Just about every culinary culture has pancakes. You know that chain pancake place over by the highway? They claim to be 'International', but they only offer us French Toast and Belgian Waffles. What other international delights are they keeping from us?


Blintz

Blintz

Photo: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Cheese_blintzes_with_blackberries.jpg

Blintzes are a delicious crepe variation often found in Jewish and Eastern European cuisine. They’re basically thin pancakes or crepes, but what makes them special is the sweet filling inside—usually a creamy mixture of ricotta or farmer’s cheese. Once filled, they’re rolled up, lightly pan-fried until golden, and served warm. Consider them a rolled, filled version of a blini.

Blintzes can be enjoyed on their own or topped with a little something extra like fruit compote, sour cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar. They’re a go-to dish for special occasions, but they’re good any time you’re in the mood for something cozy and satisfying.

Blintz Recipe

Ingredients (Makes about 10-12 Blintzes)

For the Crepes:

  • All-purpose flour – 1 cup
  • Milk – 1 cup
  • Eggs – 2 large
  • Water – ½ cup
  • Butter – 2 tablespoons (melted)
  • Sugar – 1 tablespoon
  • Salt – ¼ teaspoon
  • Butter or oil – For greasing the pan

For the Filling:

  • Ricotta cheese or farmer’s cheese – 1 cup
  • Cream cheese – ½ cup (softened)
  • Sugar – 2 tablespoons
  • Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
  • Egg yolk – 1 (optional, for a richer filling)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crepes

  1. In a blender or mixing bowl, combine the flour, milk, eggs, water, melted butter, sugar, and salt. Blend or whisk until smooth and lump-free.
  2. Let the batter rest for 20-30 minutes to allow the bubbles to settle.
  3. Heat a non-stick skillet or crepe pan over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil.
  4. Pour about ¼ cup of batter into the pan, swirling to coat the bottom in a thin layer.
  5. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the edges lift slightly and the bottom is golden. Flip and cook for 10-15 seconds on the other side.
  6. Transfer the crepe to a plate and repeat with the remaining batter, stacking the crepes as you go.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  1. In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk (if using) until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Blintzes

  1. Place a crepe on a flat surface, golden side down.
  2. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the filling into the center of the crepe.
  3. Fold the bottom edge up over the filling, then fold the sides inward, and roll up tightly like a burrito.
  4. Repeat with the remaining crepes and filling.

Step 4: Cook the Blintzes

  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little butter or oil.
  2. Place the filled blintzes seam-side down in the skillet and cook until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Serving Suggestions

Blintzes are delicious served warm with toppings such as:

  • Sour cream
  • Fruit preserves (e.g., strawberry, raspberry, or apricot)
  • Fresh fruit or berries
  • Powdered sugar

Name_ Blintz
Origin_ ✡️ Jewish
Morphology_ ⟁ Crepe
Flavor_ sweet
Filling_ various
Topping_ various
Recipe_ Blintz Recipe
« All Pancakes_