When the sun peeks through my window on a lazy weekend morning, there’s one dish that always beckons: Cherry Cheese Blintzes. Just the thought of soft, golden crepes wrapped around a creamy filling makes my mouth water. These delightful pancakes, with their rich cheese blend and a velvety cherry sauce on top, redefine comfort food and elevate any breakfast or brunch gathering.
I first discovered these blintzes during a casual Sunday brunch with friends, and they quickly became a go-to for those moments when I want to impress without stretching myself too thin. Not only do they boast a perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess, but they also allow for endless variations—think fresh fruits, a sprinkle of nuts, or even a savory twist with sautéed veggies.
So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. You’ll find that these cherry-topped beauties are sure to whisk you away to a flavor paradise with every bite!
Why Are Blintzes the Ultimate Breakfast Treat?
Simplicity at its finest: These blintzes are easy to whip up, making breakfast a breeze.
Deliciously creamy: The wonderful combo of cottage cheese and cream cheese creates a luxurious filling that blends perfectly with the sweet cherry sauce.
Versatile options: Whether you prefer cherries, berries, or even savory fillings, the possibilities are endless!
Impressive crowd-pleaser: Perfect for brunch gatherings or special family breakfasts, they’ll leave your guests raving for days.
Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare these blintzes in advance and reheat them, saving time on busy mornings.
Blintzes Ingredient List
• Get ready to create a sweet sensation!
For the Batter
- 2% Milk – Provides moisture and helps create a tender batter; substitute with whole milk for a richer flavor.
- Large Eggs – Acts as a binder, adding fluffiness to the blintz; room temperature eggs yield better results.
- Butter (melted) – Adds richness and aids in non-stick properties; use unsalted for more control over salt levels.
- All-Purpose Flour – Contributes structure; necessary for achieving the right texture; can substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- Salt – Enhances flavors; essential to include for taste balance.
For the Filling
- Cottage Cheese – Provides protein and creaminess; use ricotta for a different flavor profile if desired.
- Cream Cheese – Adds richness and smooth texture; Neufchâtel can be used for a lighter option.
- Sugar – Sweetens the filling; necessary for flavor balance; reduce to taste if preferred.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth to the flavor; optional but recommended for enhanced sweetness.
For the Cherry Sauce
- Fresh/Frozen Pitted Sweet Cherries – The star of the sauce, contributing fresh, fruity flavor; substitute with other berries if desired.
- Cornstarch – Thickens the cherry sauce; necessary for achieving the desired consistency; can be replaced with arrowroot powder.
How to Make Cherry Cheese Blintzes
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Prepare Batter: Whisk together 2% milk, large eggs, and melted butter in a bowl. Gradually add all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until smooth. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
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Cook Blintz Shells: Heat a greased skillet over medium heat. Pour 2 tablespoons of batter into the center, tilting the pan to cover the bottom. Cook until the edges are set and lightly browned, then flip for an additional 15-20 seconds. Transfer to a wire rack to cool.
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Make Filling: In a blender, blend cottage cheese until smooth. Add cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy. Chill the filling until ready to use.
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Fill Blintzes: Spread the chilled filling on each cooled blintz shell. Fold the sides over the filling and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the filled blintzes for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and slightly golden on top.
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Prepare Cherry Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine fresh or frozen pitted cherries, a splash of water, and sugar. Bring to a boil and dissolve the sugar. Mix cornstarch with a little water and add to the cherry mixture; cook and stir until the sauce thickens to your liking.
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Serve: Top the warm blintzes with the luscious cherry sauce and garnish as desired.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for a delightful touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry Cheese Blintzes are a perfect choice for those busy mornings when time is tight! You can prepare the batter and filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply store the batter in the refrigerator, covered, and keep the filling chilled until you’re ready to assemble. You can also cook the blintz shells ahead of time and refrigerate them (up to 3 days) until needed. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill the shells, bake them at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through, and top with your freshly prepared cherry sauce. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, made-ahead blintzes that are just as delightful as if you made them from scratch on the spot!
Blintz Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to make these delightful blintzes your own with these exciting and tasty twists!
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Fruit Swaps: Substitute fresh cherries with raspberries, blueberries, or peaches for a different burst of flavor. Each fruit adds its unique sweetness and texture, creating a whole new experience for your taste buds.
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Savory Delight: For a savory option, fill blintzes with a mixture of sautéed vegetables and feta cheese instead of the traditional sweet filling. Imagine a warm, creamy bite paired with roasted bell peppers, spinach, and the tanginess of feta.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to accommodate gluten sensitivities. The blintzes will still be deliciously tender and enjoyable for everyone.
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Dairy-Free Twist: Replace cottage cheese and cream cheese with cashew cream or a dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan version. This swap maintains that creamy texture while being kind to your dairy-free guests.
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Sugar Reduction: Opt for a sugar-free sweetener or reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or the cherry sauce for a healthier version. You can still enjoy the delightful flavors without the extra sweetness.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm spice note that beautifully complements the cherry sauce. These spices will create an inviting aroma as they cook!
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Extra Crunch: Mix in crushed nuts like almonds or walnuts into the filling for a delightful texture contrast. The added crunch pairs wonderfully with the soft blintzes and rich filling while boosting nutrition.
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Kick of Heat: For those who love a little heat, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes into the filling. This unexpected addition will create a tantalizing sweet-and-spicy harmony that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Expert Tips for Cherry Cheese Blintzes
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Perfect Batter Thickness: Measure batter precisely to control thickness. Too thick or thin can affect your blintzes’ texture.
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Slow Cooking: Cook blintzes slowly over medium heat to avoid burning. Using a nonstick pan can simplify the flipping process.
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Cherry Sauce Consistency: If your cherry sauce gets too thick, gradually add water until you achieve the desired consistency.
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Easier Flipping: Use a spatula or chopstick for flipping blintzes to prevent tearing. It’s a gentle touch that ensures a flawless finish.
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Chill Filling: Letting the filling chill before using it helps it firm up, making it easier to spread without oozing out.
What to Serve with Cherry Cheese Blintzes?
Indulge in a delightful breakfast experience that pairs beautifully with these sweet, creamy pancakes.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of light, fluffy whipped cream adds a rich texture that elevates the cherry sauce’s flavor.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of fresh berries and citrus adds brightness and enhances the dish’s sweet profile.
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Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of crispy bacon brings a savory balance to the sweetness of the blintzes, creating an irresistible contrast.
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Maple Syrup: Drizzling pure maple syrup over the blintzes brings an extra layer of sweetness, complementing the cherry filling perfectly.
Pairing these delightful options will transform your Cherry Cheese Blintzes into a memorable meal that dances on your taste buds and warms your heart!
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Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or a fragrant herbal tea makes for a cozy pairing that enhances the overall breakfast experience.
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Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a beautiful finish, making these blintzes look as good as they taste.
Storage Tips for Cherry Cheese Blintzes
Room Temperature: Serve Cherry Cheese Blintzes immediately after cooking for the best flavor and texture. If needed, keep at room temperature for up to 1 hour before serving.
Fridge: Store any leftover blintzes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They may lose some crispness, but reheating will help restore them.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked blintzes by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will last up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, simply bake chilled or frozen blintzes at 350°F until warmed through, about 10 minutes for chilled and 20-25 minutes for frozen. Enjoy them with the cherry sauce for a delightful treat!
Cherry Cheese Blintzes Recipe FAQs
What type of cherries should I use for the sauce?
Absolutely! You can use fresh or frozen pitted sweet cherries for the sauce. If you want to mix it up, feel free to substitute with other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile.
How do I store leftover Cherry Cheese Blintzes?
For any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While they may lose some crispness, reheating them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes will help restore their delicious texture!
Can I freeze Cherry Cheese Blintzes?
Very! To freeze, wrap unbaked blintzes tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake them directly from frozen at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
What should I do if my blintz shells are tearing while cooking?
If you’re experiencing tearing, I recommend flipping them gently using a spatula or chopstick for better control. Make sure your skillet is adequately greased and not too hot; cooking over medium heat can help prevent this issue.
Can I make Cherry Cheese Blintzes gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these blintzes suitable for gluten sensitivity. Just ensure that your baking powder, if used, is also gluten-free.
Are these blintzes suitable for pets or those with dairy allergies?
If you’re considering sharing with your pets, it’s best to keep these blintzes for human enjoyment due to the dairy content. For those with dairy allergies, try using dairy-free alternatives for the cream cheese and cottage cheese, like cashew cheese or tofu blended until smooth.
Irresistible Blintzes with Cherry Filling You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter in a bowl. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until smooth. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- Heat a greased skillet over medium heat. Pour 2 tablespoons of batter into the center, tilting the pan to cover the bottom. Cook until the edges are set and lightly browned, then flip for an additional 15-20 seconds. Transfer to a wire rack to cool.
- In a blender, blend cottage cheese until smooth. Add cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy. Chill the filling until ready to use.
- Spread the chilled filling on each cooled blintz shell. Fold the sides over the filling and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the filled blintzes for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and slightly golden on top.
- In a small saucepan, combine cherries, a splash of water, and sugar. Bring to a boil and dissolve the sugar. Mix cornstarch with a little water and add to the cherry mixture; cook and stir until the sauce thickens to your liking.
- Top the warm blintzes with the cherry sauce and garnish as desired.