Túrós Palacsinta (Hungarian Cottage Cheese Pancakes)
Thin, delicate crepes rolled around a sweet, creamy filling of túró cheese. A beloved Hungarian classic that balances richness with a light texture.
A little context
Palacsinta are ubiquitous in Hungary, served as dessert or breakfast. Túrós is the most traditional filling, using túró, a dry curd cheese distinct from American cottage cheese. It is often enjoyed at family gatherings or on Sundays. Authentic versions avoid heavy sauces, letting the cheese shine.
Method
- 01
Make the batter
Combine flour, sugar, salt, eggs, milk, and 1 tbsp oil in a blender. Blend until smooth, about 30 seconds.
- 02
Rest the batter
Pour batter into a bowl, cover, and let rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to relax the gluten.
- 03
Prepare the filling
In a separate bowl, mix túró cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until well combined and creamy.
- 04
Heat the skillet
Place the non-stick skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease with a paper towel dipped in oil.
- 05
Cook the first pancake
Pour about 60 ml (¼ cup) of batter into the center. Immediately tilt and rotate the pan to coat the bottom thinly.
- 06
Flip and finish
Cook for 60-90 seconds until edges lift and the top looks dry. Flip with a spatula and cook the other side for 30 seconds.
- 07
Stack and cover
Transfer the cooked pancake to a plate. Cover with a clean kitchen towel to keep them soft and warm.
- 08
Repeat process
Wipe the pan with oil between every 3 pancakes. Repeat until all batter is used, stacking pancakes as you go.
- 09
Fill the pancakes
Place 2-3 tablespoons of the cheese filling near the edge of a warm pancake. Fold the sides in, then roll up tightly.
- 10
Serve immediately
Arrange on a platter. Dust with powdered sugar or serve with sour cherry jam if desired.
Pro tips
- ✦Resting the batter is crucial for tender, non-rubbery crepes.
- ✦If the filling is too dry, mix in a teaspoon of milk or sour cream.
- ✦Keep finished pancakes covered to prevent them from drying out while you cook the rest.
- ✦Use a paper towel to grease the pan; too much oil makes the pancakes greasy.
Substitutions
- túró cheese → dry farmer's cheese or well-drained cottage cheese (drain excess liquid thoroughly for best texture)
- whole milk → buttermilk (adds a slight tang and tenderness)
- lemon zest → vanilla sugar (traditional Hungarian sweetener)
Storage
Store unfilled pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days. Fill just before serving. Unfilled pancakes freeze well for 2 months.
What to serve with it
- powdered sugar
- sour cherry jam
- whipped cream
- black coffee or tea
FAQ
Can I use regular American cottage cheese?+
Yes, but drain it in a fine-mesh sieve for at least 30 minutes to remove excess liquid.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?+
Yes, refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Whisk briefly before using.
Why are my pancakes tearing?+
The pan may be too hot, or the batter is too thick. Add a splash of milk if needed.
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