Ukrainian Breakfast Cheesecake. (Zapekanka)

2 cups (500 g) cottage cheese or farmer's cheese (drained if wet)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
1/4 cup (60 ml) sour cream or plain yogurt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (75 g) raisins (optional)
Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
2 tablespoons butter (for greasing the pan)
Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

Preheat your oven to 350°F.  In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, sugar, sour cream (or yogurt), vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt.  Use a hand mixer or food processor to blend the mixture until smooth. The mixture should be creamy but still have some texture from the cottage cheese.  If using raisins or lemon zest, fold them into the mixture gently.

Grease a round or square baking dish (about 8x8 inches or similar) with butter to prevent sticking.  Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.  Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Remove the zapekanka from the oven and let it cool in the baking dish for about 10-15 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.  Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar if desired. Cut into slices and serve warm or at room temperature.

Optional toppings:Fresh berries or fruit preserves, Honey or maple syrup,  A dollop of sour cream or whipped cream.  

Zapekanka is a traditional Ukrainian cheesecake made primarily with cottage cheese or farmer's cheese, giving it a creamy texture and rich flavor. This dessert is often enjoyed as a sweet treat for breakfast or dessert and can be topped with various fruits or drizzled with honey.