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A dish that carries the soul of Serbian kitchens — layered, comforting, unforgettable.

Gibanica

A classic Serbian layered cheese pie made with filo pastry, eggs, yogurt, and tangy white cheese. Crispy on top, soft and rich inside — a staple of Serbian breakfasts, holidays, and family gatherings.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 45

Total Time 1 15

Course Baked Dishes, Breakfast, Dinner, Traditional Serbian

Cuisine Balkan, Eastern European, Serbian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

1 Mixing bowl
1 Whisk
1 Baking Pan
1 Pastry Brush
Oven

Ingredients

500 g filo pastry
400 g Serbian white cheese (or feta)
200 ml yogurt
100 ml sparkling water
100 ml oil
salt to taste

Instructions

Preheat oven to 200°C (390°F). Grease a baking pan with oil.
Crumble the white cheese into a bowl. Add yogurt, eggs, sparkling water, oil, and a pinch of salt. Mix until combined.
Layer 2–3 sheets of filo pastry into the pan, letting the edges hang over the sides.
Dip each remaining sheet into the cheese mixture, scrunch it lightly, and place it into the pan.
Repeat until all sheets and filling are used.
Fold the overhanging filo edges over the top and brush with the remaining mixture.
Bake for 40–45 minutes until golden and crisp.
Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.

Video

Notes

Gibanica can be made in many regional styles — drier and crisp, or softer and more custard‑like. If you prefer a fluffier texture, add a little extra sparkling water to the filling. For a richer version, mix in a spoonful of sour cream. Gibanica is traditionally served warm with a glass of yogurt and is often prepared for holidays, family gatherings, and weekend breakfasts.

Keyword balkan pastry, gibanica, serbian cheese pie, traditional serbian food

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Gibanica is one of Serbia’s most iconic comfort dishes — a golden, layered blend of tangy cheese, eggs, and delicate filo that bakes into a rich, rustic masterpiece. This recipe captures the true homemade flavor found in Serbian kitchens and village tables, with a perfect balance of crisp edges and soft, custardy layers inside. Whether served for breakfast, holidays, or as a warm slice of everyday tradition, this gibanica delivers authentic taste and the unmistakable soul of Serbian baking.

5/5