Blintz Soufflé is a rich, creamy, and light dish with a cheesy filling, perfect for brunch or breakfast. It mimics traditional blintzes but is easier to make, requiring no crepe rolling. The dish is topped with blueberry sauce or assorted jams for extra flavor.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter

• Sugar

• Eggs

• Sour cream

• Orange juice

• Flour

• Baking powder

• Cream cheese

• Cottage cheese

• Egg yolks

• Vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and butter a baking dish.

2. Blend batter ingredients and pour half into the dish.

3. Mix filling ingredients and spoon over the batter.

4. Cover with remaining batter and refrigerate overnight if needed.

5. Bake for 50-60 minutes until golden.

Nutrients (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: ~290 per serving

• Carbohydrates: ~25g

• Protein: ~10g

• Fat: ~18g

• Fiber: ~1g

• Sugars: ~10g (mainly from fruits and sweeteners)

Origin and Popularity of Blintz Soufflé

Blintz Soufflé is an American take on the traditional Jewish blintz, which is a type of filled pancake. Blintzes are usually rolled and filled with cheese or fruit, then fried or baked. However, the soufflé version simplifies the process by layering the ingredients in a baking dish, making it easier to prepare, especially for larger groups. The soufflé style adds a lighter, airy texture to the dish, while still keeping the rich, comforting qualities that blintzes are known for.

The dish has grown in popularity over the years, often being served for special occasions like Passover, Easter brunch, or any celebratory meal. It offers a blend of textures – from the creamy cheese filling to the fluffy, slightly crisped top layer of batter. Topped with fruit compote, such as blueberry sauce, it becomes even more delightful, offering a sweet contrast to the savory components.

Flavor Profile and Texture

The beauty of Blintz Soufflé lies in its complex yet balanced flavor profile. The rich cream cheese and cottage cheese filling offers a tangy, creamy base that pairs wonderfully with the slightly sweet batter. The soufflé portion is soft and fluffy, almost like a cross between a pancake and a cheesecake, providing a delicate contrast to the denser, creamy filling. When baked, the outer layer forms a slightly crisp crust that adds texture to each bite.

The dish is typically served warm, and the topping – whether it’s a homemade blueberry sauce or another fruit compote – enhances the overall sweetness of the soufflé. The fruit sauce adds a tartness that balances the richness of the cheese filling, creating a delightful combination of flavors. This balance between savory and sweet makes Blintz Soufflé a unique dish that appeals to a wide range of palates.

Perfect for Special Occasions

Blintz Soufflé is an ideal dish for gatherings and special occasions, offering an elegant presentation and a comforting, indulgent taste. Its ease of preparation makes it an excellent choice for holiday meals or brunches, especially when you want to serve something more sophisticated than traditional pancakes or scrambled eggs. The fact that it can be made ahead of time and refrigerated overnight adds to its convenience, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without spending hours in the kitchen.

In Jewish traditions, blintzes are often eaten during special holidays like Shavuot and Passover, and the soufflé version of this dish carries that same festive spirit. The light, airy texture makes it perfect for Easter or a spring brunch, evoking the fresh, seasonal flavors of the time of year. Whether it’s served for a family gathering or an intimate brunch with friends, this dish adds a touch of elegance to any celebration.

Variations of Blintz Soufflé

While the traditional Blintz Soufflé is made with a cheese filling, there are many variations that can suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Some may prefer adding fruit fillings, such as raspberry or strawberry, to the cheese mixture, offering a sweet burst of flavor that contrasts nicely with the creamy base. For a more decadent version, some people add a touch of vanilla extract or citrus zest to enhance the depth of the dish.

If you’re looking to make this dish a bit lighter or cater to dietary restrictions, you can experiment with low-fat cheeses, dairy-free alternatives, or even gluten-free flour. Many chefs and home cooks alike enjoy modifying Blintz Soufflé to fit their needs, which makes it a versatile dish for a variety of diets.

Another variation is to serve it with different toppings. While blueberry sauce is a classic choice, you could also opt for a fresh berry compote, maple syrup, or even a dusting of powdered sugar. The possibilities for customization make Blintz Soufflé an incredibly flexible dish that can be adapted to fit any occasion or personal preference.

Tips for Preparing Blintz Soufflé

To ensure your Blintz Soufflé turns out perfectly, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, it’s important to use room-temperature ingredients for both the batter and the cheese filling. This helps the ingredients combine smoothly, ensuring a consistent texture throughout the dish. Additionally, when mixing the batter, be careful not to over-mix it, as this can lead to a dense soufflé rather than a light, airy one.

It’s also recommended to bake the soufflé in a well-buttered dish to prevent sticking. If you’re preparing the dish ahead of time, allow it to chill in the fridge overnight, which will help the flavors meld and make the soufflé even fluffier once baked. Be sure to watch it closely in the oven, as cooking times can vary depending on the size of the dish and the temperature of your oven.

For the blueberry sauce, using fresh or frozen blueberries is ideal, but you can also substitute other fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile. Simmer the fruit with a bit of sugar and lemon juice until it thickens to your desired consistency. This homemade fruit sauce adds a homemade touch that elevates the dish, making it feel extra special.

Health Considerations

Although Blintz Soufflé is a rich and indulgent dish, there are ways to make it a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor. For example, using part-skim or reduced-fat cheese can help lower the calorie count while still providing that creamy texture. If you’re concerned about sugar, consider using a sugar substitute or reducing the amount of sweetener in the fruit sauce.

As with any indulgent dish, Blintz Soufflé should be enjoyed in moderation, especially when paired with rich toppings like syrup or whipped cream. However, the protein content from the cheese and eggs provides a satisfying and filling meal, making it a good choice for a substantial brunch or breakfast option.

Conclusion

Blintz Soufflé is a versatile and luxurious dish that combines the rich, creamy texture of traditional blintzes with the light, airy qualities of a soufflé. It’s an ideal choice for special occasions and holiday meals, offering a delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors. Whether you prefer the classic cheese filling or like to experiment with fruit variations, this dish is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite addition to your brunch repertoire.