16+ Hungarian Christmas Bread Recipe You Must Try Them!
Published on: Apr 22, 2024
Hungarian Christmas bread, also known as "kalács" or "beigli," is a traditional holiday treat in Hungary. This sweet and rich bread is typically served during Christmas and Easter, and has been a beloved dessert for generations. The bread is made with a combination of flour, yeast, eggs, sugar, and butter, and is often filled with delicious fillings such as poppy seeds or walnuts. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history and recipe of this beloved Hungarian Christmas bread.
Main Ingredients: English Cucumber, Table Salt, Paprika, Sour Cream
First up on our list is a refreshing and tangy cucumber salad that is sure to please. Al's Famous Hungarian Cucumber Salad is a traditional side dish in Hungarian cuisine. Made with cucumbers, sour cream, dill, and a touch of garlic, this salad pairs perfectly with any beer can chicken recipe.
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Hungarian Christmas Cookies
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Butter, Rapid Rise Yeast, Sugar
Next on the list is a holiday favorite - Hungarian Christmas Cookies. These buttery and flaky cookies have a hint of cinnamon and make the perfect accompaniment to a warm cup of tea or coffee. They also make a great gift for friends and family during the holiday season.
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Apricot Kolaches – An Hungarian Christmas Cookie
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Salt, Cream Cheese, Unsalted Butter
If you're looking for a unique twist on a classic holiday cookie, look no further than Apricot Kolaches. These Hungarian Christmas cookies are filled with a sweet apricot jam and have a crumbly and buttery crust that will melt in your mouth.
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Hungarian Christmas Walnut Cookies (Hókifli)
Main Ingredients: Flour, Margarine, Lemon, Sour Cream, Salt, Ground
Another traditional holiday cookie in Hungarian cuisine is the Hókifli, or Hungarian Christmas Walnut Cookie. These nutty and sweet cookies are shaped into crescents and dusted with powdered sugar for a festive touch. They are perfect for dipping in your afternoon coffee or tea.
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Borleves | Hungarian Christmas Wine Soup
Main Ingredients: Dry White Wine, Water, Sugar, Cinnamon Stick, Cloves
Looking for a unique starter for your holiday meal? Try this Hungarian Christmas Wine Soup, also known as Borleves. Made with red wine, nutmeg, and cinnamon, this warm and comforting soup will be a hit with your guests.
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Hungarian Chocolate Torte
Main Ingredients: Walnuts, Dry Red Wine, Sugar, Bread Crumbs, Dark
No meal is complete without dessert, and this Hungarian Chocolate Torte is a must-try. This rich and decadent cake is made with dark chocolate and hazelnuts for a deliciously indulgent treat.
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Hungarian gingerbread biscuits – Mézes puszedli
Main Ingredients: Flour, Honey, Icing Sugar, Butter, Salt, Egg Yolks
For a fun twist on traditional gingerbread cookies, try these Hungarian gingerbread biscuits, also known as Mézes puszedli. These cookies are made with honey, cloves, and cinnamon, and are perfect for decorating with your favorite festive designs.
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Hungarian Mushroom Soup
Main Ingredients: Butter, Onion, Mushrooms, Flour, Paprika, Chicken
On a cold day, there's nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of soup. This Hungarian Mushroom Soup is packed with flavor from a variety of mushrooms, paprika, and sour cream. It's the perfect dish to warm you up from the inside out.
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Hungarian Goulash
Main Ingredients: Onions, Butter, Caraway Seeds, Paprika, Flour, Stewing
No list of Hungarian dishes would be complete without Goulash. This hearty stew is made with pork, potatoes, and bell peppers, and is seasoned with caraway seeds and paprika. Serve it over noodles or with a side of crusty bread for a filling and delicious meal.
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Hungarian Potato Bread
Main Ingredients: Potato, Flour, Cumin Seeds, Sugar, Salt, Rapid Rise
If you're a bread lover, you have to try this Hungarian Potato Bread. Made with mashed potatoes, this bread has a tender and fluffy texture. It's perfect for sandwiches, as a side with soup, or just on its own with a little butter.
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Authentic Hungarian Goulash
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Yellow Onion, Sweet Red Pepper, Garlic, Bay
For a more authentic version of Goulash, try this recipe that has been passed down through generations of Hungarian families. This dish is made with beef, onions, and tomatoes, and is seasoned with caraway seeds and paprika. It's a comforting and flavorful meal that will transport you to Hungary with every bite.
