# **Perfect Nalesniki with Cheese and Raisins – Russian Crepes Recipe**
### **Summary**
Nalesniki, Russian-style crepes, are tender and thin pancakes filled with a luscious mixture of sweet cheese and raisins. A classic Eastern European dish, these crepes can be served for breakfast, dessert, or even as a light dinner. The recipe is easy to follow and results in crepes that are golden, slightly crisp on the edges, and deliciously soft in the middle.
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### **Cook Time**: 25 minutes
### **Total Time**: 45 minutes
### **Servings**: 12 crepes
### **Calories**: 210 per crepe
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### **Course**: Breakfast, Dessert
### **Cuisine**: Russian, Eastern European
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## **Ingredients**
### **For the Crepes:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 large eggs
– 2 cups whole milk (or more if needed)
– 1 cup water
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (plus more for greasing the pan)
– Pinch of salt
### **For the Filling:**
– 2 cups farmer’s cheese or ricotta cheese
– ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
– 1 large egg yolk
– ½ tsp vanilla extract
– ½ cup raisins (soaked in warm water and drained)
### **For Serving:**
– Powdered sugar (optional)
– Sour cream or whipped cream
– Fresh fruit or preserves
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## **Instructions**
### **Step 1: Make the Crepe Batter**
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, water, sugar, vanilla extract, and melted butter until combined.
2. Gradually add the flour and salt, whisking to form a smooth, lump-free batter.
3. Let the batter rest for 15–20 minutes to allow the gluten to relax and the bubbles to settle.
### **Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling**
1. In a medium bowl, combine the farmer’s cheese, sugar, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and drained raisins.
2. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired.
### **Step 3: Cook the Crepes**
1. Heat a non-stick skillet or crepe pan over medium heat and lightly grease with butter.
2. Pour ¼ cup of batter into the pan and quickly swirl to coat the bottom in an even, thin layer.
3. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the edges lift slightly and the bottom is golden. Flip and cook for another 30 seconds on the other side.
4. Transfer to a plate and repeat with the remaining batter, stacking the crepes as you go.
### **Step 4: Assemble the Nalesniki**
1. Place a crepe on a clean surface, browned side down.
2. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the cheese filling onto one side of the crepe.
3. Fold the sides in and roll the crepe into a neat cylinder. Repeat with the remaining crepes and filling.
### **Step 5: Heat and Serve**
1. Lightly butter a skillet or baking dish and arrange the filled crepes in a single layer.
2. Heat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until warmed through.
3. Serve dusted with powdered sugar, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh fruit.
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## **Equipment Needed**
– Non-stick skillet or crepe pan
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk
– Spatula
– Measuring cups and spoons
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## **Recipe Variations**
1. **Savory Nalesniki**
– Skip the sugar in the batter and fill with sautéed mushrooms, cheese, or minced meat.
2. **Chocolate Crepes**
– Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder to the batter and fill with Nutella or chocolate ganache.
3. **Fruit-Filled Crepes**
– Replace the cheese filling with a mixture of fresh fruits and whipped cream.
4. **Nutty Delight**
– Add a sprinkle of crushed nuts like walnuts or almonds to the cheese filling for a crunchy twist.
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## **Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)**
**Q1: Can I make the crepe batter ahead of time?**
Yes! The batter can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and store it in the refrigerator. Stir well before using.
**Q2: Can I freeze Nalesniki?**
Absolutely. Freeze the filled and rolled crepes in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
**Q3: What is farmer’s cheese?**
Farmer’s cheese is a mild, crumbly cheese often used in Eastern European recipes. If unavailable, ricotta or cottage cheese (drained) works as a substitute.
**Q4: How do I keep my crepes from tearing?**
Ensure your batter is smooth and your pan is evenly heated. Lightly grease the pan between each crepe to prevent sticking.
**Q5: What can I serve with Nalesniki?**
Pair them with coffee, tea, or a fruit compote for a traditional Eastern European experience.
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## **Notes**
– For extra tender crepes, consider using a mix of milk and heavy cream in the batter.
– To save time, pre-cook all crepes before assembling and filling.
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## **Nutritional Info** (Per Serving)
– **Calories**: 210
– **Fat**: 8g
– **Carbohydrates**: 26g
– **Protein**: 8g
– **Sugar**: 12g
– **Sodium**: 150mg
## **Conclusion**
This **Nalesniki with Cheese and Raisins** recipe is a time-honored dish that’s easy to make and endlessly versatile. Whether served as a decadent breakfast or a satisfying dessert, these crepes bring the comforting flavors of Russian cuisine to your table. Give them a try, and enjoy the blend of creamy, sweet, and tangy in every bite!