Kürtskalács

Kürtőskalács, also known as chimney cake, is a traditional Hungarian pastry baked on a spit. The name derives from kürtő meaning chimney and skalács meaning spit or cylinder. It is closely linked to Hungarian culinary tradition and to regions in Transylvania and the broader Central European market culture.

The dough is usually a sweet, enriched yeast dough made from flour, eggs, milk, sugar, and butter, sometimes with vanilla or zest. The dough is rolled into a long rope and wound in a spiral around a hollow cylindrical spit. The prepared dough is brushed with melted butter and rolled in granulated sugar, often with cinnamon or ground nuts added. The cake is then roasted over an open flame or hot coals, turning slowly until the exterior caramelizes to a crisp crust while the interior stays soft and steamy.

After baking, the cake is slid off the spit and commonly served warm. It is frequently dusted with sugar and sometimes cinnamon, or coated with chopped nuts. Variants include fillings such as chocolate, cream, or fruit, although many enjoy it plain.

Kürtőskalács is a staple at fairs, markets, and festivals in Hungary and neighboring regions. A closely related preparation known as trdelník is common in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, featuring a similar method and dough but with regional adaptations. The pastry’s exact origins are debated, but it remains a recognizable symbol of Central European confectionery.