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Hungarian Braided Sweet Bread
Main Ingredients: Flour, Fresh Yeast, Milk, Sugar, Salt, Egg, Melted
Another delicious bread recipe in Hungarian cuisine is this Braided Sweet Bread. This bread is made with raisins and cinnamon for a touch of sweetness and is perfect for a weekend breakfast or brunch. It's also a great accompaniment to your favorite Beer Can Chicken recipe.
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Hungarian Chicken Paprikash
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast, Salt, Pepper, Sweet
Chicken Paprikash is a classic Hungarian dish that is a must-try for any chicken lover. This recipe combines chicken thighs, sweet paprika, and sour cream for a creamy and spicy sauce that pairs perfectly with egg noodles or mashed potatoes.
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Soul-Warming Hungarian Mushroom Soup
Main Ingredients: Salted Butter, Mushrooms, White Onions, Dried Thyme
Another variation on Hungarian Mushroom Soup, this recipe adds a touch of bacon for a savory and smoky flavor. This soup is perfect for a chilly day and is sure to warm you up with every spoonful.
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Kalács, the Hungarian Sweet Braided Bread
Main Ingredients: Milk, Granulated Sugar, Fresh Yeast, Butter, Wheat
For a different take on sweet bread, try this Kalács, the Hungarian Sweet Braided Bread. This bread is filled with a rich and creamy filling made with ricotta cheese and lemon zest. It's the perfect treat for a special occasion or a lazy weekend morning.
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Hungarian Red Lentil Soup
Main Ingredients: Yellow Onion, Carrots, Garlic, Red Lentils, Tomato
This hearty soup is packed with vegetables, spices, and red lentils for a nutritious and filling meal. The addition of smoked paprika and cumin add a depth of flavor that will have you going back for seconds.
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Hungarian Wienerschnitzel
Main Ingredients: Veal, Salt, Pepper, Flour, Eggs, Panko Breadcrumbs
If you're a fan of breaded and pan-fried meats, you have to try this Hungarian Wienerschnitzel. This dish is made with pork tenderloin and is seasoned with paprika and garlic powder for a flavorful and crispy coating.
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Hungarian Noodles
Main Ingredients: Chicken Bouillon Cubes, Boiling Water, Condensed Cream
Noodles are a staple in Hungarian cuisine and can be served as a side dish or incorporated into a main course. These Hungarian Noodles are tossed in a buttery and dill sauce for a simple but delicious addition to any meal.
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Pickled Hungarian Wax Peppers
Main Ingredients: Peppers, Garlic, Water, White Vinegar, Kosher Salt
If you're looking for a spicy and tangy accompaniment to your Beer Can Chicken, try these Pickled Hungarian Wax Peppers. These peppers are pickled with garlic, bay leaves, and black peppercorns for a flavorful and crunchy addition to any dish.
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Hungarian Beef Goulash
Main Ingredients: Lean Ground Beef, Onion, Red Bell Pepper, Garlic Clove
For a heartier and more meat-centric version of Goulash, try this Hungarian Beef Goulash. This dish is made with beef chuck, carrots, and potatoes, and is seasoned with smoked paprika and thyme. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream for a truly authentic experience.
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Al's Famous Hungarian Cucumber Salad
Main Ingredients: English Cucumber, Table Salt, Paprika, Sour Cream
This refreshing cucumber salad is a staple in Hungarian cuisine. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a side dish that perfectly complements any beer can chicken recipe. The combination of cool cucumbers, tangy vinegar, and fresh dill will leave your taste buds wanting more. Plus, it's a great way to incorporate some healthy vegetables into your meal.
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Hungarian Christmas Cookies
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Butter, Rapid Rise Yeast, Sugar
No holiday season in Hungary is complete without a plate of these delicious cookies. Made with a delicate dough and filled with a sweet apricot jam, these treats are a must-try for any beer can chicken lover. The hint of cinnamon and almond in each bite will transport you to a cozy Christmas market in Budapest.
