Fluffy Ukrainian/Russian Apple Oladi Pancakes Recipe
Delight in the comforting flavors of fluffy Oladi, traditional Ukrainian/Russian pancakes with a tender interior and crispy edges. These homemade pancakes, made with kefir and diced apples, are perfect for a cozy weekend breakfast, offering a sweet and slightly tangy treat that’s sure to become a family favorite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Russian, Ukrainian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Batter
- 1 cup kefir
- ¼ cup water
- 1 egg
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus 2-3 tablespoons if needed)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
Add-ins
- 3 apples, peeled, cored, and diced
For Frying
- 5-6 tablespoons neutral oil (coconut oil or avocado oil recommended)
Instructions
- Prepare the kefir mixture: In a small bowl, combine the kefir and water, then microwave for 30 seconds to gently warm the mixture.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, salt, and sugar. Add the warmed kefir mixture and mix until evenly combined.
- Add flour to form batter: Gradually stir in 2 cups of flour, mixing until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. The consistency should be thick, similar to dense sour cream. If the batter is too thin, add an additional 2-3 tablespoons of flour as needed.
- Incorporate baking soda: Sprinkle in the baking soda and mix thoroughly to distribute it evenly through the batter.
- Fold in apples: Carefully fold the diced apples into the batter, ensuring they are well coated without overmixing.
- Heat the pan and oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of neutral oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the pancakes: Drop a heaping tablespoon of batter into the skillet, cooking 5-6 pancakes at a time. Fry each pancake for 2-3 minutes on the first side, or until golden brown, then flip and cook for another minute on the other side.
- Continue frying: Transfer cooked pancakes to a plate. Add more oil to the skillet as needed and continue frying the remaining batter in batches.
- Serve: Serve the Oladi warm with your favorite jam, honey, or sour cream for a delightful breakfast treat.
Notes
- You can adjust the batter thickness by adding more flour if it appears too runny.
- Use fresh, tart apples for a nice balance of sweetness.
- Neutral oils like coconut or avocado oil help achieve a crispy exterior without overpowering flavor.
- Oladi are best served fresh but can be kept warm in a low oven if making multiple batches.
- For a dairy-free variation, substitute kefir with a plant-based yogurt.
