Name: Palacsinta (Hungarian Crepes) Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 9 h 10 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: For Pancakes:; 2 cups all purpose flour; 2 eggs; 1 cup milk; 1 cup soda water; ½ cup Vegetable Oil; 1 pinch salt; For Almond Filling:; 1 cup almonds; ½ cup white sugar; ¼ cup milk; ¼ tsp vanilla extract; 1½ tsp rum; For Chocolate Topping:; ¼ cup water; ½ cup white sugar; ½ cup bitter sweet chocolate; 2 tbsp margarine

Hungarian crepes, also known as Palacsinta, are delectable thin pancakes filled with an assortment of fillings. This particular recipe features a sweet and crunchy almond filling and is topped off with a rich chocolate sauce. Palacsinta is a beloved dessert in Hungary and is often served at celebrations and family gatherings. It's a delicious treat that's sure to impress your guests.

Photos of Palacsinta (Hungarian Crepes) Recipe

While most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples, there are a couple that you might need to seek out. Soda water, used in the crepe batter, is carbonated water and can be found in the beverage aisle of most grocery stores. As for the almond filling, look for whole almonds in the nuts section - you can chop these down for the recipe. Bittersweet chocolate is usually found in the baking aisle. If you can't find it, a good substitute is semi-sweet chocolate or dark chocolate.

Ingredients for Hungarian Crepes (Palacsinta)

All purpose flour: The base of the crepe batter, all-purpose flour gives the crepes their structure.

Eggs: Eggs are essential for the batter, as they help to bind the ingredients together.

Milk: Adds moisture to the batter and helps to create a smooth consistency.

Soda water: Adds lightness to the crepes, making them fluffy and soft.

Vegetable oil: Used in the batter to keep the crepes from sticking and adds a light crispness.

Salt: Enhances the other flavors in the crepes.

Almonds: The primary ingredient in the filling, almonds add a delicious crunch and flavor.

White sugar: Adds sweetness to both the filling and the chocolate topping.

Vanilla extract: Used in the filling, it adds a hint of warm, sweet flavor.

Rum: Optional in the filling, it adds a little extra kick and depth of flavor.

Water: Used in the chocolate topping to help melt the chocolate.

Bittersweet chocolate: The key ingredient in the topping, bittersweet chocolate adds a rich and decadent taste.

Margarine: Used in the chocolate topping to create a smooth and glossy finish.

One reader, Bondy George says:

I recently tried the Hungarian crepes recipe for palacsinta and it was a delightful experience! The crepes were light and fluffy, and the almond filling and chocolate topping added a delicious touch. It's a must-try for anyone looking to explore new flavors and enjoy a delightful treat. Highly recommended!

Bondy George

Essential Techniques for Making Hungarian Crepes

How to make pancakes: Combine the flour and eggs and mix until smooth. Add the milk, soda water, vegetable oil, and salt and mix to combine. Refrigerate the batter overnight. Heat a lightly greased frying pan over medium heat. Remove the batter from the refrigerator and mix well. Pour ¼ cup of the batter into the pan and cook the pancake for about 1 minute. Flip it over and cook for 1 minute more, or until golden brown. Remove the pancake from the pan and place it on waxed paper. Repeat with the remaining batter, stacking the pancakes while keeping them separate with waxed paper.

How to make almond filling: Combine the chopped almonds, sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and rum, if desired, in a saucepan. Cook and stir over low heat until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is creamy. Allow it to cool slightly before filling the pancakes.

How to make chocolate topping: Combine the water, sugar, and chocolate in a saucepan and cook over low heat just until the chocolate melts. Remove the pan from the heat and add the margarine, stirring until melted and combined. Spread 1 heaping tablespoon of almond filling onto each pancake, roll them up, and place them on a platter. Pour the chocolate topping over the platter of rolled pancakes.

How To Make Palacsinta (Hungarian Crepes)

Treat your tastebuds to these delightfully delicious Hungarian crepes or palacsinta that are made with almond filling and chocolate topping.

