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Fluffy Fire-Kissed Balkan Flatbread (Croatian Lepinja)

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  • Prep Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 23 minutes
  • Yield: 12 flatbreads 1x
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Croatian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Croatian Lepinja Bread is a soft, pillowy flatbread with a slightly crisp crust, perfect for sandwiches or dipping. This traditional Balkan bread is baked at high heat for a quick rise and signature texture.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups sifted bread flour
  • 1 packet dry active yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup whole milk, lukewarm
  • 2 1/3 cups water, lukewarm
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to the lowest temperature setting (160–175°F) and move the rack to the lowest position.
  2. Warm milk slightly, mix with sugar in a stand mixer bowl, then sprinkle yeast on top.
  3. Let yeast foam for 5–10 minutes, then add salt and lukewarm water.
  4. Using the bread hook, mix on low while adding flour one cup at a time.
  5. Knead for 6–8 minutes until the dough is sticky. Cover and proof in the oven for 1 hour.
  6. Punch down the dough, fold it over, cover again, and return to the oven for 30 minutes.
  7. Line baking sheets. Divide dough into 12 pieces, shape into rounds, and flatten slightly.
  8. Proof in the oven for 20 more minutes, then bake at 550°F for 6 minutes per sheet.
  9. Broil for 1–2 minutes for golden color, then cool before serving.

Notes

  • This dough is meant to be sticky; avoid adding extra flour.
  • Use high heat to get the characteristic puff and softness.
  • Perfect when paired with grilled meats or used as sandwich bread.
  • Can be frozen and reheated in the oven.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 flatbread
  • Calories: 190
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 1g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg