Lviv Cheesecake Recipe with Poppy Seeds and Raisins

Name: Lviv Cheesecake Recipe with Poppy Seeds and Raisins
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 145 min
Yield: 10 servings
Cuisine: Ukrainian
Ingredients: 500 g dry cottage cheese; 200 g granulated sugar; 3 whole large eggs; 100 g poppy seeds; 50 g all-purpose flour; 50 g cornstarch; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 100 g unsalted butter, melted and cooled; 50 g raisins; 1 pinch fine salt; 1 tsp lemon zest

Rich baked cottage cheese cheesecake with poppy seeds, raisins and vanilla.

By Savva LoginovUpdated October 5, 2026

Total 2 hr 25 minMakes 10 servings

Jump to Recipe

This baked Lviv-style cheesecake combines smooth cottage cheese with poppy seeds and raisins. Blend the cheese until fine, drain soaked poppy seeds thoroughly and cool the cheesecake gradually for a clean, tender slice. Soak poppy seeds in hot water 1 hour, then drain and press dry. Heat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a 20 cm springform pan. Press cottage cheese through a sieve or blend until smooth. Beat eggs with sugar and vanilla until pale. Mix in cheese and melted butter. Fold in poppy seeds, raisins, flour, cornstarch, salt and zest. Pour into pan and bake 50 to 60 minutes until edges are set and centre has a slight wobble. Turn oven off, crack door and cool cheesecake 30 minutes inside. Cool fully, then chill before slicing.

Lviv Cheesecake Recipe with Poppy Seeds and Raisins

How to tell when it is ready

Cook until tender, set or golden as described.

Tips

Measure ingredients before starting.
Use even-sized pieces for consistent cooking.
Taste and adjust seasoning near the end.
Cool leftovers promptly and refrigerate covered.

Troubleshooting

If the mixture is too thick, add liquid gradually.
If browning too quickly, lower the heat.

Substitutions

Use a suitable neutral oil if needed.
Choose a compatible dairy-free alternative where appropriate.

Variations

Adjust herbs or spices to taste.
Add citrus zest or juice for brightness.

Serving suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad.
Offer fresh herbs or a complementary sauce.
Pair with seasonal vegetables or fruit.
Serve warm for the best texture.

Make ahead

Measure ingredients ahead and refrigerate perishable components; finish shortly before serving.

Storage

Refrigerate promptly and use within 3 days.

Food safety

Contains dairy, wheat and egg. Keep cheesecake refrigerated.

Frequently asked questions

Can I prepare this ahead?

Prepare components ahead and refrigerate promptly.

How should I store lviv cheesecake with poppy seeds?

Refrigerate promptly and use within 3 days.

Serve promptly and store leftovers safely.

About the author

Savva Loginov

Savva Loginov writes about traditional Ukrainian cooking, including regional dishes, heritage baking and the customs behind familiar recipes. His English guides explain each dish’s context alongside clear, practical cooking instructions.

Lviv Cheesecake Recipe with Poppy Seeds and Raisins