Over time, it has also become very popular in Romania, especially in the Transylvania region, where it is commonly found at fairs, festivals, and traditional events.
In Romania, it is also known as kürtőș or Székely chimney cake.
The name comes from the Hungarian language: “kürtő” means chimney, and “kalács” means cake or sweet bread.
The dessert is made from sweet yeast dough, rolled around a special cylinder and traditionally baked over hot embers. During baking, the sugar caramelizes and forms a crispy, flavorful crust.
Today, Kürtőskalács is considered one of the most popular street desserts both in Hungary and Romania.
Dough Ingredients
- 500 g flour
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 250 ml warm milk
- 80 g sugar
- 2 eggs
- 60 g melted butter
- a pinch of salt
- grated lemon zest
- vanilla sugar
For Topping
- sugar for caramelizing
- cinnamon
- ground walnuts
- coconut flakes or cocoa powder
- melted butter
Preparation Method
The yeast is mixed with warm milk and a little sugar. After it activates, it is combined with the flour, eggs, butter, and flavorings. Knead the mixture until a smooth and elastic dough forms, then leave it to rise for about one hour.
The dough is rolled out and cut into long strips, which are wrapped around special butter-greased cylinders.
The dough is brushed with butter, coated with sugar, and baked while continuously rotating until the surface becomes golden brown and caramelized.
After baking, the dessert can be coated with cinnamon, ground walnuts, coconut flakes, or cocoa powder.
Kürtőskalács is served warm, with a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. It is one of the most popular desserts found at traditional fairs in Romania and Hungary.
International editions: