A SWEET DELIGHT - Transylvanian Chimney Cakes
Transylvanian Chimney Cakes at the Mercado de Cervantes
If there’s one thing our family can’t resist at the Mercado de Cervantes, it’s the warm, delicious Transylvanian Chimney Cakes from our favorite vendor, Kurtos Kalacs. These spiral-shaped pastries are a highlight of our yearly visit, and trust me, they’re worth every penny!
The History of Chimney Cakes
Chimney Cakes, or Kürtőskalács, hail from the heart of Transylvania in Romania, where they’ve been made for centuries. Traditionally baked over an open flame, they get their name from the cylindrical shape and the sweet steam that rises like a chimney as they cook. Originally a festive treat for special occasions, Chimney Cakes have become a beloved snack across Eastern Europe, especially at festivals and markets.
How They’re Made
Watching a Chimney Cake being made is part of the fun! The dough is rolled out and wrapped around a wooden or metal spit, then coated with butter and slowly roasted over a fire until it’s golden and crispy. The secret is in the rolling! As the dough cooks, it forms a delicate caramelized crust. Once off the fire, the cakes are immediately rolled in one of several tasty toppings—each bite is a perfect blend of crispy outside and soft, fluffy inside.
Flavor Heaven
At Kurtos Kalacs, you can choose from a variety of mouthwatering flavors:
Normal – The classic with just the caramelized crust.
Cinnamon Sugar – Our family’s favorite! Warm, spicy cinnamon mixed with sugar, giving the cake a perfect balance of sweet and spice.
Cocoa – Chocolate lovers rejoice! This version is dusted with rich cocoa powder.
Coconut – Light and tropical, perfect for those looking for something unique.
Almonds & Walnuts – Nutty and crunchy, a favorite for those who love texture in their treats.
Personally, we can’t resist the Cinnamon Sugar flavor. It’s the perfect mix of crunchy and sweet, and it feels like a hug in food form!
The Story of Kurtos Kalacs
We’ve been getting our Chimney Cakes from Kurtos Kalacs for the past few years at the Mercado de Cervantes. This wonderful family-run business is helmed by Romanians who have been living in Spain for 23 years, traveling to festivals all over the country to share their passion for this delicious treat. Every year, we look forward to seeing their stand and grabbing our traditional snack. For just €6 for one or €10 for two, these cakes are a steal—and trust me, once you’ve had one, you’ll want that second!
Whether you’re a festival-goer or just a lover of good food, Transylvanian Chimney Cakes are an experience you won’t want to miss. Next time you’re at the Mercado de Cervantes, stop by Kurtos Kalacs, grab a cake or two (or three!), and indulge in a sweet, crispy taste of Transylvania. For our family, it’s not just a snack—it’s a tradition.
Before you go, take a moment to scroll through our photo gallery below! 📸 We've captured the mouthwatering beauty of these Transylvanian Chimney Cakes in all their delicious forms. From the crispy cinnamon sugar to the rich cocoa and nutty toppings, the pictures alone will make your stomach rumble! Have you ever tried a Chimney Cake? If not, which flavor would you want to taste first? Drop a comment below and let us know your pick! We’d love to hear from fellow foodies!
