🍰 Hungarian Golden Coffee Cake 🇭🇺

---

👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Activate Yeast:

• In a bowl, combine warm milk, a pinch of sugar, and yeast. Let it foam for 5–10 minutes.

2. Prepare Dough:

• In a large bowl, mix flour, remaining sugar, salt, lemon zest (if using), eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and yeast mixture.
• Knead until smooth and elastic (about 8–10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes with a mixer).
• Cover and let rise in a warm spot until doubled (1 to 1.5 hours).

3. Shape and Fill (Optional):

• Roll dough into a rectangle if adding filling. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar or nuts, then roll and place in a greased loaf or cake pan.
• Alternatively, simply spread into a greased pan for a simple version and top with streusel or nuts.

4. Final Rise:

• Let it rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffy.

5. Bake:

• Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown and a skewer comes out clean.

6. Cool and Serve:

• Let it cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze (optional).

---

☕ Perfect Pairing:

Serve warm with strong coffee or tea. This cake is often made ahead and tastes even better the next day!

Would you like a version with a fruit swirl or a Nutella-hazelnut twist?