10 Best Balkan Bakery Foods in Chicago (2025)

As the proud owner of Balkan Bakery, I’ve had the privilege of sharing the rich flavors of our heritage with the Chicago community. Balkan cuisine is so much more than food—it’s a celebration of culture, tradition, and family. Whether you’re craving something sweet, savory, or a little bit of both, there’s a Balkan treat that’s sure to hit the spot. Today, I’m excited to take you on a delicious journey through my personal top 10 favorite Balkan bakery foods, all of which you can find right here in Chicago.

1. Burek

If you’re new to Balkan cuisine, burek is the perfect place to start. This flaky, savory pastry is a staple across the Balkans, and for good reason. Made with layers of delicate phyllo dough and stuffed with your choice of fillings like cheese, spinach, or ground beef, burek is the ultimate comfort food. At Balkan Bakery, our burek is baked fresh daily, and I love pairing it with a side of tangy yogurt for the full experience. Trust me, one bite and you’ll see why burek is a fan favorite.

2. Jaffa Cake

The Jaffa cake is one of our best-sellers, and honestly, it’s one of my personal weaknesses! This dessert is a perfect mix of light sponge cake, zesty orange jelly, and a rich chocolate coating. It’s not overly sweet, which makes it easy to eat more than one (or three). Customers often tell me it reminds them of their childhood, and I love how something so simple can bring so much joy. If you’ve never tried it, you’re missing out on a classic Balkan treat.

3. Kinder Cake

I have to admit, the Kinder cake is the dessert I sneak a slice of after a long day at the bakery. Inspired by the beloved Kinder chocolate bars, this cake is a creamy, chocolatey dream. It’s layered with fluffy sponge cake, a velvety milk filling, and a smooth chocolate glaze. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, Kinder cake is always a good idea.

4. Bajadera

Bajadera pralines are a true symbol of Balkan hospitality and tradition. These luxurious, nutty confections are made with a blend of hazelnuts, almonds, and rich chocolate. They’re often served during holidays like Slava, Christmas, and Easter, but honestly, I think they’re perfect any time of year. At Balkan Bakery, we make our Bajadera fresh, and it’s always a hit with customers looking for something elegant and indulgent.

5. Cevapi Rolls

If savory is more your style, you have to try our cevapi rolls. Cevapi are small, flavorful sausages made from a blend of ground beef and lamb, seasoned with garlic and spices. At the bakery, we’ve put a twist on the traditional dish by wrapping them in soft, flatbread lepinja bread. They’re perfect for lunch on the go or as a hearty snack. Add a dollop of kajmak (a creamy dairy spread) for the ultimate flavor explosion.

6. Plazma Cake

Plazma biscuits are a beloved Balkan pantry staple, and we’ve turned them into a decadent dessert with our Plazma cake. This no-bake treat is layered with crushed Plazma biscuits, creamy custard, and whipped cream. It’s light, refreshing, and always a crowd-pleaser. I love seeing the look on customers’ faces when they take their first bite—it’s like they’re transported straight to the Balkans.

7. Crepes

Crepes may not be exclusive to the Balkans, but we’ve definitely made them our own. At Balkan Bakery, we offer a variety of sweet and savory crepes, and they’re a huge hit with customers. My personal favorite is the Nutella crepe, filled with fresh strawberries, nutella and drizzled with rich chocolate sauce. If you’re in the mood for something savory, our ham and cheese crepe is equally delicious. Crepes are a versatile treat that can be enjoyed any time of day.

8. Oblande

One of the most nostalgic desserts in Balkan cuisine is oblande. This no-bake layered wafer cake is made with thin, crispy wafer sheets filled with a creamy, nutty caramel filling. It’s simple yet incredibly satisfying, and it’s a dessert that reminds so many of their childhoods. At Balkan Bakery, we make oblande using premium ingredients like California walnuts and Belgian cacao to ensure every bite is as delicious as it is authentic.

9. Baklava

Baklava is a dessert that needs no introduction. This rich, sticky pastry is made with layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and a sweet honey syrup. At Balkan Bakery, we make our baklava with a mix of walnuts and pistachios for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a labor of love, but the end result is so worth it. Pair it with a cup of strong Turkish coffee for an authentic Balkan experience.

10. Gelato

Last but certainly not least, let’s talk about gelato. While it might not be a traditional Balkan dessert, it’s become a beloved addition to our menu. We offer a variety of flavors, but my personal favorite is the pistachio gelato. It’s creamy, nutty, and incredibly satisfying. On a hot summer day, there’s nothing better than a scoop (or two) of our homemade gelato.

Why Balkan Bakery Stands Out in Chicago

At Balkan Bakery, we’re passionate about bringing the flavors of the Balkans to Chicago. Every item on our menu is made with love, using recipes that have been passed down through generations. We source the finest ingredients, many of which are imported directly from the Balkans, to ensure an authentic taste. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Balkan cuisine or trying it for the first time, we’re here to make sure you leave with a smile (and a full stomach).

One of my favorite things about running the bakery is hearing stories from customers about how our food reminds them of home. It’s a reminder of why we do what we do—to keep these traditions alive and share them with our community. And with the growing popularity of Balkan cuisine, I’m thrilled to see more people discovering and falling in love with these incredible flavors.

Visit Us Today

If you’re in Chicago and looking to try the best Balkan bakery foods in town, we’d love to welcome you to Balkan Bakery. From savory burek to sweet Bajadera pralines, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And if you’re not sure where to start, just ask—I’m always happy to share recommendations!

Thank you for joining me on this journey through the 10 best Balkan bakery foods in Chicago. I hope it’s inspired you to stop by and experience the flavors of the Balkans for yourself. See you soon!