Hungarian Spice Cakes. Recipe

Hungarian Spice Cakes, also known as "Pogácsa," are traditional Hungarian pastries that have been enjoyed for centuries. These delicious cakes have a rich history and are an integral part of Hungarian cuisine.

The recipe for Hungarian Spice Cakes has been passed down through generations and has become a beloved treat in Hungarian households. The cakes are known for their flavorful spices and moist texture, making them a perfect accompaniment to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.

Now, let's dive into the recipe and learn how to make these delicious Hungarian Spice Cakes step by step:

Ingredients:
- 2 cupfuls of crumbled stale bread
- 1 quart of milk
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 cup of powdered sugar
- 1 small cup of raisins
- Grated peel of a lemon
- Pinch of salt
- Sugar
- Lemon juice
- Butter

Instructions:

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). While the oven is heating, soak the crumbled stale bread in a quart of milk for about 10 minutes until it softens.

2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks with one cup of powdered sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.

3. Add the soaked bread, small cup of raisins, and grated peel of a lemon to the egg yolks and sugar mixture. Mix all the ingredients well to ensure they are evenly distributed.

4. Once the mixture is well combined, transfer it to a well-buttered pudding-dish. Smooth the top with a spatula or the backside of a spoon.

5. Place the pudding-dish in the preheated oven and bake until the top turns a beautiful golden brown color. This process will take approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on your oven.

6. While the cake is baking, prepare the topping. In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they start forming soft peaks. Gradually add sugar and a little lemon juice, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.

7. Remove the cake from the oven and spread the beaten egg whites over the top of the cake carefully. Be sure to cover the surface evenly.

8. Place the cake back in the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until the egg whites become light brown and appear slightly toasted.

9. Once the Hungarian Spice Cake is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.

10. Serve the cake warm or at room temperature with a delicious wine sauce. The wine sauce complements the cake's flavors perfectly and adds an extra layer of sweetness.

History and Fun Facts:

- Hungarian Spice Cakes, or Pogácsa, have been a staple in Hungarian cuisine for centuries. They are typically made with various types of spices, herbs, and occasionally cheese or pork fat.

- Pogácsa originated as a savory snack enjoyed by Hungarian shepherds. Over time, the recipe evolved, and variations with sweet flavors, such as raisins and powdered sugar, became popular.

- These cakes are commonly prepared for special occasions, celebrations, or as a delicious treat for guests. They are sometimes served with a glass of Hungarian pálinka, a traditional fruit brandy.

Similar Recipe Dishes:

Hungarian cuisine offers a wide range of delicious pastries and desserts that are worth exploring. Some similar recipe dishes you might enjoy include:

1. Hungarian Dobos Torte: This layered cake consists of thin sponge cake layers filled with rich chocolate buttercream and topped with a caramel glaze. It is a classic Hungarian dessert and a true delight for chocolate lovers.

2. Hungarian Strudel: Similar to the famous Austrian strudel, Hungarian strudel is filled with a variety of ingredients such as apples, cherries, apricots, or even cabbage and meat. The flaky pastry is rolled to perfection, creating a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors.

3. Hungarian Somlói Galuska: This dessert is made with three different types of cake crumbs, soaked in rum and topped with a thick layer of chocolate sauce and whipped cream. It is a decadent and indulgent treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Whether you choose to enjoy Hungarian Spice Cakes or explore other traditional Hungarian desserts, you are in for a delightful culinary experience. These time-honored recipes are an excellent representation of Hungarian culture and culinary traditions.

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