes! You can replace the sweet filling with a savory one, such as sautéed mushrooms or spinach mixed with cheese for a delicious twist.

How do I know when the crepes are ready to flip?

Look for the edges to lift slightly, and the surface should appear set and not shiny. If it looks too wet, give it a little more time.

Try These Next

• Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumb Bars – A delightful dessert that pairs well with your blintzes.
• Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies – For the ultimate sweet tooth craving!
• Brie Fig Jam Grilled Cheese – A savory option that’s perfect for lunch.

That’s a Wrap

Making Homemade Cheese Blintzes is a rewarding experience that brings comfort and joy to any meal. With their crispy exterior and creamy filling, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you choose to keep them classic or experiment with various fillings and toppings, these blintzes are bound to impress. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of creating this delicious dish. Your taste buds will thank you!