Welcome back Friends!
Today I’m sharing one of my absolute favorite bread recipes — Lepinje, a soft and fluffy pita-style bread that’s a must-have in many Balkan homes. These are perfect for grilled meats, sandwiches, or simply warm from the oven with a bit of butter. Trust me — once you try these, you’ll want to make them again and again!
This recipe is easy to follow, and we’re using a stand mixer to make the process even simpler.
✨ What Are Lepinje?
Lepinje (pronounced LEH-peen-yeh) are traditional Balkan flatbreads — soft, slightly chewy, and puffed just enough to make them perfect for filling or dipping. Unlike thinner pita breads, lepinje are a little thicker and softer, ideal for hearty meals or enjoying on their own.
Ingredients
You’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
- 1 kilogram of flour
- 2 packets (14g) dry yeast or 1 cube fresh yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1–2 teaspoons salt
- 1 cup (250 ml) lukewarm water
- 300 ml lukewarm milk
- 250 grams plain yogurt or soured milk (like buttermilk or kefir)
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In the bowl of a stand mixer, add the lukewarm milk, sugar, and yeast.
Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy and activated.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
Add the flour, salt, lukewarm water, and yogurt into the yeast mixture.
Using the dough hook attachment, mix on low speed until combined, then knead on medium speed for about 8 to 10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
The dough will be slightly sticky but easy to handle — that’s exactly what you want.
Once the dough is ready, I like to lightly knead it by hand for about a minute — just to get a feel for the texture and make sure it’s soft, slightly sticky, but easy to handle.
Step 3: First Rise
Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Divide & Rest
Once risen, divide the dough into equal portions and gently shape them into small balls.
Do not knead again. Let the dough balls rest on the counter for 5 minutes.
Step 5: Flatten & Rest Again
Flatten each dough ball into a round bun, about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick.
Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them rest for another 5 to 10 minutes while your oven preheats.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
Lightly brush the tops of the buns with water, and if desired, score them gently with a sharp knife.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the buns are puffed and golden on top.
Step 7: Cool & Enjoy
Let them cool slightly before serving.
They’re best enjoyed warm — soft, fluffy, and full of homemade comfort.
🔁 Tips & Substitutions
- Yogurt Substitutes: You can use buttermilk or kefir instead of yogurt.
- By Hand: No stand mixer? Knead by hand for 10–12 minutes.
- Extra Soft Buns: Cover with a clean kitchen towel after baking to lock in softness.
- Freezer Friendly: Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.
❤️ Why You’ll Love These Lepinje
- Soft and pillowy inside with a beautiful golden crust
- Great for sandwiches, dipping, or alongside grilled dishes
- Simple pantry ingredients
- Authentic Balkan flavor made easy at home
📌 Save & Share
I hope you give these delicious Lepinje a try!
If you make them, tag me on Instagram @domesitc_diva76 — I love seeing your creations.
Don’t forget to pin this recipe, leave a comment below, and subscribe for more homemade favorites straight from my kitchen to yours.
Watch the step by step video:
HAPPY BAKING
SONJA
Life with sonja 
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