Classic Syrna Zapikanka (Cottage Cheese Casserole)

Ingredients (half batch)

• 250 g cottage cheese (tvorog), 5–9% fat
• 2 eggs, separated
• 50 g sour cream (15–20% fat)
• 75 g sugar, split in half
• 5 g vanilla sugar (about ½ sachet)
• 30 g all-purpose flour
• 25–38 g raisins
• 12 g butter (to grease the pan)
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½–1 tbsp powdered sugar, optional, to finish

Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 180°C (convection if available; otherwise top/bottom heat).
2. Blend (or sieve) the cottage cheese until smooth.
3. Add the egg yolks, then half the sugar and the vanilla sugar; mix.
4. Mix in the sour cream and raisins.
5. Add the flour and stir until uniform.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites with the salt until foamy, then gradually add the remaining sugar and beat to soft peaks.
7. Gently fold the whipped whites into the cheese mixture without deflating it.
8. Grease a baking dish with the butter.
9. Pour in the batter and smooth the top.
10. Bake for 45–55 minutes, until set and lightly golden. If the top browns too fast, cover loosely with foil.
11. Cool completely before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.