The Best Cheese Blintzes for a Crowd-Pleasing Brunch

Golden, delicate crepes filled with a creamy, lightly sweetened cheese filling—cheese blintzes are a brunch classic that feels indulgent yet can be made with better-for-you ingredients. These blintzes are pan-seared to perfection and served warm, optionally with a spoonful of fruit compote or a dusting of powdered sweetener. Elegant, satisfying, and simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Decadent Yet Light: Creamy filling wrapped in a tender crepe, made with wholesome ingredients.
Perfect for Brunch or Dessert: Great for weekend brunch, holiday breakfasts, or a sweet treat.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Blintzes can be prepared and stored ahead of time, then pan-fried just before serving.
Customizable Toppings: Enjoy with berries, fruit compote, or even Greek yogurt.

Ingredients

For the Crepes:

• 3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or low-fat milk)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat pastry flour)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 tablespoon melted light butter or oil
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Nonstick spray or a bit of oil for the pan

For the Cheese Filling:

• 1/2 cup low-fat ricotta or farmer cheese
• 1/4 cup fat-free cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon powdered sweetener (like erythritol or stevia blend)
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: zest of 1/2 lemon for brightness

Instructions

Prepare the Crepe Batter

• In a blender, combine milk, flour, egg, melted butter, vanilla, and salt. Blend until smooth.
• Let the batter rest for 10 minutes to reduce bubbles.

Cook the Crepes

• Heat a small nonstick skillet over medium heat and lightly coat with spray or oil.
• Pour 2–3 tablespoons of batter into the pan, tilting to coat the bottom.
• Cook for 1–2 minutes until the edges lift slightly, then gently flip and cook another 30 seconds.
• Set cooked crepes aside on a plate and repeat until you have 6.

Make the Cheese Filling

• In a bowl, combine ricotta, cream cheese, sweetener, vanilla, and optional lemon zest. Mix until creamy and smooth.

Fill and Roll the Blintzes

• Lay a crepe on a flat surface. Add 2 tablespoons of filling to the lower third.
• Fold the bottom over the filling, fold in the sides, then roll up tightly into a log.
• Repeat with remaining crepes and filling.

Sear the Blintzes

• Lightly coat a nonstick skillet with spray or oil and heat over medium.
• Place blintzes seam-side down and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and warmed through.

Nutritional Information (Per Blintz, Approximate)

• Calories: 120
• Carbs: 10g
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

Tips for Success

• Rest the Batter: Letting the batter rest creates smoother, more pliable crepes.
• Use a Nonstick Pan: This makes it much easier to flip crepes without tearing.
• Don’t Overfill: A little filling goes a long way—keep it neat for easier rolling.
• Crisp Before Serving: Pan-searing just before serving adds irresistible texture and warmth.

Why This Recipe Works

• Classic Taste, Smarter Build: All the comfort of a traditional blintz with lower-fat dairy and balanced sweetness.
• Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples come together for a refined yet approachable dish.
• Adaptable for Any Diet: Easily made gluten-free or dairy-free with the right swaps.
• Make Once, Enjoy All Week: Store in the fridge and reheat for a quick, elegant meal.

These Cheese Blintzes offer a delicious blend of creamy filling and soft, golden crepes—all made with light, wholesome ingredients. Whether you serve them for a special brunch or a cozy dessert, they’re sure to impress. Add your favorite toppings, and enjoy a taste of comfort that fits your lifestyle.