Kurtoskalacs

Kürtőskalács is a traditional Hungarian pastry also known as chimney cake. The name translates to "stove pipe cake", due to its cylindrical shape and hollow center. It is a sweet, yeast-based dough that is rolled in granulated sugar, then cooked on a spit over an open fire. The sugar caramelizes on the surface, creating a crispy, sweet exterior, while the inside remains soft and fluffy.

History[edit | edit source]

The origins of Kürtőskalács can be traced back to medieval times in the Transylvania region, which was part of Hungary at the time and is now located in modern-day Romania. It was traditionally made for special occasions like weddings or festivals. Today, it is a popular street food in Hungary and other countries in Central and Eastern Europe.

Preparation[edit | edit source]

The dough for Kürtőskalács is made from flour, sugar, yeast, and eggs. After the dough has risen, it is divided into strips and wrapped around a wooden or metal spit. The spit is then rolled in sugar and placed over an open fire. As the cake cooks, the sugar caramelizes and forms a shiny, crispy crust. The cake is often topped with additional flavors such as ground walnut, cinnamon, or cocoa powder.

Variations[edit | edit source]

There are several variations of Kürtőskalács throughout Central and Eastern Europe. In the Czech Republic, it is known as Trdelník and is often filled with ice cream or whipped cream. In Slovakia, it is called Skalický trdelník and has a protected geographical status.