Prekmurska Gibanica

Prekmurska Gibanica – delicious Slovenian layered pastry
Slovenia
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Prekmurska Gibanica is a beloved Slovenian dessert known for its rich layers of poppy seeds, cottage cheese, and apples, all enveloped in delicate phyllo dough. This traditional dish is particularly popular during festive occasions and family gatherings, symbolizing hospitality and celebration in Slovenian culture. Its unique combination of flavors makes it a must-try for anyone exploring the culinary treasures of Slovenia.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~350 kcal / serving

Ingredients

  • For the Dough:
  • 1 package (16 sheets) phyllo dough, thawed
  • 1/2 cup melted butter (for brushing)
  • For the Poppy Seed Layer:
  • 1 cup ground poppy seeds
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • For the Cottage Cheese Layer:
  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the Walnut Layer:
  • 1 cup ground walnuts
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • For the Apple Layer:
  • 2 cups grated apples
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • For the Sour Cream Layer:
  • 2 cups sour cream
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs

Instructions

Prepare the Poppy Seed Layer

In a medium saucepan, combine the ground poppy seeds, sugar, milk, and cinnamon.

Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.

Remove from heat and let it cool.

Prepare the Cottage Cheese Layer

In a medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.

Mix until smooth and set aside.

Prepare the Walnut Layer

In a medium saucepan, combine the ground walnuts, sugar, and milk.

Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.

Remove from heat and let it cool.

Prepare the Apple Layer

In a medium bowl, combine the grated apples, sugar, and cinnamon.

Mix well and set aside.

Prepare the Sour Cream Layer

In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, sugar, and eggs.

Mix until smooth and set aside.

Assemble the Gibanica

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Place one sheet of phyllo dough in the baking dish and brush it with melted butter. Repeat with three more sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each with melted butter.

Spread the poppy seed mixture evenly over the phyllo dough.

Layer four more sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each with melted butter.

Spread the cottage cheese mixture evenly over the phyllo dough.

Layer four more sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each with melted butter.

Spread the walnut mixture evenly over the phyllo dough.

Layer four more sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each with melted butter.

Spread the apple mixture evenly over the phyllo dough.

Pour half of the sour cream mixture over the apple layer and spread evenly.

Layer the remaining sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each with melted butter.

Pour the remaining sour cream mixture over the top layer of phyllo dough and spread evenly.

Bake the Gibanica

Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set.

If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.

Cool and Serve

Let the gibanica cool in the baking dish before cutting into squares or slices.

Enjoy your meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Prekmurska Gibanica?

Prekmurska Gibanica is a layered dessert from Slovenia featuring poppy seeds, cottage cheese, and apples between sheets of phyllo dough.

Where does Prekmurska Gibanica come from?

Prekmurska Gibanica originates from the Prekmurje region in northeastern Slovenia, where it has been a traditional dish for generations.

What are the main ingredients in Prekmurska Gibanica?

Key ingredients include phyllo dough, ground poppy seeds, cottage cheese, sugar, milk, apples, and cinnamon.

How long does Prekmurska Gibanica take to make?

Prekmurska Gibanica takes approximately 120-150 minutes to prepare and bake.

What do you serve with Prekmurska Gibanica?

Serve Prekmurska Gibanica with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.