Name: How to Make Cheese Blintzes: A Sweet Breakfast Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Cottage Cheese (or cream cheese for richer taste); 3 tablespoons Granulated Sugar (adjust based on sweetness preference); 2 large Eggs (helps bind filling); 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract (adds aromatic sweetness); 2 cups Frozen Strawberries (thawed); 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar (adjust to taste); 1/4 cup Water (for simmering sauce); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free flour for an alternative); 1/4 teaspoon Kosher Salt (to enhance flavors); 1 cup Milk (adjust for batter thickness); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (melted)

“Can we have blintzes for breakfast today?” my niece asked, gazing at me with wide, hopeful eyes. It was one of those moments where I knew I had to cook something special, and a warm plate of homemade Cheese Blintzes sounded like the perfect answer. This recipe is all about ease, making it ideal for brunch or special occasions. Imagine a light crepe wrapped around a creamy filling of cottage cheese, sugar, and vanilla, then lightly fried to golden perfection. These Cheese Blintzes not only offer a delightful nostalgia, but they also make for an impressive dish that can be prepared ahead of time. Serve them with a luscious strawberry sauce, and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to spark joy at any table. Ready to create a dish that brings smiles and warm memories? Let’s dive into how to make Cheese Blintzes that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why Make Cheese Blintzes Today?

Irresistible Flavor: These Cheese Blintzes deliver a perfect blend of creamy sweetness wrapped in golden-brown crepes, creating a dish that’s as delicious as it is visually appealing.
Make-Ahead Marvel: Prep these blintzes in advance, so you can spend more time enjoying brunch with loved ones and less time in the kitchen!
Versatile Toppings: Whether you choose a simple strawberry sauce or mix it up with blueberries, each serving can be personalized for every palate.
Satisfying Treat: With about 129 calories per blintz, they strike the ideal balance between indulgence and health, making them a delightful breakfast choice.
Perfect for Occasions: From weekend brunches to festive gatherings, these blintzes are not just food; they are a shared experience that brings everyone to the table. Don’t forget to check out our variations, like the Cottage Cheese Flatbread for a unique twist!

How to Make Cheese Blintzes Ingredients

For the Filling

Cottage Cheese – This is the star ingredient for creaminess and protein, but you can substitute with cream cheese for an even richer taste.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens both the filling and sauce; adjust based on your personal sweetness preference.
Eggs – Large eggs work best as they help bind the filling, ensuring the perfect fluffy texture.
Pure Vanilla Extract – A dash adds aromatic sweetness, elevating your blintz filling to new heights.

For the Strawberry Sauce

Frozen Strawberries – These are perfect for creating your sauce; just thaw them for easy cooking. You can also use fresh strawberries if you prefer.
Granulated Sugar – This sweetens your sauce; feel free to adjust depending on your taste preference.
Water – Necessary for simmering the sauce until it reaches that perfect, saucy consistency.

For the Crepes

All-Purpose Flour – The base of your crepes, it offers structure and stability. Gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free alternative.
Kosher Salt – Enhance the flavors of both the filling and the crepes with just a pinch.
Milk – Adjust this to achieve your desired crepe batter thickness; it ensures a smooth, pourable consistency.
Unsalted Butter – This is key for imparting flavor in your crepes and during frying—oil can be a non-dairy alternative.

Get ready to impress everyone at your brunch table with your culinary skills. Learn how to make Cheese Blintzes that deliver comfort and joy in every bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for How to Make Cheese Blintzes

Step 1: Make Cheese Filling
Begin by draining the cottage cheese for at least 3 hours using a sieve lined with cheesecloth, ensuring any excess liquid is removed. In a food processor, combine the drained cottage cheese, sugar, one egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is entirely smooth, creating a creamy filling that’s perfect for your Cheese Blintzes.

Step 2: Prepare Strawberry Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine the thawed frozen strawberries, sugar, and a splash of water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the strawberries break down, creating a luscious topping for your blintzes.

Step 3: Create Crepe Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, and kosher salt until well combined. In a separate bowl, mix together the milk, eggs, and melted butter until blended. Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, whisking continuously until the batter is smooth and free of lumps, ready for making your delicious crepes.

Step 4: Cook Crepes
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and coat it lightly with butter. Pour in just enough batter to cover the bottom of the pan, swirling it to achieve an even layer. Cook the crepe for about 1-2 minutes, until the edges begin to brown. Flip it carefully and cook for an additional minute until golden. Transfer the crepe to wax paper and repeat with the remaining batter.

Step 5: Assemble Blintzes
Lay a crepe flat on a plate and add a tablespoon of the prepared cheese filling in the center. Fold the sides of the crepe over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to encase the filling completely, forming a neat square package. Repeat this process with the remaining crepes and filling to assemble all your Cheese Blintzes.

Step 6: Fry Blintzes
Heat another skillet over medium heat and brush with butter to prevent sticking. Place the filled blintzes seam-side down in the skillet, frying them for about 3-4 minutes until they turn golden brown. Carefully flip the blintzes and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side until beautifully crisp. Serve warm, drizzled with the homemade strawberry sauce for a delightful finish.

Expert Tips for Cheese Blintzes

Cool Crepes First: Ensure your crepes are completely cooled before filling to prevent tearing. This simple step will save you from kitchen frustration!
Use a Scant Filling: Avoid filling spillovers by using just a scant tablespoon of your cheese mixture. More isn’t always better when it comes to blintzes!
Rest Crepes: Allow the crepes to rest after frying before serving; this helps them become firmer and easier to handle when assembling.
Make-Ahead Magic: Cheese blintzes can be made a few hours ahead, stored in the fridge, and simply fried right before serving for a convenient brunch treat!
Explore Variations: Don’t hesitate to try different fillings or sauces; blueberry or raspberry toppings can add a delightful twist to your blintz-making experience!

How to Store and Freeze Cheese Blintzes

Fridge: Store cooked Cheese Blintzes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They should be cooled completely before putting them away to maintain texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze blintzes individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side until heated through and golden.

Make-Ahead: Cheese blintzes can be prepared ahead of time, stored in the fridge, and fried just before serving for a fresh-tasting dish that delights the palate!

What to Serve with Deliciously Easy Cheese Blintzes?

Imagine the warm aroma of freshly made cheese blintzes filling your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table for a delightful meal.

Sweet Fresh Fruits: Fresh berries, sliced bananas, or diced peaches add bright pops of color and refreshing flavor, complementing the creamy filling beautifully. Their natural sweetness balances nicely with the blintzes’ richness.
Greek Yogurt: A dollop of tangy Greek yogurt brings a creamy, slightly tart contrast, enhancing the overall flavor profile and adding a healthy element to your meal.
Maple Syrup: Drizzling warm maple syrup over the blintzes creates a sweet and sticky experience that elevates each bite, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
Nutty Granola: The crunchy texture of nutty granola adds a delightful contrast to the soft cheese blintzes, while adding some wholesome goodness to your plate.
Sautéed Apples: Sweetened sautéed apples with a sprinkle of cinnamon offer a warm, comforting side, infusing a home-like sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the dish.
Coffee or Tea: Complement your brunch with a steaming cup of coffee or a fragrant herbal tea to round off this delightful meal, stimulating your senses and enhancing the experience.
Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top offers a sweet finishing touch, visually appealing and deliciously tempting, encouraging everyone to dig in.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with citrus vinaigrette introduces fresh, crisp textures, balancing the richness of the blintzes for a satisfying meal.

Each of these pairings not only enhances the flavors of your deliciously easy cheese blintzes but also brings a comforting essence that makes every bite feel like home.

How to Make Cheese Blintzes Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delightful Cheese Blintzes and tailor them to your taste buds!

Creamy Swap: Replace cottage cheese with cream cheese for a richer, velvety filling that adds an indulgent twist.
Mixed Berry Bliss: Use a blend of fresh or frozen berries for your sauce, like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries, to add vibrant color and flavor.
Honey Drizzle: Swap granulated sugar with honey in the filling for a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese.
Citrus Zing: Add a dash of lemon or orange zest to the filling for a refreshing citrus brightness that contrasts beautifully with the sweet sauce.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle in some finely chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, into the filling for an unexpected crunch that elevates the texture.
Heat it Up: For a spicy kick, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes into the filling for a delightful surprising heat.
Coconut Delight: Substitute half of the cottage cheese with shredded coconut for a tropical flair that will transport you to a sunny getaway with every bite.
Smooth Banana Sauce: Replace the strawberry sauce with a warm banana foster sauce; just sauté sliced bananas with butter, brown sugar, and a splash of rum for a decadent topping.

For more delicious variations, explore options like Cottage Cheese Flatbread or have fun with tasty treats like Cottage Cheese Rolls. You’re on the path to personalizing this cherished recipe!

Make Ahead Options

These Cheese Blintzes are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cheese filling up to 24 hours in advance by blending the drained cottage cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla, then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The crepes can also be made up to 3 days ahead; just stack them between sheets of wax paper and wrap tightly in plastic to maintain their texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill and fry the blintzes for a quick and easy dish that’s just as delicious as when made fresh. This way, you can enjoy a delightful brunch with less stress and more time with your loved ones!

Cheese Blintzes Recipe FAQs

What type of cottage cheese should I use for the filling?
I recommend using full-fat cottage cheese for the creamiest texture. However, if you’re looking for a quicker prep, using cream cheese as a substitute will still yield a rich and delicious filling. Just blend it with the other filling ingredients until smooth!

How should I store leftover Cheese Blintzes?
To store, place the cooked Cheese Blintzes in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent sogginess and preserve their delightful texture.

Can I freeze Cheese Blintzes for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay the filled and cooked blintzes on a baking sheet in a single layer until firm, about an hour. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet for a few minutes on each side.

Why did my crepes tear while cooking?
This can happen if the crepes are too warm when you try to fill them. Always allow your crepes to cool completely before adding filling. Additionally, if the batter is too thick or there are air bubbles in it while cooking, it can cause tearing. Make sure to whisk the batter until it’s smooth!

Are Cheese Blintzes safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes! The ingredients in this Cheese Blintzes recipe are free from nuts. However, it’s always a good idea to double-check labels on your specific ingredients to make sure there are no cross-contamination risks if you are preparing food for someone with allergies.

Can I make gluten-free Cheese Blintzes?
Definitely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to create gluten-free Cheese Blintzes. Just ensure that your blend has a good structure, and you may need to adjust the amount of liquid in the crepe batter slightly for the best results.