Leniwe, or Polish Lazy Pierogi, are soft dumplings made with farmer’s cheese, eggs, and flour. Perfect for a quick, cozy meal—sweet or savory!
You know those recipes that feel like a warm hug? The kind that instantly transports you to a slower, cozier moment? Leniwe is that dish for me.
The first time I made these Polish Lazy Pierogi, I was in college, missing home like crazy. My mom casually mentioned them on the phone, saying, “Oh, just make Leniwe! It’s easy.” Easy? Sure. But my first batch? A disaster. Flour everywhere, dough too sticky, and somehow the pierogi ended up looking more like blobs than dumplings. But they still tasted amazing—soft, cheesy, buttery goodness that melted in my mouth.
The next time I made them, I slowed down. Took my time rolling the dough. Let myself enjoy the process instead of rushing through it. And that’s when it clicked—Leniwe means “lazy” pierogi, but it’s the kind of lazy where you’re soaking in the simple moments, not cutting corners.
Now, I make these whenever I need a little comfort food magic. They’re buttery, cozy, and feel like a bite of home—whether you go sweet with cinnamon sugar or savory with golden breadcrumbs. Trust me, you need these in your life.
Why You’ll Love This Leniwe Recipe?
- Ridiculously Easy: No complicated folding or sealing—just mix, shape, and boil.
- Comfort Food Heaven: Soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up butter like a dream.
- Sweet or Savory: Breadcrumbs and butter? Amazing. Sugar and cinnamon? Also amazing.
- No Fancy Ingredients: Just a handful of basics—farmer’s cheese, flour, eggs, and butter.
- Perfect for Beginners: If you’re new to pierogi, this is the perfect place to start.
Ingredient Notes:
You don’t need anything fancy—just the good stuff you probably already have.
- Farmer’s Cheese: The heart of this recipe! Tangy, creamy, and perfect for dumplings. Can’t find it? Ricotta or dry cottage cheese works in a pinch.
- Flour: Just enough to hold things together. Too much? Heavy dumplings. Too little? Sticky mess.
- Eggs: Give structure and richness to the dough.
- Salt: Brings out the flavor in both sweet and savory versions.
- Butter: Melted and golden—because butter is the moment.
- Breadcrumbs: For that classic savory topping. Toasted in butter = next-level comfort.
- Sugar + Cinnamon: A sweet twist! Perfect for dessert or breakfast.
Pro Tip: If the dough feels sticky, add flour just a tablespoon at a time. Softer dough = softer dumplings.
How To Make Leniwe?
No stress. No fuss. Just buttery dumpling magic.
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a big bowl, combine the farmer’s cheese, flour, eggs, and salt. Mix it all together with a spoon (or your hands if you’re feeling rustic). You want a soft, slightly sticky dough—think playdough vibes but fluffier.
If it feels too wet, sprinkle in a little more flour. But don’t overdo it! We want soft, not tough.
Step 2: Shape the Dumplings
Lightly flour your counter and divide the dough into a few smaller sections.
Roll each section into a log—like you’re making those playdough snakes as a kid. Aim for about an inch thick.
Cut the logs into bite-sized pieces. No need to be perfect here. Some can be chunky, some thin—imperfections make them better.
Step 3: Cook the Dumplings
Bring a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
Gently drop the dumplings in (careful, don’t splash yourself like I did the first time) and let them cook. Once they float to the top—usually in 2-3 minutes—give them another minute or two.
Want To Save This Recipe?
Scoop them out with a slotted spoon and let them drain while we make the butter magic.
Step 4: Serve Them Up
Savory Style:
- Melt butter in a pan.
- Add breadcrumbs and toast until golden brown.
- Toss the cooked dumplings in the buttery breadcrumbs.
- Add a sprinkle of salt for extra coziness.
Sweet Style:
- Melt butter (yes, butter’s always part of the plan).
- Drizzle it over the warm dumplings.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar.
Pro Tip: Want to go all out? Serve with a dollop of sour cream or fruit compote. Trust me on this.
Storage Options:
If you do manage to resist eating them all in one sitting:
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze uncooked dumplings on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid.
- Reheat: Skip the microwave. Reheat in a buttered skillet for the best crispy edges.
Variations and Substitutions:
Feeling creative? Try these variations!
- Cheese Swap: No farmer’s cheese? Try ricotta or well-drained cottage cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend with xanthan gum.
- Savory Boost: Add fresh herbs like dill or chives to the dough.
- Sweet Boost: Stir a splash of vanilla extract into the dough for a dessert twist.
- Toppings: Try berry compote, caramel sauce, or even a drizzle of honey for a creative finish.
What to Serve with Leniwe?
Need some cozy side ideas?
- Savory: Perfect with kielbasa, roasted mushrooms, or caramelized onions.
- Sweet: Try with fresh berries, whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Brunch: Serve alongside scrambled eggs and bacon for the ultimate cozy breakfast.
- Holiday Spread: Add to a pierogi platter for a full Polish feast!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! Ricotta or dry cottage cheese works too. Just make sure it’s well-drained.
Why are my dumplings dense?
Probably too much flour or overworking the dough. Keep it soft and light!
Can I make the dough ahead?
Yes! Store it wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge for up to a day before shaping.
Honestly? Leniwe is comfort food in its purest form. Soft, buttery dumplings that feel like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you go sweet with cinnamon sugar or savory with golden breadcrumbs, they’re the kind of food that makes you slow down and just enjoy.
So what are you waiting for? Whip up a batch, pour yourself a cup of tea, and dive into the cozy goodness. If you try them, tag me—I’d love to hear how they turned out!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Keep the Flavor Coming – Try These:
Leniwe
Ingredients
For the Dumplings:
- 2 cups farmer’s cheese
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
For Serving (Savory Option):
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
For Serving (Sweet Option):
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the farmer’s cheese, flour, eggs, and salt. Mix gently with a spoon or hands until the ingredients are fully incorporated, forming a soft dough. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. If it feels too sticky, add a small amount of flour, being careful not to over-flour as it may result in denser dumplings.
Shape the Dumplings
- Lightly flour a clean work surface. Divide the dough into smaller sections and roll each into a log approximately 1 inch thick. Cut the logs into 1-inch pieces, forming small, pillow-shaped dumplings.
Cook the Dumplings
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the dumplings into the water, ensuring they do not overcrowd the pot. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Once the dumplings float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes), allow them to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the water and set aside to drain.
Prepare the Savory Version
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the breadcrumbs and toast until golden brown and fragrant, stirring frequently.
- Toss the cooked dumplings in the buttery breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
Prepare the Sweet Version
- Melt the butter and drizzle it over the warm dumplings.
- In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the dumplings for a lightly sweet finish.
Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the dumplings immediately while warm. They can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
