Traditional Serbian Šape (Walnut Paw Cookies)

Traditional Serbian Šape (Walnut Paw Cookies), or Šape (shah-pay), are a beloved traditional treat enjoyed throughout Serbia and across the Balkans. The word šapa simply translates to “paw,” a name inspired by the small, ridged moulds used to give these cookies their distinctive shape.

Made with simple staples like butter, sugar, eggs, flour and walnuts, Šape are often prepared for any occasion, from celebrations to coffee dates with your friends. Traditionally made with lard, they can also be made with butter for a wonderfully rich flavour. Similar to a delicate shortbread, freshly baked Šape are buttery, sweet, nutty and incredibly aromatic, with a tender, crumbly texture that simply melts in your mouth!

What Are Serbian Šape?

Why are they called Šape / Walnut Paw Cookies? The name comes from their distinctive shape, created by the small ridged moulds they’re traditionally baked in. The ridges are said to resemble a bear’s paw, which is how Šape got their name.

I’m very lucky to have the old baking moulds my mother passed down to me, which originally belonged to my grandmother (my dad’s mother). The baking moulds are old, but they are super sturdy and have truly stood the test of time. These very moulds travelled with our family all the way to New Zealand when we first moved here almost 26 years ago now. Along with the traditional paw shape, I also have heart and crescent-shaped moulds. I remember my mother using them often when I was growing up, so they hold many special childhood memories for me.

Šape moulds come in a variety of shapes, but if you do not have any you can find them here. You can also use Madeleine tins to make Walnut Paw Cookies.

How to Make Serbian Šape

To make the dough for these delicious Serbian Šape / Walnut Paw Cookies all you need is ONE BOWL. Cream the butter, sugar and vanilla sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs and lemon zest, then gradually mix in the flour, baking powder and salt. Fold through the ground walnuts, then refrigerate the dough for at least 15 minutes.

Lightly grease and flour the moulds, then press the dough evenly into each one, smoothing the tops. Place the moulds on a baking tray and bake at 180°C for about 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Cool for 10 minutes before carefully removing from the moulds, then finish with a generous coating of powdered sugar.

Šape keep well in a closed container in a cool dry place for about one month. 

FAQ

Can I make Šape without traditional moulds?

Yes. Traditional Šape are baked in small metal moulds that give the cookies their distinctive paw-like shape, but you can still make them without traditional Šape moulds. The Šape moulds passed down from my grandmother come in several different shapes, which I love. Small Madeleine tins or similar individual cookie moulds can be used as an alternative. The shape will be different, but you’ll still get the same delicious walnut flavour and crumbly texture.

Can I use butter instead of lard for Šape?

Yes. Traditional Šape are often made with lard, which gives the cookies their characteristic tender and crumbly texture. Butter can be used instead and will give the cookies a slightly richer, buttery flavour. This recipe uses butter as lard is not easily available. Both work well, so you can use whichever you prefer or have available.

How long do Serbian Šape keep?

Šape keep well in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to one month. Keep them in a cool, dry place and allow the cookies to cool completely before storing. Their long shelf life makes them particularly convenient for holidays, celebrations and preparing desserts in advance.

Can Šape be made ahead of time?

Absolutely. Šape are an excellent make-ahead dessert because they keep well and remain delicious for weeks when stored correctly. You can prepare them several days or even a couple of weeks before Christmas, a celebration or family gathering and store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve them.

Looking for more recipes?

If you are looking for more ideas, try one of the recipes below:

Vanilice / Vanilla Cookies

Chocolate & Rum Balls

Ledene Kocke / Ice Cubes

I hope you enjoy these delicious Traditional Serbian Šape (Walnut Paw Cookies). They are so easy to make and great to whip up at any time. Šape taste even better the next day! I store mine in an air-tight container. If you give this Serbian Šape / Walnut Paws recipe a try, be sure to leave your thoughts below or reach out over on Instagram. I would love to see how this recipe turned out for you.

Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram @bitemykitchen___ or drop a comment below to let me know how it turned out. You can also find me over on TikTok. Sharing these recipes keeps the tradition alive — one slice at a time.