Kürtöskalács is a traditional Romanian-Hungarian cake originating from Transylvania, which has been considered the national sweet specialty of the Sziklés for centuries. It is still prepared on special occasions - at weddings, church holidays, baptisms or when welcoming guests. It is not just a dessert, but a symbol of hospitality, tradition and family values.

Origin of the name Kürtöskalács

There is still debate not only about the origin of the cake itself, but also about its name – whether the correct name is kürtös kalács or kürtőskalács. Both variants have historical foundations and refer to the traditional method of preparation.

One theory claims that the history of Kürtöskalács dates back to the arrival of the Hungarians in the Carpathian Basin. According to this version, the Hungarians made a dough from captured flour and eggs, rolled it around their horns (kürt means horn in Hungarian) and baked it over an open fire.

Other historians are inclined to believe that Kürtöskalács only emerged later, when Hungarians settled down, had stable households, and were able to develop traditional cuisine.

Cooking on fire and connection to the stove

Another theory links the name of the cake to the stovetop oven, which in Transylvania is called a kürtőcső. The shape and diameter of the wooden cylinder on which Kürtöskalács is baked strongly fits this theory.

The inventive Szikül people baked Kürtöskalács on hot hardwood coals left over from cooking or heating. They rolled the dough onto a cylindrical tool and slowly turned it over a fire, creating a unique treat with a crispy caramelized crust and a fluffy interior in this traditional way.

Legends about the creation of Kürtöskalács

There are several legends circulating around the world about the origin of Kürtöskalács. One of the best known and closest to our tradition is related to the Tatar invasion of Transylvania.

According to legend, the locals hid from the Tatars in the mountains and caves. When the enemies could not force Sikula to fight, they decided to starve them. However, after a long time, both sides ran out of food. Then one wise woman gathered the leftover flour, mixed it with ashes and baked a huge cake, which they strung on high poles and showed to the Tatars with the words:

„Look how we live here while you starve.“

The Tatars were defeated by this ruse and pulled away. Whether the legend is true or not, it beautifully captures the strength of tradition, cleverness and cohesion that are inherently linked to Kürtöskalács.

A tradition that has endured for centuries

Deciding which theory is true is not easy. And perhaps it is not even necessary. Kürtöskalács has survived the centuries precisely because of its uniqueness, simplicity and honesty.

For us, it represents an original Hungarian product, made in the traditional way, from quality ingredients, without artificial flavorings and without compromise. Exactly the way it was baked in the past – with respect for history and joy for today's world.