Go Back
Print Recipe

Vanilice Recipe (Serbian Vanilla Sandwich Cookies)

These traditional Serbian vanilla sandwich cookies are soft, buttery, and filled with sweet fruit jam before being dusted with powdered vanilla sugar. Perfect for holidays, celebrations, or enjoying with a cup of coffee.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Rest Time:8 hours
Total Time8 hours 45 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Serbia
Keyword: lard, sugar, white flour
Servings: 40 cookies
Calories: 165kcal

Ingredients

For the Cookies

  • 1 kg 8 cups all-purpose flour
  • 500 g 2 cups lard or unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 dl ¾ cup + 1 tablespoon plain yogurt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 packets vanilla sugar about 24 g total

For the Filling

  • 1 cup plum jam or apricot jam

For Coating

  • 1½ cups powdered sugar
  • 1 packet vanilla sugar optional

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 150°C (300°F) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, beat together the sugar and lard (or butter) until light and creamy.
  • Add the yogurt and mix until fully incorporated.
  • Gradually add the flour and vanilla sugar, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
  • Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and roll it out to approximately 5 mm (¼ inch) thickness.
  • Using a round cookie cutter or small glass, cut circles from the dough.
  • Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving a small amount of space between them.
  • Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the cookies are set and lightly golden around the edges. Do not overbake.
  • Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
  • Spread a small amount of plum or apricot jam onto the flat side of one cookie and top with another cookie to form a sandwich.
  • Combine the powdered sugar and vanilla sugar, then generously dust the assembled cookies.
  • Place the cookies in an airtight container and allow them to rest for several hours or overnight before serving for the best texture.

Notes

  • Traditional Serbian Vanilice are made with lard, which produces the most authentic texture.
  • Butter may be substituted for a slightly richer flavor.
  • Plum jam and apricot jam are the most traditional fillings.
  • The cookies become softer and more flavorful after resting overnight.
  • Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.