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Zagorski Štrukli: A Croatian Culinary Gem for Beginners

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Love pastry and cheese? Then you’ll love Zagorski Štrukli! This Croatian classic is a dream for beginners—simple ingredients, rich flavors, and a cozy, homemade feel. Whether you bake it for a golden crust or boil it for a softer bite, this dish is pure comfort on a plate. Follow our step-by-step guide and master this beloved treat straight from the heart of Croatia! 🥟🔥🇭🇷

#CroatianTreasure 🇭🇷 #StrukliLove ❤️ #CheeseFilledDelight 🧀 #FlakyAndGolden ✨ #BakingFromScratch 👩‍🍳 #TraditionalRecipes 🍽️ #HomemadeComfortFood 🥟 #EasyAndDelicious 😍 #TasteTheTradition 🌍 #FoodieHeaven 🤤

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) lukewarm water
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Filling:

  • 2 cups (500g) cottage cheese (or ricotta as an alternative)
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For Baking:

  • 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted

For Boiling (Optional Garnish):

  • 1/4 cup (30g) breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

  1. In a large bowl, mix flour and salt.
  2. Make a well in the center and add the egg, lukewarm water, and oil.
  3. Stir together until the dough forms a rough mass.
  4. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  5. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes to allow the gluten to relax.

Beginner Tip: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time. If it’s too dry, sprinkle a little water and knead again.

2. Make the Filling

  1. In a medium bowl, mix cottage cheese, egg, sour cream, and salt.
  2. Stir until fully combined. The mixture should be creamy but not runny.

3. Roll and Fill the Dough

  1. Lightly flour a work surface and roll out the dough into a thin rectangle, about 1/8 inch thick.
  2. Spread the filling evenly over the surface, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
  3. Carefully roll the dough into a log shape, similar to a strudel.
  4. Use the edge of a plate or a sharp knife to cut the log into equal pieces (about 2 inches wide).

Beginner Tip: When rolling out the dough, work gently to prevent tearing. If it sticks to the surface, dust with a little more flour.

4. Choose Your Cooking Method

Boiling Method (Classic and Delicate)

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil.
  2. Carefully drop the Štrukli into the water and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
  3. Remove with a slotted spoon and let drain.
  4. For extra flavor, melt butter in a pan and toast breadcrumbs until golden. Sprinkle over the boiled Štrukli before serving.

Baking Method (Creamy and Rich)

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Arrange the Štrukli in a greased baking dish.
  3. Pour sour cream and melted butter over the top to keep them moist.
  4. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

Notes

  • Dough Handling: If your dough tears while rolling, patch it with a tiny piece of extra dough and smooth it out gently.
  • Cooking Time Awareness: Boiled Štrukli float when they are done; do not overcook, or they will become too soft.
  • Crispy Topping (For Baked Version): Add a sprinkle of grated cheese before baking for an extra indulgent touch.
  • Storage: Cooked Štrukli can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat by baking or lightly pan-frying.

Troubleshooting:

  • If your dough is too dry and cracks, add a teaspoon of water and knead again.
  • If the filling leaks out while cutting, chill the dough for 10 minutes before slicing.