Serbian Cheese Uštipci

Serbian Cheese Uštipci are not only a staple in so many Serbian homes, but also in restaurants and other neighboring countries. Pronounced as “ush-teep-tsee”, these fried dough balls are a popular dish in different regions and often made in slight variations. Often made as an addition to breakfast or dinner, this comforting dish can easily be enjoyed any time. The recipe is for a cheesy and yeast-free version. One that comes together very quickly yet tastes so delicious and comforting. Make sure to eat these warm because that is when they taste their best!

About uštipci

If you didn’t already know, Uštipci are fried dough balls that are very popular in Serbia, Bosnia, Croatia, and Macedonia. In some regions they are called uštipci while in others, such as Slovenia, they are called miške. Uštipci are also often referred to as the extended version of mekike, made using a yeast dough, fried, and served with different types of cheese, dried meats or as sides to a main meal. However, there is a sweet variation as well. The dough is sweetened with sugar and served with jams, honey, and powdered sugar.

The cheese variation

From start to finish, you can make these Serbian Cheese Uštipci in less than an hour. Inspired by the way my mother and I have made uštipci in recent times, these uštipci require zero waiting time for the yeast to rise. Yet you still get that dough consistency in such little time. Sadly, I have not made uštipci for over a year now, but a sudden craving hit for this comforting dish, and I knew I had to share the recipe. In the last week, I made this recipe twice, so it turns out great! I love the addition of cheese. The plain uštipci are usually plain dough, whereas this version means you get a little melted cheese moment in each bite, and I love that!

Making the uštipci

You do not need an overwhelming amount of new ingredients for this recipe. Made with plain flour, baking powder, a little bit of salt, eggs, milk, and cottage cheese – it is all very basic. You can swap the cottage cheese for an equal amount of crumbed feta cheese, that works nicely too! All you need to do is measure the ingredients and mix them in one big bowl. The dough should turn out sticky and a little runny. This will help scooping out a spoonful of dough and frying it in hot oil.

Frying the cheese uštipci

If you have fried doughnuts or anything similar before, then this process should be a breeze. Heat up the 500 ml of vegetable oil, and once it is hot enough, fry two or three uštipci at a time. Beware not to overcrowd the pot. You do not have to worry about these being all the same shape. Simply use a tablespoon or an ice-cream scoop and drop it into the frying oil one by one. That is one of the things I love about these Serbian Cheese Uštipci. They are all different sizes and slightly irregular in shape. Fry each side for 30 seconds or up to 1 minute and dry on a paper towel or a clean kitchen towel.

Serve uštipci as soon as the entire batch has been fried. Enjoy with some ajvar, sour cream or smear some honey and jam to make it even tastier.

Looking for more?

If you are looking for other recipe ideas, maybe try one of these:

Lenja Pita / Lazy Apple Pie

Shopska Salad / Šopska Salata

Broccoli and Chutney Muffins

I hope that you end up loving these Serbian Cheese Uštipci . If you end up making them, you will understand why they are such a popular dish. Make sure to smear some sauce on the side and you will love them. Leave a comment below and let me know your thoughts. If you have a moment, please leave this recipe a rating. I would love to hear what you think, and if you make them, you can tag me over on Instagram.