Budapest’s Chimney Cake: The Greatest Hit of Summer 2025
When it comes to iconic Hungarian delicacies, chimney cake, or kürtőskalács, reigns supreme. This spiral-shaped pastry has captivated the taste buds of locals and visitors alike for generations. Now, it’s experiencing a renaissance among tourists, with many foreign travelers arriving in Budapest with one mission in mind: to savor this legendary sweet treat. And this Easter Sunday, April 20, chimney cake is set to make its grand debut in a new form at St. Stephen’s Basilica, promising an unforgettable culinary experience.
A Tradition Reimagined
Chimney cake has always held a special place in Hungarian culture. Traditionally made from simple leavened dough and baked over open coals, it was a treat that grandmothers lovingly prepared by hand. Norbert Korolovszki, founder of Kürtős Legenda and one of the leading figures behind Budapest’s chimney cake revival, is determined to preserve this heritage while elevating the dessert to new heights. “We still make it by hand today and bake it over open coals, just like back in the day,” Korolovszki explains. His commitment to tradition is unwavering, with the dough resting for at least six hours before baking—a step that ensures its signature lightness and flavor.
But tradition doesn’t mean stagnation. The team at Kürtős Legenda has reimagined chimney cake as a vibrant reflection of Budapest itself: colorful, cosmopolitan, and full of life. Their latest creation incorporates Hungary’s national colors and features some surprising ingredients that are sure to delight even the most adventurous foodies.
Budapest’s Chimney Cake: A Symphony of Flavors
What makes Budapest’s chimney cake so special? For starters, it’s infused with Unicum, Hungary’s most famous herbal liqueur—a bold move that ties the dessert to one of the country’s most recognizable symbols. Adding to its uniqueness are refreshing summer flavors like passion fruit ice cream and blueberries, which lend a fruity twist to the traditional recipe. These unexpected combinations create a dessert that is both indulgent and refreshing, perfect for warm summer days.
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Korolovszki’s inspiration for these ingredients stems from his travels in Transylvania, where local blueberries are a cherished part of the culinary landscape. “When we visit Transylvania, we never skip tasting some local blueberries,” he says. This connection to tradition and nature is woven into every bite of Budapest’s chimney cake.
A Culinary Experience Worth Traveling For
For tourists planning their trip to Hungary, chimney cake often tops the list of must-try foods—and for good reason. However, Korolovszki warns that not all chimney cakes are created equal. Many vendors offer overly sweet or dense versions baked in electric ovens, far removed from the authentic experience. Kürtős Legenda aims to bridge this gap by offering a product that lives up to Budapest’s reputation as a world-class culinary destination.
Their commitment goes beyond taste; it’s about restoring dignity to this beloved treat. By choosing St. Stephen’s Basilica as their debut location—a site steeped in history and grandeur—they hope to elevate chimney cake back to its status as a festive delicacy.
A Limited-Time Summer Delight
If you’re visiting Budapest this summer, don’t miss your chance to try this new take on chimney cake. Available until the end of September near St. Stephen’s Basilica, it promises to be one of the highlights of your trip—not just a dessert but an experience that connects you to Hungary’s rich traditions and vibrant culture.
Budapest’s chimney cake is more than just food; it’s a story of heritage meeting innovation, a celebration of flavors both old and new. Whether you’re strolling through the city or soaking in its lively atmosphere at one of its iconic landmarks, this sweet treat is your ticket to savoring Budapest in all its glory.
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