Name: Sweet Nalysnyky (Ukrainian Crepes) Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Ukrainian
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour (125 grams); 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; pinch kosher salt; 1½ cups whole milk; 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons butter, melted and cooled; neutral oil (for the pan); ⅓ cup golden raisins (or regular raisins); 1⅓ cups whole milk ricotta cheese; 2 tablespoons sour cream; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; pinch kosher salt; softened raisins (from above)

If you’ve ever dreamt of indulging in a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you absolutely have to try this Sweet Nalysnyky (Ukrainian Crepes) Recipe. These tender, delicate crepes are filled with a luscious ricotta mixture studded with plump golden raisins, bringing together the perfect balance of creamy and fruity sweetness. It’s a traditional Ukrainian treat with such a comforting charm you’ll want to make it again and again. From the silky batter to the inviting folds of the filled crepes, every bite tells a story of lovingly crafted home cooking that’s both simple and spectacular.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Nine small clear glass bowls and two white eggs are arranged on a white marbled surface. The bowls contain white flour with a fine texture, white granulated sugar, two square pieces of pale yellow butter, dried golden raisins, a clear liquid, a white powdery ingredient, thick creamy white sour cream, and light white milk. The two white eggs lie side by side near the center, not inside any bowl. The overall setup is neat and evenly spaced, showing each ingredient clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started with Sweet Nalysnyky (Ukrainian Crepes) Recipe means gathering a handful of basic ingredients that work together beautifully to create this elegant dish. Each component, from the flour to the raisins, plays an essential role in delivering the perfect texture, sweetness, and visual appeal.

1 cup all-purpose flour (125 grams): This forms the light and delicate base of the crepe batter.
2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to the batter, balancing flavors without overpowering.
Pinch kosher salt: Enhances the overall taste by rounding out the flavors.
1½ cups whole milk: Provides richness and helps achieve a smooth, pourable batter.
2 large eggs: Bind the batter, giving structure and a tender crumb.
2 tablespoons butter: Melted into the batter for buttery flavor and silkiness.
Neutral oil (for the pan): Keeps the crepes from sticking with a light, even coating.
⅓ cup golden raisins (or regular raisins): Rehydrated for plump sweetness that bursts in the filling.
1⅓ cups whole milk ricotta cheese: Creates the creamy, dreamy filling core with subtle tang.
2 tablespoons sour cream: Adds moisture and a gentle tartness that lifts the filling.
2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling to perfection.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses aromatic warmth into the filling, rounding out the flavors.
Pinch kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the filling’s depth.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Sweet Nalysnyky (Ukrainian Crepes) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Butter and Raisins

Start by melting the butter in the microwave and setting it aside to cool — this adds that signature rich, buttery undertone to your batter. While the butter cools, soak your golden raisins in hot water for about 20 minutes to plump them up. This simple step ensures they’re juicy and tender inside your filling, making every bite delightfully sweet and textured.

Step 2: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients Separately

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt to evenly distribute these essentials. In another separate bowl, whisk the eggs together with the whole milk until well combined — this gentle action ensures your crepe batter will be perfectly smooth. Keeping the steps separate here helps you avoid lumps and gives your crepes that silky finish.

Step 3: Combine and Rest the Batter

Pour the milk and egg mixture into the dry ingredients, whisking gently until just smooth. It’s crucial not to overmix, as you want to keep the batter light and airy. Fold in the cooled melted butter last to enrich the batter. The consistency should resemble heavy cream. Let your batter rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to relax the gluten, making your crepes tender and easy to spread thin in the pan.

Step 4: Prepare the Sweet Filling

While your batter is resting, combine the ricotta, sugar, sour cream, vanilla extract, softened golden raisins, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Stir until smooth — this luscious mixture is what transforms the crepes into a sweet and comforting treat, perfectly balanced between creamy, tangy, and sweet.

