By Lori Walker, MS, RD | Published on February 25, 2023 | Last Updated on November 13, 2023
Palacsinta Hungarian pancakes are traditional Hungarian pancakes made from a thin, crepe-like batter and filled with sweet or savory fillings. They can be enjoyed for breakfast or as a dessert.
The pancake batter is usually made with all-purpose flour, whole milk, sparkling water, sugar, and salt to give it a light and fluffy texture.
In this article, we’ll share with you Palacsinta Hungarian pancakes recipe and tips to make the perfect Palacsinta. So, keep reading!
What are palacsinta Hungarian pancakes?
Palacsinta Hungarian pancakes (or palatschinken in German) are thin pancakes prepared with a batter made of all-purpose flour, whole milk, sparkling water, and sugar. They are typically filled with sweet or savory fillings, including cottage cheese, jam, or fruit compote.
The origin of the palacsinta is a mystery, although it is believed that the dish could have been brought over from Austria sometime during the 19th century.
What does it taste like?
Palacsinta Hungarian pancakes are light and fluffy with a delicate flavor. The sweetness of the pancake batter is balanced out by savory fillings such as cottage cheese or ricotta. The apricot jam or fruit compote provides a sweet and tangy contrast to the pancakes. Once you try them, you’ll be hooked for sure!
How did I first get introduced to the palacsinta Hungarian pancakes?
I have first introduced to the Palacsinta Hungarian pancakes while traveling in Hungary. It was love at first sight! I enjoyed watching the chefs prepare these delicate pancakes in the kitchen and was fascinated by their unique flavors.
From then on, I often made palacsinta Hungarian pancakes for special occasions or just when I wanted to treat myself.
How to make palacsinta Hungarian pancakes?
The most popular filling for palacsinta Hungarian pancakes is creamy cottage cheese, egg yolk, lemon zest, and vanilla extract mixture. Still, you can fill them with any sweet or savory ingredients you like. They are usually served with powdered sugar and apricot jam. Making these delicious pancakes at home is very easy with the following steps.
Ingredients
For the pancake batter
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2/3 cup sparkling water
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 1/4 cups whole milk
- 2 whole egg
- Oil for frying
For the cottage cheese filling
- 2/3 cup dry cottage cheese or ricotta
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 lemon zest
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Others
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Apricot jam
Directions
Step 1
Start by making the pancake batter. Whisk together the eggs, flour, milk, sparkling water, salt, and sugar in a large bowl until you have a smooth batter.
Step 2
Heat some oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Once hot, scoop ¼ cup portions of the batter into the pan and spread it out as thin as possible using the back of your spoon or ladle. Fry for about 2 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Set aside on a paper towel-lined plate once done.
Step 3
To make the cottage cheese filling, beat the egg yolk, cottage cheese, or ricotta with an electric mixer until combined and creamy. Add in lemon zest, vanilla extract, and sugar and mix until combined.
Step 4
To assemble the palacsinta Hungarian pancakes, spoon 1-2 tablespoons of the cottage cheese filling into the middle of each pancake and fold in half. Place them seam-side down on a large serving platter.
Step 5
Serve with powdered sugar, apricot jam, or your favorite toppings!
Tips
– Make sure to spread the batter as thin as possible for better results.
– You can also use store-bought pancake mix if you don’t have time to make your batter from scratch.
– If you want a richer filling, add a few tablespoons of sour cream or cream cheese to it before mixing.
Palacsinta Hungarian Pancakes Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Large Bowl
Ingredients
Pancake Batter:
- Oil for frying adjust as needed, creating a non-stick surface for cooking the pancakes, ensuring they cook evenly and develop a golden brown crust
- 1 egg providing structure and richness to the pancake batter, creating a fluffy and tender texture
- 5/8 cup whole milk adding creaminess and moisture to the pancake batter, resulting in a soft and tender texture
- Pinch of salt enhancing the overall flavor of the pancakes, balancing the sweetness and adding a subtle savory note
- 1/3 cup sparkling water providing effervescence and lightness to the batter, giving the pancakes a delicate and airy quality
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar adding a touch of sweetness to the pancakes, complementing the other flavors in the dish
- 5/8 cup all-purpose flour contributing to the structure of the pancakes, giving them a light and airy consistency
Cottage Cheese Filling:
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract enhancing the overall flavor profile of the filling, adding a sweet and aromatic note
- 1/2 tablespoon sugar adding a touch of sweetness to the filling, complementing the tanginess of the cheese and the freshness of the lemon zest
- Zest of 1/4 lemon adding a bright and citrusy flavor to the filling, balancing the richness of the cheese
- 1 egg yolk enriching the cottage cheese filling, adding a creamy and velvety texture
- 1/3 cup dry cottage cheese or ricotta providing a luscious and creamy filling for the pancakes, adding a tangy and slightly salty taste
Others:
- Apricot jam adjust as needed, serving as a delicious and fruity accompaniment to the pancakes, adding a burst of flavor and moisture
- Powdered sugar for dusting adjust as needed, adding a sweet and decorative touch to the pancakes, creating an appealing presentation
Instructions
- Start by making the pancake batter. Whisk together the eggs, flour, milk, sparkling water, salt, and sugar in a large bowl until you have a smooth batter.
- Heat some oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Once hot, scoop ¼ cup portions of the batter into the pan and spread it out as thin as possible using the back of your spoon or ladle. Fry for about 2 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Set aside on a paper towel-lined plate once done.
- To make the cottage cheese filling, beat the egg yolk, cottage cheese, or ricotta with an electric mixer until combined and creamy. Add in lemon zest, vanilla extract, and sugar and mix until combined.
- To assemble the palacsinta Hungarian pancakes, spoon 1-2 tablespoons of the cottage cheese filling into the middle of each pancake and fold in half. Place them seam-side down on a large serving platter.
- Serve with powdered sugar, apricot jam, or your favorite toppings!
Notes
Nutrition Information
One palacsinta Hungarian pancake is estimated to contain the following nutrition information: Calories – 250, Total Fat – 10g, Saturated Fat – 4g, Carbohydrates – 28g, Sugars – 9g, Protein – 11g.
What to serve with palacsinta Hungarian pancakes?
Palacsinta Hungarian pancakes can be served as a side dish or main course. You can serve them as a dessert with fresh fruit and a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream. Other toppings such as chocolate syrup or caramel sauce, can also be used for added flavor.
How to store leftover palacsinta Hungarian pancakes?
You can store leftover palacsinta Hungarian pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave them on high for 1 minute or until warm.
Can pregnant women eat this?
Yes, pregnant women can eat palacsinta Hungarian pancakes but should be aware of their individual nutritional needs and consult a doctor before consuming this dish.
FAQs
What is the origin of Palacsinta Hungarian Pancakes?
It is believed that Palacsinta Hungarian Pancakes originated in Hungary in the 19th century. The dish has since been adopted by many countries and cultures around the world.
Are palacsinta Hungarian pancakes healthy?
Palacsinta Hungarian pancakes can be a healthier alternative to other breakfast dishes, depending on the ingredients and toppings used. They are relatively low in calories and fat while providing some essential vitamins, minerals, and protein.
Wrapping Up
Thanks for reading this guide about palacsinta Hungarian pancakes! Making these delicious pancakes at home is very easy and can be a fun activity to do with the family. We hope you have enjoyed learning about this traditional dish and are now ready to give it a try!
Please share this guide with your friends and family members to spread the word about palacsinta Hungarian pancakes. Bon appetite!
Please share your experience in the comments below. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Happy Cooking!
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My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more
