Ćupavci (Bosnian Coconut-Chocolate Squares)
In Bosnia, no celebration feels complete without a plate of Ćupavci on the table. These tender sponge cake cubes dipped in chocolate and rolled in coconut are the kind of dessert that make guests feel instantly at home. They’re simple to make, beautiful to serve, and even better to share.
Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or a casual coffee visit, these sweet little squares carry the essence of Balkan hospitality: generous, comforting, and made to be enjoyed together.
What You’ll Need
Servings: About 24 squares (depending on how large you cut them)
Total Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
For the sponge cake:
4 large eggs
200 g (1 cup) sugar
120 ml (½ cup) milk
120 ml (½ cup) sunflower oil (or neutral oil)
250 g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
1 ½ tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the chocolate dip:
200 g (1 cup) sugar
250 ml (1 cup) milk
100 g (1 stick) butter
100 g dark chocolate, chopped
For coating:
200 g (2 cups) desiccated coconut
How To Make It
Make the sponge cake:
Preheat your oven to 180°C / 350°F. Grease and line a rectangular baking dish (about 9x13 inch).
In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy.
Stir in the milk, oil, and vanilla.
Sift together the flour and baking powder, then gently fold into the wet mixture.
Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
Let the cake cool completely, then cut into small squares (about 1.5x1.5 in).
Prepare the chocolate dip:
In a saucepan, combine sugar, milk, butter, and chocolate.
Stir gently over medium heat until smooth and glossy. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly (it should still be liquid, but not too hot).
Coat the cake:
Dip each sponge square into the chocolate mixture, making sure all sides are coated.
Roll immediately in desiccated coconut until evenly covered.
Place on a tray lined with parchment to set.
Serving Host Mode On Style ✨
Arrange Ćupavci on a pretty plate or cake stand—they look especially inviting in neat rows.
Serve alongside strong coffee (kafa) or tea, just like in Bosnia.
Wrap a few pieces in foil or a small box to send home with your guests—because no one should leave empty-handed.
These little chocolate-coconut cubes are more than a dessert—they’re a memory of family gatherings, laughter, and the open-handed spirit of the Balkans.
Host Mode On Tip: Make a double batch. Ćupavci keep well for several days, and they taste even better the next day when the flavors settle in.