Fánk are traditional Hungarian doughnuts made from a soft, lightly sweet yeast dough. They are fried until golden and are traditionally served with powdered sugar, apricot jam, or other favorite toppings.
They are especially popular during celebrations and family gatherings, but they also make a delicious homemade afternoon treat.
Ingredients
500 g all-purpose flour
25 g fresh yeast or 7 g dry yeast
250 ml lukewarm milk
50 g granulated sugar
3 egg yolks
50 g unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
Vegetable oil, for frying
Powdered sugar, for serving
Apricot jam, for serving
How to Make Hungarian Fánk
1. Prepare the Yeast
Combine the lukewarm milk, yeast, and a teaspoon of the sugar.
Let it stand for about 5–10 minutes, until the mixture becomes slightly foamy.
2. Make the Dough
Place the flour, remaining sugar, and salt in a large bowl.
Add the egg yolks, vanilla, melted butter, and yeast mixture.
Mix and knead until a soft, smooth dough forms.
Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has roughly doubled in size.
3. Shape the Doughnuts
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.
Roll it out to about 1.5–2 cm thick.
Cut out rounds using a cookie cutter or glass.
Place the dough rounds on a lightly floured tray, cover, and let them rest for another 15–20 minutes.
4. Fry
Heat vegetable oil in a deep, heavy pot over medium heat.
Carefully place the doughnuts into the hot oil in small batches.
Fry until golden brown on one side, then turn and cook the other side.
Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Serve
Dust the warm Fánk with powdered sugar.
Serve with apricot jam or your favorite fruit preserve.
Helpful Tips
Make sure the milk is warm rather than hot when activating the yeast.
Don’t add too much extra flour, as a softer dough produces tender doughnuts.
Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying.
Keep the oil at a steady medium temperature so the doughnuts cook evenly.
Serve them fresh for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
Hungarian Fánk are traditionally served with apricot jam and powdered sugar. They also taste delicious with raspberry jam, chocolate sauce, or simply dusted with sugar.
Fánk are a beloved Hungarian sweet pastry with a soft, airy center and golden exterior. Served with fruity jam and powdered sugar, they make a simple and comforting homemade treat.
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