Kalacs

Kalacs Recipe: Authentic Hungarian Sweet Bread with Golden Raisins

Region / culture: Hungary | Preparation time: 3 hours | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 12

Introduction

Kalacs, also known as Hungarian sweet bread, is a traditional Eastern European pastry that is loved for its soft and sweet flavor. This recipe has been passed down through generations and is a staple in many households during holidays and special occasions.

History

The origins of Kalacs can be traced back to Hungary, where it is a popular treat enjoyed by many. The recipe has been adapted and modified over the years, but the basic concept of a sweet bread filled with raisins remains the same.

Ingredients

1 cake of yeast
warm water for dilution
pinch of sugar
approximately 1 tbsp of flour
2 whole eggs
2 egg yolks
0.5 cup of sugar
1 cup of cold half and half
1 tsp of salt
1 cup of warm milk
3 oz (85 g) of butter
1 tbsp of lard
7 cups of flour
golden raisins to taste

How to prepare

In a bowl, mix the yeast cake diluted in warm water, sugar, and flour. In a separate bowl, beat together the whole eggs, egg yolks, sugar, half and half, and salt.
Set aside.
In a separate bowl, mix milk, butter, and lard.
Add 7 cups of flour.
Then add the yeast mixture and the egg and milk mixture.
Knead well for about 10 minutes and let it rise until doubled, which takes about 2 hours.
Divide the dough into 6 equal parts, each weighing approximately 1 lb (454 g).
Roll out the dough and dot it with white raisins that have been soaked in water and drained. Start with 0.75 cup of white raisins.
Roll up the dough and braid three strands together. Place the braided dough in a greased loaf pan.
Repeat the rolling up and braiding process with the other three strands and place them in a separate greased loaf pan.
Let the dough rise again for approximately one hour to an hour and a half.
Brush the dough with beaten egg and sugar before baking at 350°F (177°C) for about one hour.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or dried fruits to the dough for added texture and flavor.
Substitute the raisins with chocolate chips for a decadent twist on this classic recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to let the dough rise properly to ensure a light and fluffy texture.

- Soaking the raisins in water before adding them to the dough will prevent them from drying out during baking.

- Brushing the dough with beaten egg and sugar before baking will give it a shiny and golden crust.

Serving Suggestions

Kalacs is best enjoyed warm with a cup of coffee or tea. It can also be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey.

Cooking Techniques

Kneading the dough well is key to achieving a light and fluffy texture.

- Braiding the dough adds a decorative touch to the final product.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use active dry yeast instead of cake yeast.

- Margarine can be used instead of butter.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Kalacs on a decorative platter with a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Kalacs pairs well with a glass of sweet dessert wine or a hot cup of mulled cider.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Kalacs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Kalacs contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Kalacs contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Kalacs contains approximately 8 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Kalacs contains approximately 6 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Kalacs is a good source of iron, calcium, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat, eggs, and dairy.

Summary

Kalacs is a delicious sweet bread that is rich in carbohydrates and fats, making it a satisfying treat for any occasion.

Summary

Kalacs is a delightful sweet bread that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. With its soft and fluffy texture and sweet raisin filling, it is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this traditional Eastern European treat with family and friends for a special touch to any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a cold winter day and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the air as she pulled out a golden-brown loaf from the oven. "This is my family's recipe for Kalacs," she said proudly, slicing a warm piece for me to taste.

As I took my first bite, I was transported back to my childhood in Hungary. The sweet, buttery flavor of the bread brought back memories of my own grandmother's kitchen, where she would bake Kalacs for special occasions and family gatherings. I knew that I had to learn how to make this recipe myself.

Maria graciously shared her family's recipe with me, explaining each step in detail. The dough was made with flour, sugar, yeast, butter, and milk, and was left to rise until it doubled in size. Then, it was rolled out into a rectangular shape and spread with a mixture of sugar, cinnamon, and chopped walnuts.

I carefully rolled up the dough, forming it into a spiral shape, and placed it in a greased pan to bake. As it baked in the oven, the kitchen filled with the irresistible smell of sweet bread and cinnamon.

When the Kalacs was finally done, I couldn't wait to taste it. The bread was soft and fluffy, with a rich, buttery flavor and a hint of sweetness from the sugar and cinnamon. It was a taste of home, a taste of tradition that I knew I would cherish forever.

Over the years, I have continued to perfect my Kalacs recipe, adding my own special touches and variations. I have shared it with friends and family, passing down the tradition from generation to generation.

Each time I bake Kalacs, I am reminded of the love and warmth that fills my kitchen, just like it did in my grandmother's kitchen so many years ago. And as I take a bite of the sweet, buttery bread, I am grateful for the memories and traditions that have shaped me into the cook and baker that I am today.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a comforting and delicious treat, give my Kalacs recipe a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. Just be prepared for the warm and fuzzy feeling that comes with each bite, as you are transported back to a time and place where food was made with love and shared with those you hold dear.