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Slovenian Gibanica Dessert

Gibanica is a layered Slovenian dessert made with poppy seeds, walnuts, apples, and creamy quark cheese. Each bite is soft, nutty, and slightly sweet, making it a comforting treat for family gatherings or weekend baking.
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Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Slovenian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the dough:
  • 500 g all-purpose flour
  • 250 g unsalted butter cold
  • 2 large eggs
  • 100 ml milk
  • Pinch of salt
For the fillings:
  • 200 g ground poppy seeds
  • 100 g chopped walnuts
  • 150 g sugar adjust per filling
  • 200 g quark cheese
  • 2 medium apples grated
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
For assembly and topping:
  • 100 ml cream
  • Butter for greasing
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
  1. In a bowl, mix flour and salt.
  2. Cut in cold butter until the mixture is crumbly.
  3. Add eggs and milk, knead lightly until smooth.
  4. Wrap in cling film and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Fillings
  1. Poppy seed filling: Mix ground poppy seeds with sugar and a little milk to make a paste.
  2. Nut filling: Mix walnuts with sugar and cinnamon.
  3. Cheese filling: Beat quark cheese with sugar and vanilla until smooth.
  4. Apple filling: Mix grated apples with sugar and cinnamon.
Step 3: Assemble Gibanica
  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Roll out half the dough and place in a greased baking dish.
  3. Spread a layer of poppy seed filling, then cheese, walnuts, and apples.
  4. Repeat layers if desired, finishing with a thin dough layer on top.
Step 4: Bake
  1. Bake for 45–50 minutes until golden brown.
  2. Let it cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

  • Use cold butter for flaky dough layers.
  • Let each layer rest for 5–10 minutes to prevent tearing.
  • Toast the walnuts lightly to boost flavor.
  • Slice into small squares for serving to highlight the layers.
  • Pairs well with coffee, tea, or light dessert wine.
  • Can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for 3 days or refrigerated for up to 1 week.