Russian Cheese Pelmeni
Russian cheese pelmeni is one of the most delicious sweet variations of Russian cuisine, often prepared for special occasions or as a light dessert. Originally from Siberia, these homemade cheese-filled dumplings were served as a sweet treat or even for dinner. The cheese filling is creamy and slightly sweet, well-enclosed by the homemade dough. Tip: a little lemon zest or raisins makes the flavor truly special. This dish is an excellent choice if you want a simple yet traditional Russian dessert. Served warm with sour cream, it creates a truly homely atmosphere – whether for weekend lunches or festive occasions.
Ingredients for this recipe
Shopping List (0) ▼
Shopping List (
Preparation Steps
1
Combine the flour, egg, water, and salt. Knead into a smooth, elastic dough, then cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2
For the filling, mix the farmer cheese, vanilla sugar, and granulated sugar. Taste and add a little more sugar for a sweeter flavor, if desired.
3
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough and cut out circles. Place a teaspoon of the cheese filling in the center of each circle.
4
Fold the dough in half, pressing the edges together firmly to seal. Shape the pelmeni into classic half-moon shapes. Ensure they are well sealed to prevent the filling from escaping during cooking.
5
Bring a pot of lightly salted water to a boil, then cook the pelmeni for 4–5 minutes, or until they float to the surface. If using a sweet filling, be careful not to over-salt the water.
6
Drain the pelmeni and toss with a little butter. Serve warm, topped with sour cream.
7
Tip: You can flavor the cheese filling with lemon zest or raisins for a more rustic dessert.
8
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated the next day over steam or in the microwave. Do not freeze, as the texture of the farmer cheese may change.