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Apricot Kolaches – An Hungarian Christmas Cookie
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Salt, Cream Cheese, Unsalted Butter
Kolaches are a popular pastry in Hungary, especially during the Christmas season. These soft, buttery cookies are filled with a sweet apricot jam and topped with a dusting of powdered sugar. It's the perfect accompaniment to a warm cup of tea while enjoying your beer can chicken on a cold winter night.
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Hungarian Christmas Walnut Cookies (Hókifli)
Main Ingredients: Flour, Margarine, Lemon, Sour Cream, Salt, Ground
Another traditional Hungarian Christmas cookie, Hókifli are crescent-shaped cookies filled with a rich walnut filling. These cookies are not overly sweet, making them a great option for those who prefer a more subtle dessert. Enjoy them alongside your beer can chicken for a delightful balance of flavors.
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Borleves | Hungarian Christmas Wine Soup
Main Ingredients: Dry White Wine, Water, Sugar, Cinnamon Stick, Cloves
Borleves, or Hungarian Christmas wine soup, is a unique and delicious dish that is served during the holiday season. Made with red wine, beef broth, and spices, this soup is hearty and comforting. It's the perfect starter for a holiday meal, especially if you're planning on serving beer can chicken as the main course.
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Hungarian Chocolate Torte
Main Ingredients: Walnuts, Dry Red Wine, Sugar, Bread Crumbs, Dark
If you have a sweet tooth, you must try this decadent Hungarian chocolate torte. Made with layers of rich chocolate cake and a creamy chocolate filling, this dessert is pure indulgence. Enjoy a slice after your beer can chicken dinner for a truly satisfying end to your meal.
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Hungarian gingerbread biscuits – Mézes puszedli
Main Ingredients: Flour, Honey, Icing Sugar, Butter, Salt, Egg Yolks
Mézes puszedli, or Hungarian gingerbread biscuits, are a beloved treat in Hungary. These soft, spicy cookies are flavored with honey, cinnamon, and cloves, making them a perfect accompaniment to a beer can chicken dinner. They also make a great snack for those late-night cravings.
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Hungarian Mushroom Soup
Main Ingredients: Butter, Onion, Mushrooms, Flour, Paprika, Chicken
If you love mushrooms, you have to try this creamy Hungarian mushroom soup. Made with a variety of mushrooms, paprika, and sour cream, this soup is hearty, flavorful, and oh-so-comforting. Serve it as a starter or add some chunks of chicken to make it a meal on its own.
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Hungarian Goulash
Main Ingredients: Onions, Butter, Caraway Seeds, Paprika, Flour, Stewing
No list of Hungarian recipes would be complete without goulash. This hearty stew is made with tender chunks of beef, potatoes, and plenty of paprika. It's a classic dish that is perfect for colder months and pairs perfectly with a cold beer and some beer can chicken.
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Hungarian Potato Bread
Main Ingredients: Potato, Flour, Cumin Seeds, Sugar, Salt, Rapid Rise
This soft, fluffy bread is a staple in Hungarian cuisine. Made with mashed potatoes and a touch of caraway seeds, this bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover juices from your beer can chicken. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover mashed potatoes you may have.
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Authentic Hungarian Goulash
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Yellow Onion, Sweet Red Pepper, Garlic, Bay
If you want to try your hand at making an authentic Hungarian goulash, this recipe is a must-try. Made with beef, onions, and plenty of paprika, this dish is full of flavor and is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it alongside your beer can chicken for a hearty and satisfying meal.
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Hungarian Braided Sweet Bread
Main Ingredients: Flour, Fresh Yeast, Milk, Sugar, Salt, Egg, Melted
This braided sweet bread is a must-try for any bread lover. Made with a sweet dough and filled with raisins and walnuts, this bread is perfect for breakfast or as a dessert. It also pairs well with a savory dish like beer can chicken, providing a nice contrast of flavors.
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Hungarian Chicken Paprikash
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast, Salt, Pepper, Sweet
Chicken paprikash is a classic Hungarian dish that is simple yet full of flavor. Made with chicken, onions, and of course, paprika, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. Serve it with a side of beer can chicken for a delicious and satisfying meal.
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Soul-Warming Hungarian Mushroom Soup
Main Ingredients: Salted Butter, Mushrooms, White Onions, Dried Thyme
This creamy mushroom soup is the ultimate comfort food. Made with a variety of mushrooms, potatoes, and sour cream, this soup is rich, flavorful, and perfect for a cold winter night. It pairs perfectly with a cold beer and some beer can chicken for a cozy and satisfying meal.
