Hungarian Chimney Cake (Kürtőskalács)

Hungarian Chimney Cake, known as Kürtőskalács, is one of Hungary’s most iconic sweet treats. It is made from a soft, yeast-raised dough that’s wrapped around a cylindrical mold, brushed with butter, coated in sugar, and baked until golden and caramelized.

As it cooks, the sugar forms a beautifully crisp, glossy crust while the inside stays soft, fluffy, and fragrant. Traditionally served warm, Kürtőskalács is a favorite at Hungarian Christmas markets, festivals, fairs, and street-food stalls.

🇭🇺 What Is Kürtőskalács?

The name Kürtőskalács roughly translates to “chimney cake,” referring to its hollow, cylindrical shape.

The dough is traditionally wrapped around a wooden spit or specialized baking cylinder. As it rotates over heat, the sugar caramelizes, creating the signature crunchy exterior.

Once baked, it is often coated with:

• Ground cinnamon
• Chopped walnuts
• Ground almonds
• Coconut
• Cocoa
• Vanilla sugar

The result is crispy, caramelized, aromatic, and irresistibly soft inside.

🥣 Ingredients

For the Dough

• 4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (7 g) active dry yeast
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240 ml) warm milk
• 2 large egg yolks
• ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

For Coating

• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Optional Toppings

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup finely chopped walnuts
• ½ cup shredded coconut
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• Ground almonds
• Vanilla sugar