Preparation: 40 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Chill Time: 8 hours

Total: 9 hours 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Pancakes:

2cupsall purpose flour
2eggs
1cupmilk
1cupsoda water
½cupvegetable oil
1pinchsalt

For Almond Filling:

1cupalmonds,chopped
½cupwhite sugar
¼cupmilk
¼tspvanilla extract
1½tsprum,optional

For Chocolate Topping:

¼cupwater
½cupwhite sugar
½cupbitter sweet chocolate,chopped
2tbspmargarine

Instructions

Pancakes:

Combine the flour and eggs and mix until smooth. Add the milk, soda water, vegetable oil, and salt and mix to combine.
Refrigerate the batter overnight.
Heat a lightly greased frying pan over medium heat. Remove the batter from the refrigerator and mix well.
Pour ¼ cup of the batter into the pan and cook the pancake for about 1 minute. Flip it over and cook for 1 minute more, or until golden brown.
Remove the pancake from the pan and place it on waxed paper. Repeat with the remaining batter, stacking the pancakes while keeping them separate with waxed paper.

Almond Filling:

Combine the chopped almonds, sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and rum, if desired, in a saucepan. Cook and stir over low heat until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is creamy.
Allow it to cool slightly before filling the pancakes.

Chocolate Topping:

Combine the water, sugar, and chocolate in a saucepan and cook over low heat just until the chocolate melts. Remove the pan from the heat and add the margarine, stirring until melted and combined.
Spread 1 heaping tablespoon of almond filling onto each pancake, rolling them up, and placing them on a platter. Pour the chocolate topping over the platter of rolled pancakes.
Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 344.57kcal
Fat: 19.46g
Saturated Fat: 2.49g
Trans Fat: 0.42g
Monounsaturated Fat: 12.06g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.92g
Carbohydrates: 37.46g
Fiber: 2.15g
Sugar: 19.41g
Protein: 6.44g
Cholesterol: 29.20mg
Sodium: 53.98mg
Calcium: 69.71mg
Potassium: 159.33mg
Iron: 1.60mg
Vitamin A: 23.16µg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Hungarian Crepes

When making the pancakes, ensure the pan is at the right temperature before adding the batter. A good way to test this is by adding a small drop of batter to the pan. If it sizzles immediately, the pan is ready. If it burns quickly, the pan is too hot and you need to reduce the heat. This will ensure your palacsinta are cooked evenly and have a beautiful golden brown color.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Palacsinta

Prepare the batter: To save time, prepare the pancake batter the night before and refrigerate it. This will allow the flavors to develop and the batter to thicken, resulting in better texture and taste.

Organize your workspace: Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients and cooking tools are easily accessible. This will help you work more efficiently and prevent any last-minute scrambling for items.

Multi-task: While the pancakes are cooking, you can simultaneously prepare the almond filling and chocolate topping. This will help streamline the cooking process and save time.

Use non-stick cookware: Cooking the pancakes in non-stick cookware will prevent them from sticking and tearing, allowing you to cook them faster and more efficiently.

Pre-portion the batter: Use a measuring cup to portion out the pancake batter, ensuring each pancake is of uniform size and cooks evenly. This will save time and result in consistent pancakes.

Substitute Ingredients For Palacsinta (Hungarian Crepes) Recipe

all purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour: This substitution is suitable for those who are gluten intolerant or have celiac disease. It provides a gluten-free alternative without compromising the texture of the crepes.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water for each egg): Flax eggs are a suitable vegan alternative that provides binding properties similar to eggs in the batter.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative, adding a subtle nutty flavor to the crepe batter.
soda water - Substitute with sparkling water: Sparkling water can be used as a substitute to provide the same lightness and fluffiness to the crepes.
vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a hint of coconut flavor to the crepes, providing a unique twist to the traditional recipe.
almonds - Substitute with cashews: Cashews can be used as a substitute for almonds in the filling, providing a creamy and nutty flavor.
white sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a natural alternative to white sugar, adding a subtle caramel-like flavor to the almond filling.
milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative, adding richness to the almond filling.
bitter sweet chocolate - Substitute with dark chocolate: Dark chocolate can be used as a substitute, providing a slightly less sweet but rich flavor for the topping.
margarine - Substitute with butter: Butter can be used as a substitute for margarine, providing a rich and creamy flavor to the chocolate topping.

Best Presentation Ideas for Hungarian Crepes

Elevate the pancake: Carefully roll the palacsinta into elegant spirals to create a visually appealing presentation on the plate. Ensure that the edges are neatly tucked in for a polished look.
Garnish with almond: Sprinkle finely chopped almonds over the rolled palacsinta to add a delightful crunch and enhance the overall texture of the dish.
Drizzle with chocolate: Create a beautiful drizzle of the rich chocolate topping over the palacsinta, ensuring that it cascades gracefully over the edges, adding a touch of decadence to the presentation.
Dust with powdered sugar: Lightly dust the plated palacsinta with a fine layer of powdered sugar to add a subtle sweetness and a touch of elegance to the dish.
Arrange on a platter: Artfully arrange the filled and garnished palacsinta on a pristine white platter, ensuring that each roll is placed with precision and attention to detail.
Add a touch of color: Introduce a pop of color to the presentation by garnishing the platter with a few fresh berries, strategically placed to create visual interest and balance.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce delicate and edible flowers to the platter, adding a touch of sophistication and a visually stunning element to the overall presentation.
Use fine dining serveware: Present the palacsinta on elegant serveware that complements the dish, such as delicate porcelain or fine bone china, to elevate the dining experience.

Essential Tools for Making Palacsinta

Frying pan: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for boiling, stewing, and making sauces.
Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, blunt blade, used for mixing, spreading, and flipping foods.
Whisk: A utensil with a handle and wire loops, used for beating, blending, and whipping ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used to measure precise amounts of ingredients for recipes.
Mixing bowl: A deep bowl used for mixing ingredients, marinating, and storing food.
Frying spatula: A long-handled spatula with a wide, flat blade, used for flipping and turning foods while frying.
Waxed paper: A moisture-resistant paper used for lining pans, wrapping foods, and separating layers of baked goods.

Storing and Freezing Hungarian Crepes

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for palacsinta: hungarian crepes recipe:

Allow the crepes to cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator:
- Stack the cooled crepes with a piece of waxed paper or parchment paper between each one to prevent sticking.
- Place the stack of crepes in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the crepes:
- Follow the same stacking method as for refrigerator storage, using waxed paper or parchment paper between each crepe.
- Place the stack of crepes in a freezer-safe airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To thaw frozen crepes:
- Remove the desired number of crepes from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Alternatively, you can thaw the crepes at room temperature for about an hour.
To reheat crepes:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the crepes on a baking sheet and cover them with foil.
- Heat in the oven for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.
- You can also reheat individual crepes in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for a few seconds.
Note: It's best to store and freeze the crepes without the filling or topping. Prepare the almond filling and chocolate topping when you're ready to serve the palacsinta.

How To Reheat Leftover Hungarian Crepes

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover palacsinta on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the crepes with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This method is ideal for reheating a large batch of palacsinta while maintaining their texture and moisture.
For a quick and easy reheating option, use your microwave. Place a single palacsinta on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for 15-20 seconds. If you're reheating multiple crepes, add an extra 10 seconds for each additional piece. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the crepes to become rubbery.
If you prefer a crispy exterior, reheat your palacsinta in a skillet or griddle. Heat a small amount of butter or oil over medium heat. Place the crepe in the skillet and cook for 30-60 seconds on each side, or until warmed through and slightly crispy. This method is perfect for those who enjoy a contrast of textures in their palacsinta.
For a more indulgent reheating method, use a combination of the oven and skillet techniques. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the leftover palacsinta on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. Then, melt a small amount of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Transfer the warmed crepes to the skillet and cook for an additional 30-60 seconds on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown, crispy exterior. This method ensures that your palacsinta are heated through while also providing a delightful crunch.

Interesting Fact About Hungarian Crepes

Palacsinta is a traditional Hungarian dish that is often enjoyed as a dessert or a sweet treat. It is similar to French crepes but typically thicker and fluffier. The dish is often filled with various sweet fillings such as jam, nuts, or chocolate, and then topped with powdered sugar or syrup. Palacsinta is a popular dish in Hungary and is often enjoyed during festivals and special occasions.

Is Making Palacsinta at Home Cost-Effective?

This Hungarian palacsinta recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are simple and affordable, making it a budget-friendly option. The versatility of the recipe allows for various fillings, catering to different preferences without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$15, making it an economical choice. Overall Verdict: 9/10.

Are Hungarian Crepes Healthy or Unhealthy?

The Hungarian crepes recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy due to several factors:

The batter contains refined all-purpose flour, which is low in fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain alternatives.
The recipe calls for a significant amount of vegetable oil, which is high in calories and may contain unhealthy fats.
The almond filling is made with sugar and milk, adding to the overall calorie and sugar content of the dish.
The chocolate topping is also high in sugar and contains margarine, which may be a source of unhealthy trans fats.

However, the recipe does include some nutritious ingredients, such as almonds, which are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. The use of milk in the batter and filling also adds some calcium and protein to the dish.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or oat flour to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
Reduce the amount of vegetable oil in the batter or replace it with a healthier alternative, such as coconut oil or avocado oil.
Use a natural sweetener, such as honey or maple syrup, instead of white sugar in the almond filling and chocolate topping.
Replace the milk in the almond filling with a plant-based alternative, such as almond milk or coconut milk, to reduce the dairy content.
Use dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) instead of bittersweet chocolate in the topping to increase the antioxidant content and reduce the sugar.
Add fresh fruit, such as sliced bananas or berries, to the crepes for added fiber, vitamins, and natural sweetness.

Editor's Opinion on This Hungarian Crepes Recipe

The palacsinta recipe is a delightful combination of light, fluffy pancakes filled with a creamy almond mixture and topped with a rich chocolate sauce. The overnight refrigeration of the batter allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a tender texture. The almond filling provides a sweet and nutty contrast to the delicate pancakes, while the luscious chocolate topping adds a decadent finish. This traditional Hungarian dish is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

Enhance Your Palacsinta (Hungarian Crepes) Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Vegetables: Create a colorful and flavorful medley of grilled vegetables to complement the sweet and rich flavors of the palacsinta.

Braised Pork Belly: Indulge in the succulent and tender braised pork belly, adding a savory and hearty element to the meal.

Fresh Fruit Salad: Prepare a refreshing and vibrant fresh fruit salad, providing a light and juicy contrast to the decadent palacsinta.

Creamy Mushroom Soup: Serve a velvety and comforting creamy mushroom soup, offering a warm and earthy accompaniment to the palacsinta.

Similar Recipes to Hungarian Crepes

Hungarian Goulash: This hearty stew is packed with tender beef, onions, and paprika, simmered to perfection. Serve it over a bed of buttery noodles for a comforting meal.

Mango Salsa: Fresh mango, red onion, jalapeno, and cilantro come together in this vibrant and flavorful salsa. Perfect for topping grilled fish or chicken, or for scooping up with tortilla chips.

Butternut Squash Soup: Velvety smooth and rich, this butternut squash soup is the ultimate comfort food. Garnish with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of crispy bacon for an extra touch of indulgence.

Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Palacsinta

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and crispy for a delicious bite-sized treat.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic bruschetta. Toasted baguette slices topped with a vibrant mixture of tomatoes, basil, garlic, and balsamic glaze. It's a refreshing and satisfying start to any meal.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Creamy and indulgent, this dish features tender chicken and al dente pasta smothered in a rich and savory Alfredo sauce. The flavors meld together perfectly, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.

Beef Stroganoff: Tender strips of beef are cooked in a luscious and flavorful sauce, then served over a bed of buttery egg noodles. This classic dish is hearty, comforting, and sure to please the whole family.

Why trust this Palacsinta (Hungarian Crepes) Recipe:

This recipe for Hungarian palacsinta offers a delightful combination of crepes, almond filling, and a rich chocolate topping. The batter is left to rest overnight, allowing the flavors to develop. The almond filling is made with creamy milk, aromatic vanilla extract, and a hint of rum, adding a touch of sophistication. The chocolate topping is a luscious blend of bittersweet chocolate and margarine, creating a decadent finish. Trust in the traditional techniques and quality ingredients to create an authentic and indulgent experience.

Have you tried making Palacsinta, the delightful Hungarian crepes? Share your experience, tips, and variations in the Recipe Sharing forum and let's discuss!

FAQ:

Can I make the pancake batter and almond filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the pancake batter and almond filling ahead of time. The pancake batter can be refrigerated overnight, and the almond filling can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it.

Can I substitute the almonds in the filling with a different nut?

Absolutely! You can substitute the almonds with any other nut of your choice, such as walnuts or hazelnuts, to create a different flavor profile for the filling.

Can I use a different type of chocolate for the topping?

Of course! You can use milk chocolate or dark chocolate instead of bittersweet chocolate for the topping, depending on your preference. Each type of chocolate will bring a unique flavor to the dish.

Can I freeze the prepared palacsinta for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the prepared palacsinta for later use. Simply place waxed paper between the rolled pancakes to prevent sticking, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag before freezing.

Can I serve the palacsinta with additional toppings or garnishes?

Absolutely! You can get creative with additional toppings or garnishes such as whipped cream, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar to enhance the presentation and flavor of the palacsinta.