Step 5: Cook the Crepes

Heat an 8-inch non-stick skillet over medium heat, then lightly oil it using a paper towel dipped in neutral oil for a thin coating. Give the batter a gentle stir before scooping about ¼ cup into the center of the pan. Immediately lift and swirl the pan in a slow, gentle circular motion to spread the batter evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the edges turn golden, then flip carefully and cook for another minute. Stack the cooked crepes on a plate and cover them with a kitchen towel to keep warm.

Step 6: Fill and Fold Your Crepes

Spoon about two tablespoons of the ricotta-raisins filling onto each crepe and spread lightly toward the edges, making sure not to overfill. Choose your folding style — either fold into a neat wedge by folding the crepe in half twice or create an envelope shape by folding in the sides and rolling it up. Both shapes are charming and practical for serving.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy Immediately

Serve your Sweet Nalysnyky (Ukrainian Crepes) immediately! Sprinkle with powdered sugar or add a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche on top for extra indulgence. These crepes shine when enjoyed warm, with every bite melting in your mouth.

How to Serve Sweet Nalysnyky (Ukrainian Crepes) Recipe

The image shows two stages of folding a thin, light golden-brown crepe on a white marbled surface. On the left, a woman's hand gently folds the crepe in half, revealing its smooth, slightly textured surface with darker golden spots. On the right, a woman's hand holds the crepe folded again into a quarter, showing the delicate layers and soft texture with light spots of browning on both sides, all resting on the same white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding garnishes elevates the dish and makes it feel extra special. Fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of honey complement the creamy filling beautifully. A spoonful of rich sour cream or crème fraîche adds a tangy contrast that brightens the flavors.

Side Dishes

Pair these crepes with a fresh fruit salad or a light green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette for a full meal that balances sweetness with freshness. A cup of strong black tea or fresh brewed coffee also makes a perfect companion to this dish, enhancing the traditional experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, try rolling the crepes into tight logs and slicing them into bite-sized pinwheels — perfect for parties or brunch spreads. You can also serve individual crepes layered with extra filling in a stack, creating a stunning crepe cake that dazzles with every forkful.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store your filled crepes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They keep their texture nicely but are best enjoyed fresh for ultimate tenderness.

Freezing

To freeze Sweet Nalysnyky crepes, cool them completely after cooking, then layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a non-stick skillet over low heat or warm in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Avoid high heat to prevent drying out your lovely crepes.

FAQs

Can I substitute ricotta cheese with another cheese?

Absolutely! If you don’t have ricotta, farmer’s cheese or a mild cream cheese can work well as substitutes, though the texture and flavor might be slightly different. Just make sure the cheese is smooth and spreadable.

Are Golden raisins necessary for this recipe?

Golden raisins add a lovely color and delicate sweetness, but regular raisins work just as well. If you’d prefer, dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots can be exciting alternatives to experiment with.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

You can prepare the batter a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Be sure to bring it back to room temperature and give it a gentle stir before cooking, as it may thicken slightly while chilling.

What’s the best pan to use for cooking these crepes?

A good-quality non-stick skillet about 8 inches in diameter is ideal for cooking small, thin crepes evenly. A crepe pan can work beautifully too if you have one, but a non-stick skillet is a foolproof option for home cooks.

Can these crepes be made savory instead?

Definitely! You can skip the sugar and vanilla in the batter and fill the nalysnyky with savory ingredients like mushrooms, cheese, or potatoes for a delicious dinner option. The batter base is very versatile.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so heartwarming about making and sharing this Sweet Nalysnyky (Ukrainian Crepes) Recipe with loved ones. From the smooth batter to the rich, creamy filling bursting with tender raisins, it’s a dish that brings tradition and joy together effortlessly. If you’re craving a dessert that’s elegant yet approachable, comforting yet a little special, this recipe is a must-try. Trust me, once you make your first batch, Sweet Nalysnyky will hold a forever spot in your kitchen and heart.