Description
Cretan Honey Pancakes Stuffed, known as Sfakianopites, are traditional Greek sweet pancakes filled with a creamy honey-infused cheese mixture. These golden, pan-fried delights are crisp on the outside and soft inside, drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon and walnuts for a perfect breakfast or dessert treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pancake Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water (more as needed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Filling:
- 1 cup soft cheese (like Greek myzithra, ricotta, or cream cheese)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
For Frying and Topping:
- Olive oil or neutral oil (for frying)
- 1/4 cup honey (for drizzling)
- Ground cinnamon, to taste
- Chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add warm water and olive oil while stirring, forming a soft dough. Knead the dough for 5–6 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes to relax the gluten.
- Make the Filling: In a small bowl, blend the soft cheese with honey and cinnamon until you achieve a smooth, uniform mixture. Set this aside for stuffing.
- Shape the Pancakes: Divide the rested dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a thin circle approximately 6 inches in diameter. Spoon a portion of the cheese filling into the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges carefully by pressing with your fingers or a fork to prevent filling leakage.
- Pan-Fry the Pancakes: Heat a thin layer of olive or neutral oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the stuffed pancakes in batches for 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and develop a crispy exterior. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve: While still warm, drizzle the pancakes generously with honey, sprinkle ground cinnamon on top, and optionally garnish with chopped walnuts. Serve immediately to enjoy their fresh, crispy texture and sweet, creamy filling.
Notes
- These sweet stuffed pancakes are traditionally called “Sfakianopites” in Crete and are typically made with local cheeses like myzithra and local thyme honey for authentic flavor.
- They are best enjoyed warm and immediately after frying to preserve their crisp texture and creamy filling.
- Can be served as a breakfast item or a dessert treat.
- Use neutral oil like sunflower or canola oil if you prefer a milder frying flavor over olive oil.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, but note the texture may vary.
