LEPINJE — SOFT, FLAT BALKAN BUNS PERFECT FOR SANDWICHES AND BURGERS

These flattened buns, called Lepinje, hail from Croatian and Serbian traditions. Known for their soft texture and ideal shape, they’re perfect for sandwiches, burgers, or alongside ćevapčići (Balkan minced meat sausages similar to Romanian mici). Whether grilled or baked, these buns bring authentic Balkan flair to your table.

🕒 Prep Time: 15 min (plus rising)

⏲️ Baking Time: 15 min
🍽️ Yields: 6 buns

Ingredients

450 g all-purpose flour
1 packet dry yeast (7 g)
260 ml warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil + extra for brushing
1 tablespoon sugar
1 heaping teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

With bread machine: Add all ingredients to the machine and use the dough/knead and rise program.
By hand: Dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Combine with flour, salt, and olive oil. Knead by hand until elastic and dough pulls away from hands. Cover and let rise in a warm place for at least 1 hour.

2. Shape the Buns

Divide the risen dough into 6 equal portions (~100 g each).
To shape each bun, pull the dough edges underneath so the top is smooth and rounded.
Place each bun rounded side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet dusted lightly with flour.
Cover with a plastic bag.
Using a rolling pin or wooden bat, press down firmly on each bun to flatten it into a disc shape.

3. Proof and Bake

Brush buns lightly with olive oil.
Cover and let rise for another hour in a warm place.
Preheat oven to 220°C (430°F).
Place a pot of water on the bottom rack to create steam.
Bake buns for 15 minutes.

4. Finish with Grill (Optional)

Because baking time is short, buns might come out pale.
To get a golden top, switch oven to grill mode and grill buns for 1–2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

💡 Tips

Using a bread machine makes kneading and rising effortless.
The steam bath keeps buns soft and moist inside with a crisp crust.
Pressing buns flat ensures the classic Lepinje shape.

🎉 Perfect For

Authentic Balkan sandwiches and burgers
Serving alongside grilled ćevapčići or other meats
Picnic or casual weekend lunches

📝 Final Thoughts

Lepinje buns are a delicious, soft, and easy-to-make bread that adds a traditional Balkan touch to your sandwiches and grilled dishes. Their light texture and perfect shape make them ideal for both casual and festive meals.