If you are looking for a delightful, wholesome dessert that feels like a warm hug from home, the Farmers Cheese Cake with Raisins (Zapekanka) Recipe is your perfect match. This traditional Eastern European baked cheesecake boasts a tender, creamy texture with bursts of sweetness from plump raisins, all wrapped up in a simple yet richly satisfying blend of farmer’s cheese and sour cream. It’s an inviting dish that balances comfort and elegance, perfect for any time you want to impress with minimal fuss but maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Farmers Cheese Cake with Raisins (Zapekanka) Recipe just right starts with a handful of straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a vital role. From the creamy richness of the farmer’s cheese to the natural sweetness of raisins, every component contributes to the perfect balance of taste and texture.
- 4 eggs: Provides structure and richness, helping the cake to set beautifully as it bakes.
- 20 oz farmer’s cheese: The star ingredient that gives this cake its signature tangy, creamy character.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds moisture and a subtle tang, keeping the cake irresistibly smooth and tender.
- 1/2 cup cream of wheat: Acts as a gentle binder, lending a light firmness without heaviness.
- 1/2 cup sugar: Sweetens the mixture just right, complementing the natural flavors perfectly.
- 1 tbsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise lightly for a fluffy texture that melts in your mouth.
- 1 cup raisins: Bring bursts of juicy sweetness and a pleasant chew to each bite.
How to Make Farmers Cheese Cake with Raisins (Zapekanka) Recipe
Step 1: Blend Your Batter to Perfection
Start by combining the farmer’s cheese, eggs, sugar, sour cream, cream of wheat, and baking powder in a blender or mixer. Blend these ingredients until you achieve a smooth, creamy batter with no lumps in sight. This step is crucial for that signature light yet dense texture that makes zapekanka such a joy to eat.
Step 2: Fold the Juicy Raisins In
Once your batter is smooth, gently fold in the raisins. Distributing them evenly ensures you get sweet little surprises in every bite without overwhelming the delicate cheese flavor. The contrast between creamy base and chewy raisins is what brings this dessert to life.
Step 3: Prepare Your Pan and Bake
Line an 8×12 inch or a 9-inch round baking pan with parchment paper or generously spray it with cooking spray. Pour the batter into the pan and spread it out evenly for consistent baking. Pop it in the oven set to 375ºF and bake for about 35 minutes, or until the top turns a lovely golden brown. The aroma while baking is simply irresistible!
Step 4: Cool and Slice
Allow the zapekanka to cool down to room temperature before slicing it into squares. This resting time lets the flavors meld and the cheesecake firm up slightly, making it easier to serve. You can enjoy it cold or warm it up for a comforting treat any time of the day.
How to Serve Farmers Cheese Cake with Raisins (Zapekanka) Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your serving by dusting the top with powdered sugar or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra warmth. Fresh berries or a drizzle of honey also add vibrant color and a natural burst of sweetness that complements the creamy base beautifully.
Side Dishes
This zapekanka pairs wonderfully with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, balancing its sweetness and adding a creamy freshness. For brunch or breakfast, serve alongside a fresh fruit salad or a cup of strong black tea for a complete, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to add a special touch? Serve individual portions in small ramekins topped with a few raisins and a mint leaf. Alternatively, layer slices with jam or fruit compote between them to create a stack that looks as fabulous as it tastes. The Farmers Cheese Cake with Raisins (Zapekanka) Recipe is versatile and perfect for both casual family dinners and festive occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover zapekanka in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It stays creamy and flavorful, making for a perfect next-day treat that tastes almost as good as freshly baked.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Farmers Cheese Cake with Raisins (Zapekanka) Recipe later, you can freeze it. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing their lovely texture.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy frozen zapekanka, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Warm slices gently in the microwave or a low-temperature oven to bring back the fresh-baked softness. Be careful not to overheat, or it might become dry.
FAQs
What is farmer’s cheese and can I substitute it?
Farmer’s cheese is a slightly tangy, fresh cheese with a crumbly yet creamy texture. If you cannot find it, quark or well-drained ricotta can work as good substitutes to keep the delicate flavor and consistency.
Can I use other dried fruits instead of raisins?
Absolutely! Chopped dried apricots, cranberries, or cherries can be excellent alternatives, adding different but equally delightful twists to the zapekanka’s flavor profile.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
This recipe uses cream of wheat, which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, try replacing it with a gluten-free semolina or finely ground gluten-free oats.
How do I know when zapekanka is done baking?
The zapekanka should be golden brown on top, and a knife inserted in the center should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs. It will firm up more as it cools.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
This traditional recipe relies on dairy and eggs for its creamy texture and flavor, so making it vegan would require significant substitutions. For a dairy-free version, try plant-based cheeses and egg substitutes, but expect some differences in texture and taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about this Farmers Cheese Cake with Raisins (Zapekanka) Recipe that makes it a treasured treat to keep in your recipe arsenal. It’s easy to make, wonderfully flavorful, and has that perfect balance of creamy and sweet that keeps everyone coming back for more. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe and share this little piece of delicious tradition with your loved ones.
PrintFarmers Cheese Cake with Raisins (Zapekanka) Recipe
This Farmers Cheese Cake with Raisins, also known as Zapekanka, is a traditional Eastern European baked dessert combining creamy farmer’s cheese, sweet raisins, and a hint of sour cream. It offers a smooth, tender texture with a subtly sweet flavor, perfect for a comforting breakfast or a delightful treat any time of day.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Eastern European
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Ingredients for Zapekanka
- 4 eggs
- 20 oz farmer’s cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cream of wheat
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 cup raisins
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Gather all necessary ingredients including the eggs, farmer’s cheese, sour cream, cream of wheat, sugar, baking powder, and raisins to ensure a smooth cooking process.
- Blend the batter: Combine the farmer’s cheese, eggs, sugar, sour cream, cream of wheat, and baking powder in a blender or mixer. Blend the mixture until it achieves a smooth and uniform texture, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Incorporate the raisins: Gently fold the raisins into the smooth batter to distribute them evenly without crushing them, adding pockets of sweetness throughout the cake.
- Prepare the baking pan: Line an 8×12 inch or 9-inch round baking pan with parchment paper or generously grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking during baking.
- Bake the Zapekanka: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 35 minutes or until the cake turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool to room temperature to set properly. Slice it into squares and serve either cold or warmed slightly in the microwave or oven according to preference.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, ensure the farmer’s cheese is finely curdled or slightly mashed before blending.
- Raisins can be soaked in warm water or rum beforehand to plump them up and add extra flavor.
- Use parchment paper or a well-greased pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Zapekanka can be enjoyed as a breakfast dish or dessert, served with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Reheat leftovers briefly for a soft and comforting snack.
