Lepinja (Balkan Flatbread)

Name: Lepinja (Balkan Flatbread)
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: Makes six servings
Cuisine: Balkan
Ingredients: 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast; 3/4 cup lukewarm water; 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup lukewarm milk; 2 tablespoons sunflower or vegetable oil

Published: January 31, 2026

by Aileen Reed

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can master Lepinja.
Soft and Fluffy Texture: The yeast-based dough results in a light bread that complements various dishes beautifully.
Versatile Use: Enjoy it as a side with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a base for creative toppings.
Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields six pieces, making it ideal for gatherings or family meals.
Quick Prep Time: With only 30 minutes of active prep time, you can have fresh flatbread ready in no time.

Tools and Preparation

To make Lepinja effectively, having the right tools will enhance your baking experience. Here are the essential items you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Stand mixer with dough hook
Large bowl
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Baking sheets

Importance of Each Tool

Stand Mixer with Dough Hook: Saves time and effort when kneading the dough, ensuring a smooth and elastic finish.
Large Bowl: Provides ample space for mixing ingredients without making a mess.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures precise measurements for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

A recipe for Lepinja (Balkan Flatbread)! This soft and fluffy yeast-based bread is perfect for pairing with ćevapi.

For the Dough

2 1/4 teaspoons (7 grams) active dry yeast
3/4 cup (180 milliliters) lukewarm water (105-115˚F (40-46˚C))
4 cups (500 grams) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup (180 milliliters) lukewarm milk (105-115˚F (40-46˚C))
2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) sunflower or vegetable oil

How to Make Lepinja (Balkan Flatbread)

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, sprinkle the yeast over the lukewarm water. Stir briefly to combine, then allow to rest at room temperature until frothy, about 5-10 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with a dough hook or in a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Slowly mix in the frothy yeast mixture along with milk and oil until you form a cohesive dough. Adjust by adding more flour or water if necessary.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough until it becomes soft and elastic. Place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rest at room temperature until doubled in size—around 45 minutes to an hour.

Step 4: Second Rise

After punching down the dough to remove air bubbles, cover it again and let rise for another 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Step 5: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 480˚F (250˚C). Lightly grease two baking sheets with oil.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Divide the risen dough into six equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball with the seam side down. Cover these balls with a cloth and let them rest for about 10 minutes.

Step 7: Flatten Dough Balls

Using your hands, gently press each ball into a flattened round disc. Transfer them to your prepared baking sheets and cover again. Allow them to rest for an additional 15 minutes.

Step 8: Score the Tops

Using the dull side of a knife, press lines across each disc-shaped dough to create an appealing square or diamond pattern on top.

Step 9: Bake

Place in your preheated oven and bake until golden brown—typically between 8-12 minutes.

Step 10: Cool Down

Once baked, remove from the oven. Immediately sprinkle water on top of each flatbread and wrap them in a towel. This keeps them soft as they cool.

Storage Tips

Though Lepinje is best enjoyed freshly baked on the same day, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days after cooling down.

How to Serve Lepinja (Balkan Flatbread)

Lepinja is a versatile bread that pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Whether you are enjoying it with grilled meats or as a base for delicious toppings, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With Grilled Meats

Ćevapi: This classic Balkan dish consists of minced meat rolled into small sausages. Serve the Lepinja alongside for a complete meal.
Grilled Chicken: Tender pieces of grilled chicken can be wrapped in Lepinja for a savory and filling sandwich.
Lamb Skewers: Juicy lamb skewers complement the soft texture of Lepinja, creating a satisfying contrast.

As a Base for Spreads

Hummus: Spread creamy hummus on warm Lepinja for a tasty appetizer or snack.
Tzatziki: This yogurt-based sauce pairs well with Lepinja, offering a refreshing taste alongside grilled meats.
Roasted Red Pepper Dip: A flavorful roasted red pepper dip can be served on top of Lepinja for an exciting flavor combination.

With Salads

Greek Salad: The crunchy vegetables and tangy feta cheese in Greek salad balance perfectly with the soft texture of Lepinja.
Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad adds a crisp contrast when served with warm flatbread.

How to Perfect Lepinja (Balkan Flatbread)

Creating the perfect Lepinja requires attention to detail and following some key tips. Here’s how to ensure your flatbread turns out fluffy and delicious every time.

Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh and active. If it doesn’t froth in lukewarm water, it may be too old.
Knead Thoroughly: Knead the dough until it’s soft and elastic. This ensures the gluten develops, giving the bread its desired texture.
Rest Properly: Allowing the dough to rest until doubled in size helps achieve that light, airy quality characteristic of great flatbread.
Monitor Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven properly before baking. A hot oven is essential to get that beautiful crust on your Lepinja.
Cover After Baking: Wrapping the baked bread in a towel keeps it soft by trapping steam, preventing it from drying out.

Best Side Dishes for Lepinja (Balkan Flatbread)

Pairing side dishes with Lepinja enhances your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside this delightful flatbread.

Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection adds vibrant colors and flavors that complement Lepinja.
Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice and spices make for a hearty accompaniment that balances the softness of the bread.
Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed salad made with chickpeas, herbs, and lemon juice offers freshness and nutrition alongside the flatbread.
Sautéed Spinach: Simple sautéed spinach seasoned with garlic provides a nutritious green side that pairs well with any main dish.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs bring additional crunch to your meal while being easy to prepare.
Pickles: A selection of pickled vegetables adds tanginess, enhancing the overall dining experience when served with warm Lepinja.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lepinja (Balkan Flatbread), there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

Incorrect yeast activation: If the yeast isn’t frothy after resting, it may be inactive. Always check the temperature of the water to ensure it’s lukewarm for successful activation.
Too much or too little flour: Adding too much flour can make the dough dry. Start with less and gradually add more only if needed to achieve the right consistency.
Insufficient kneading: Failing to knead the dough properly can result in dense bread. Ensure you knead until soft and elastic for a light texture.
Not allowing enough rest time: Skipping the resting periods will prevent your bread from rising properly. Give the dough enough time to double in size for optimal fluffiness.
Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven correctly before baking for best results.
Skipping the moisture step: Failing to sprinkle water on baked bread and covering it with a towel can lead to a crusty texture. This step is crucial for keeping your Lepinja soft.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Lepinja in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
They will last for up to 3 days while maintaining freshness.

Freezing Lepinja (Balkan Flatbread)

Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Frozen Lepinja can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Lepinja (Balkan Flatbread)

Oven: Preheat to 350˚F (175˚C) and bake for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts of 15 seconds until warm.
Stovetop: Heat on a skillet over medium-low heat, flipping occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lepinja (Balkan Flatbread)?

Lepinja is a traditional Balkan flatbread known for its soft, fluffy texture, making it perfect for pairing with various dishes, especially grilled meats.

How do I serve Lepinja?

Lepinja is versatile and can be served with ćevapi or used as a wrap for sandwiches. It also goes well with dips and spreads.

Can I customize my Lepinja?

Absolutely! You can add herbs or spices like rosemary or garlic powder into the dough for extra flavor.

How do I store leftover Lepinja?

To keep leftover Lepinja fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them if you plan to keep them longer.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to inactive yeast or cold temperatures. Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature and give it more time.

Final Thoughts

Lepinja (Balkan Flatbread) is not only delicious but also versatile. Its soft texture makes it an excellent accompaniment to many meals, from grilled meats to salads. Feel free to experiment with flavors and pairings that suit your taste!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card