Traditional Hungarian Chimney Cake (Kürtőskalács)

Hungarian Chimney Cake, known as Kürtőskalács, is one of Hungary’s most iconic pastries. Made from sweet yeast dough wrapped around a wooden spit, baked until golden, then coated in sugar that caramelizes into a crisp crust, it’s soft and fluffy inside with an irresistible crunchy exterior. Popular toppings include cinnamon sugar, chopped walnuts, cocoa, coconut, and colorful sprinkles.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Bake Time: 18–22 minutes
Total Time: About 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 chimney cakes
Cuisine: Hungarian
Difficulty: Intermediate


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Authentic Hungarian street food
  • Crispy caramelized exterior
  • Soft, fluffy interior
  • Customizable with your favorite toppings
  • Perfect for holidays, fairs, and family gatherings

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 500 g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
  • 7 g (2¼ teaspoons) instant yeast
  • 250 ml (1 cup) warm milk
  • 75 g (⅓ cup) granulated sugar
  • 2 egg yolks
  • 60 g (¼ cup) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon salt

For Brushing

  • 60 g (¼ cup) melted butter

For the Coating

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

Choose one or more toppings:

  • Ground cinnamon
  • Cocoa powder
  • Chopped walnuts
  • Shredded coconut
  • Chocolate sprinkles
  • Rainbow sprinkles

Kitchen Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Stand mixer (optional)
  • Rolling pin
  • Chimney cake molds or heatproof metal cylinders
  • Baking tray
  • Pastry brush

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