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Kürtőskalács – the traditional Hungarian chimney cake
When it comes to iconic Hungarian desserts, few are as beloved or as recognizable as Kürtőskalács, also known as the Chimney Cake. This delicious, spiral-shaped pastry is famous for its crispy, caramelized exterior and soft, airy interior. Often spotted at street markets, festivals, and food trucks in Hungary, Kürtőskalács is a must-try treat that captures the essence of the country’s rich culinary tradition.
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 500 g of all-purpose flour
- 1 packet of active dry yeast
- 200 ml of lukewarm milk
- 100 g of sugar
- 100 g of unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tsp of vanilla extract
- Zest of one lemon optional
For the topping:
- 200 g of granulated sugar
- 1 tsp of ground cinnamon
- 50 g of melted butter for brushing
- shredded coconut, cocoa powder, crushed walnuts, or chocolate drizzle for extra flavor optional
Instructions
Prepare the dough:
- In a small bowl, mix the lukewarm milk with a pinch of sugar and the yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and lemon zest. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Knead the dough until smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much.
- Cover the dough with a towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size.
Shape the cake:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) or prepare your grill or open flame for traditional cooking.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and divide it into 4 equal portions.
- Roll each portion into a long strip, about 1 inch wide.
- Carefully wrap each strip around a wooden dowel or metal cylinder, making sure the dough is tightly but evenly wrapped.
Brush and coat:
- Brush the dough with melted butter, then roll it in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon. You can add shredded coconut, cocoa powder, or crushed nuts to the topping for extra flavor.
- For traditional open flame cooking, rotate the cylinders slowly over the fire. If using the oven, place the cylinders on a baking tray and bake for 20-30 minutes, until golden brown.
Finishing touches:
- Once golden and crispy, remove the chimney cakes from the heat. Brush them with more melted butter and roll them in additional sugar if desired.
- Let the cakes cool for a few minutes before serving.
Optional toppings and variations:
- Classic cinnamon sugar: A timeless choice for those who love simplicity.
- Chocolate lovers’ delight: Drizzle with melted chocolate or dust with cocoa powder for a richer treat.
- Coconut twist: Sprinkle shredded coconut on top for a tropical flavor.
- Nutty crunch: Add crushed walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts for a satisfying texture.
- Ice cream-filled Kürtőskalács: For a modern version, fill the hollow center with soft-serve ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Notes
A journey through history: from Transylvania to Hungarian streets
Though today it is closely associated with Hungary, the origins of Kürtőskalács can be traced back to the region of Transylvania, now part of Romania. This pastry was first crafted by Hungarian-speaking communities known as the Székelys, who are native to the region. The name "Kürtőskalács" itself is a nod to the dessert’s chimney-like appearance, as the dough is rolled into a spiral around a cylinder and baked over an open flame, resulting in a hollow, tube-like shape. Originally a treat prepared for special occasions, it was made with care by local bakers using simple ingredients like flour, yeast, and sugar. As the recipe spread throughout the region, Kürtőskalács found its way to Hungary, Romania, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic, where variations of the dessert, such as Trdelník, emerged.
Today, the humble chimney cake is a ubiquitous street food that can be found throughout Hungary, especially in bustling cities like Budapest. Its popularity has also spread beyond Central Europe, delighting people around the world who are lucky enough to taste it.
What makes Kürtőskalács so special?
Kürtőskalács stands out for its unique texture and irresistible flavor. The contrast between the golden, crispy caramelized crust and the soft, fluffy interior is nothing short of magical. The dough itself is light and slightly sweet, with hints of yeast and butter, while the coating of sugar and other toppings enhances the sweetness and adds layers of flavor. What truly sets it apart from other pastries, however, is its method of preparation. Unlike most baked goods, Kürtőskalács is cooked over an open flame, giving it that signature smoky and slightly charred flavor that pairs perfectly with its sweetness. In Hungary, Kürtőskalács is more than just a treat; it’s a cultural experience. Whether you’re watching it being made at a bustling market stall or savoring it while strolling through a Christmas market, it’s a pastry that truly brings people together. It’s not just about the taste, but the experience of enjoying something freshly made and full of history.Where and when to enjoy Kürtőskalács
Kürtőskalács is most often enjoyed as a street food snack. You’ll find it at markets, fairs, and festivals across Hungary, particularly during the winter months when it’s sold at Christmas markets. It’s an excellent treat to have with a hot drink, such as a steaming cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or mulled wine, making it perfect for colder weather. In recent years, some cafes have even begun to serve Kürtőskalács as a dessert with ice cream inside, adding a new and modern twist to this traditional Hungarian treat. This variation has become particularly popular with younger crowds, offering a fun and indulgent way to experience the pastry.Why you should try Kürtőskalács
- Cultural experience: Kürtőskalács isn’t just a dessert – it’s a piece of Hungarian history. Watching it being made and tasting it fresh from the grill is an experience in itself.
- Unique texture: The contrast between the crisp, caramelized outside and the soft, pillowy inside creates a perfect bite.
- Versatile flavor: With endless topping options, Kürtőskalács can be tailored to anyone’s taste, from those who love simple cinnamon sugar to those who prefer decadent chocolate or nutty varieties.
- Perfect for any occasion: Whether you’re enjoying it at a festive market, pairing it with coffee on a chilly afternoon, or treating yourself to ice cream-filled Kürtőskalács, it’s a dessert that’s sure to please.
