🇭🇺 Fánk (Hungarian Donuts)

Golden on the outside, light and fluffy on the inside, Fánk is one of Hungary’s most beloved sweet treats. Traditionally made during Carnival season (Farsang), these pillowy yeast-raised donuts are often served with apricot jam and a generous dusting of powdered sugar. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, dessert, or with an afternoon coffee, homemade Fánk is pure comfort food.

⏱️ Recipe Information

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: About 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 12–15 donuts
Cuisine: Hungarian
Difficulty: Intermediate

🍩 Ingredients

For the Dough

500 g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
250 ml (1 cup) whole milk, warmed
7 g (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
60 g (¼ cup) granulated sugar
4 egg yolks
60 g (¼ cup) unsalted butter, melted
1 tbsp rum (optional)
1 tsp vanilla extract
Grated zest of 1 lemon
½ tsp salt

For Frying

Vegetable or sunflower oil

For Serving

Powdered sugar
Apricot jam
Raspberry or plum jam

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, 1 tablespoon of the sugar, and the yeast.

Let stand for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

Flour
Remaining sugar
Salt
Lemon zest

Add:

Yeast mixture
Egg yolks
Melted butter
Vanilla extract
Rum (if using)

Mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.

Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth, elastic, and slightly glossy.

Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Donuts

Punch down the dough and roll it out to about 1½ cm (½ inch) thick.

Using a round cutter or glass, cut out circles of dough.

Place them on a lightly floured tray.

Cover and let rise again for 20–30 minutes until puffy.

Step 5: Fry the Donuts

Heat oil to 170–175°C (340–350°F) in a deep pot.

Carefully place a few donuts into the hot oil.

Fry for:

2–3 minutes on the first side
1–2 minutes on the second side

The donuts should develop a beautiful golden color and the classic pale ring around the center.

Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Dust generously with powdered sugar.

Serve warm with apricot jam, raspberry preserves, or plum jam.

🍽️ Traditional Hungarian Serving Style

In Hungary, Fánk is often served with a spoonful of apricot jam placed in the center of the donut or on the side for dipping. The sweet-tart jam perfectly complements the soft, airy dough.