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Kalács, the Hungarian Sweet Braided Bread
Main Ingredients: Milk, Granulated Sugar, Fresh Yeast, Butter, Wheat
Kalács, also known as Hungarian sweet braided bread, is a staple in Hungarian cuisine. This soft, fluffy bread is perfect for any occasion, whether it's breakfast, a snack, or a side dish to your beer can chicken. It's also a great option for those who have a sweet tooth.
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Hungarian Red Lentil Soup
Main Ingredients: Yellow Onion, Carrots, Garlic, Red Lentils, Tomato
This hearty and nutritious soup is a great option for those looking for a meatless meal. Made with red lentils, vegetables, and spices, this soup is packed with flavor and will keep you full and satisfied. Serve it as a starter or as a main dish alongside your beer can chicken.
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Hungarian Wienerschnitzel
Main Ingredients: Veal, Salt, Pepper, Flour, Eggs, Panko Breadcrumbs
Wienerschnitzel is a popular dish in many European countries, including Hungary. This breaded and fried cutlet of veal or pork is a favorite among meat lovers and pairs perfectly with a cold beer. Serve it as a main dish, or cut it up and use it as a topping for your beer can chicken salad.
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Hungarian Noodles
Main Ingredients: Chicken Bouillon Cubes, Boiling Water, Condensed Cream
No Hungarian meal is complete without a side of noodles. These egg noodles are a staple in Hungarian cuisine and pair perfectly with a variety of dishes, including beer can chicken. Serve them on the side or mix them in with your chicken for a delicious and filling meal.
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Pickled Hungarian Wax Peppers
Main Ingredients: Peppers, Garlic, Water, White Vinegar, Kosher Salt
If you like a bit of heat in your food, you have to try these pickled Hungarian wax peppers. These tangy and spicy peppers are a popular condiment in Hungary and are a great addition to any dish. Add them to your beer can chicken for an extra kick of flavor.
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Hungarian Beef Goulash
Main Ingredients: Lean Ground Beef, Onion, Red Bell Pepper, Garlic Clove
This hearty and flavorful goulash is made with tender chunks of beef, potatoes, and plenty of paprika. It's a classic dish that is perfect for colder months and pairs perfectly with a cold beer and some beer can chicken. Plus, it's a great option for meal prepping as it reheats well for leftovers.
The History of Hungarian Christmas Bread
Origins
The origins of Hungarian Christmas bread can be traced back to the 15th century, when it was first mentioned in a Hungarian cookbook. It was traditionally made as a sweet bread to celebrate special occasions such as weddings and holidays. Over time, it became a staple dessert during Christmas and Easter, and was often gifted to loved ones as a symbol of love and good luck.
Symbolism
In Hungarian culture, the Christmas bread holds significant symbolism. The round shape of the bread represents the circle of life and the coming of a new year. The filling, whether it be poppy seeds or walnuts, symbolizes prosperity and abundance. The act of sharing the bread with loved ones also represents unity and togetherness during the holiday season.
The Recipe for Hungarian Christmas Bread
Ingredients
To make this delicious bread, you will need flour, yeast, eggs, sugar, butter, milk, and your choice of filling. Traditional fillings include poppy seeds or walnuts, but you can also get creative and use other fillings such as apricot jam or chocolate.
Instructions
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and slowly add in the milk and melted butter.
3. Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry mixture and knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Cover the dough and let it rise for about an hour.
5. Roll out the dough into a rectangular shape and spread the filling of your choice evenly on top.
6. Roll up the dough and place it on a baking sheet.
7. Bake in the oven at 375°F for about 30 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Let the bread cool before slicing and serving.
Enjoying Hungarian Christmas Bread
Hungarian Christmas bread can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. It is often served as a dessert after the main holiday meal, and pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee. Some also like to serve the bread with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top.
In Conclusion
Hungarian Christmas bread is not only a delicious holiday treat, but also holds significant cultural and symbolic value in Hungarian culture. Whether you're making it for your own family or gifting it to loved ones, this sweet and rich bread is sure to be a hit during the holiday season. So why not try making your own Hungarian Christmas bread this year and continue the tradition for generations to come?
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