RecipesBulgariaBulgarian Baked Yogurt with Honey and Walnuts

Bulgarian Baked Yogurt with Honey and Walnuts

A simple yet elegant dessert made from thick, strained yogurt that is baked until slightly set, then drizzled with local honey and topped with crunchy walnuts.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Servings4
DifficultyEasy
Bulgarian Baked Yogurt with Honey and Walnuts - Bulgaria traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 750 g Bulgarian yogurt(full-fat, strained (e.g., Greek-style))
  • 4 tbsp Honey(plus more for drizzling)
  • 50 g Walnuts(chopped)
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract(optional)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F).

    💡 Tip: A moderate temperature is key to prevent curdling.
  2. 2

    In a bowl, gently whisk together the strained yogurt, 4 tablespoons of honey, and vanilla extract (if using) until well combined. Be careful not to overmix.

    💡 Tip: Using a good quality, thick yogurt is essential for texture.
  3. 3

    Pour the yogurt mixture into individual ramekins or a small baking dish.

  4. 4

    Place the ramekins/dish in a larger baking pan. Carefully pour hot water into the larger pan to create a water bath (bain-marie), ensuring the water comes halfway up the sides of the ramekins/dish.

    💡 Tip: The water bath ensures gentle, even cooking and a creamy texture.
  5. 5

    Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is just slightly wobbly.

    💡 Tip: Do not overbake, as it will become rubbery.
  6. 6

    Carefully remove the ramekins/dish from the water bath and let them cool to room temperature.

    💡 Tip: Allowing it to cool helps it set further.
  7. 7

    Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

    💡 Tip: Chilling is crucial for the final texture.
  8. 8

    Before serving, drizzle generously with extra honey and sprinkle with chopped walnuts.

    💡 Tip: Serve chilled.

💡 Pro Tips

  • For a richer flavor, use a good quality, locally sourced honey.
  • If you don't have strained yogurt, you can strain regular full-fat yogurt through cheesecloth for several hours.
  • A pinch of cinnamon can be added to the yogurt mixture for extra warmth.

🔄 Variations

  • Add a few fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries on top.
  • Sprinkle with toasted slivered almonds instead of walnuts.
  • For a more decadent version, add a tablespoon of heavy cream to the yogurt mixture.

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