Israeli Sweet Cheese Levivot

Orly Ziv
Recipe by
Orly Ziv

While the term levivot technically refers to the potato pancakes so common at Hanukkah, this version with sweet cheese is a fun variation that's perfect for dessert. Serve it with sour cream or applesauce, depending on whether you feel like something more sweet or savory.

Ingredients
PANCAKES:
500 grams (16 ounces) quark or ricotta cheese
150 millileters (5 ounces) yogurt
⅓ cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 tablespoons raisins (optional)
2 tablespoons brandy
2 eggs
5 tablespoons flour
50 grams (2 ounces) butter
¼ cup canola oil
Powdered sugar
................................................................
TOPPINGS:
Sour cream or applesauce
Directions
  1. Put the cheese, yogurt, sugar, vanilla extract, raisins (if using), brandy, eggs, and flour in a large bowl and mix until smooth.
  2. Let the mixture rest in the fridge for 30 minutes.
  3. Heat the butter and oil in a wide pan.
  4. For each pancake, spoon about 1/4 cup of batter into the hot pan. Work in batches so as not to crowd the pan. Fry on both sides until golden and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
  5. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and serve with sour cream or applesauce.

Reprinted with permission from Cook in Israel: Home Cooking Inspiration by Orly Ziv. 

Learn more about global Hanukkah cuisine and find additional recipes.