Combine the lukewarm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of the sugar. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes, until foamy.
2. Make the Dough
Place the flour, remaining sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
Add the egg yolks, melted butter, vanilla, and yeast mixture. Knead until the dough becomes smooth, soft, and elastic.
Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
3. Shape the Doughnuts
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and roll it out to approximately ½ inch thick.
Cut out rounds using a doughnut or biscuit cutter. If desired, make a small indentation in the center rather than cutting a full hole.
Place the doughnuts on a lightly floured surface, cover, and let them rest for another 15–20 minutes.
4. Prepare the Chocolate Cream
Heat the heavy cream until hot but not boiling.
Pour it over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for 1–2 minutes. Stir until smooth, then mix in the butter and vanilla.
Allow the chocolate cream to cool until thick enough to spread or pipe.
5. Fry the Doughnuts
Heat vegetable oil to approximately 350°F (175°C).
Carefully place the doughnuts into the oil, working in small batches. Fry until golden brown, turning them gently so both sides cook evenly.
Drain on paper towels.
For the classic Hungarian appearance, avoid pressing the doughnuts down while frying. A pale band around the middle is a characteristic feature of properly fried Szalagos Fánk.
6. Fill and Serve
Once the doughnuts have cooled slightly, pipe chocolate cream into the center or serve it alongside.
Dust generously with powdered sugar.
Helpful Tips
Don’t add too much flour—the dough should remain soft.
Let the dough rise fully for light, airy doughnuts.
Keep the oil temperature steady.
Fry only a few doughnuts at a time to prevent the oil temperature from dropping.
Chocolate cream can be replaced with traditional apricot jam for a more classic Hungarian version.
A Taste of Hungarian Tradition 🇭🇺
Szalagos Fánk is especially popular during Hungarian carnival season, but these delicate doughnuts are delicious any time of year. Their airy texture and golden exterior make them perfect with coffee, tea, or a glass of warm milk.
The combination of a freshly fried Hungarian doughnut and silky chocolate cream is particularly indulgent.
Soft, golden, chocolate-filled, and impossible to eat just one! 🍩🍫🇭🇺
