"Jam-filled bukta is a true Hungarian classic that evokes warm childhood memories. A fruity, sweet filling wrapped in a soft, airy yeast dough that transports you back to grandma's kitchen with every bite. While it takes some patience to prepare, the homemade result is absolutely worth it!"
📊 Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Carbs: 25g
- Fat: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
🛒 Ingredients
Dough
- 500g all-purpose flour (sifted)
- 2 egg yolks
- 50g granulated sugar
- 50g margarine (melted (butter can also be used))
- 1 pinch salt
- 25g fresh yeast (or 7g active dry yeast)
- 250ml lukewarm milk
Filling & Topping
- 200g bake-stable jam (plum or apricot jam is traditional)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for greasing the baking pan)
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast & Knead
Dissolve the yeast in the lukewarm milk along with a pinch of sugar and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. Sift the flour into a large mixing bowl, then add the activated yeast mixture, egg yolks, remaining sugar, melted margarine, and a pinch of salt. Knead the ingredients thoroughly by hand or with a stand mixer until you get a smooth, elastic dough.
Step 2: First Rise
Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and place it in a warm, draft-free spot. Let the dough rise for about 45 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 3: Roll and Portion
Turn the risen dough out onto a lightly floured work surface and roll it out to a thickness of about 0.5 cm (1/4 inch). Cut the dough into 20 equal rectangular pieces. Place a spoonful of bake-stable jam in the center of each piece.
Step 4: Shape and Second Rise
Carefully roll up the jam-filled dough pieces, tucking the ends in to seal the jam inside. Place them seam-side down, side-by-side, into a greased baking pan. Cover and let them rest for another 20 minutes to rise again.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Gently brush the tops of the buns with the beaten egg to give them a beautiful, shiny finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are a rich golden brown.
📝 Author Notes
This recipe is a nostalgic trip down memory lane. Bukta is a staple of Hungarian home baking, traditionally made on weekends to be enjoyed warm with a glass of milk.
🥡 Storage Tips
Store any leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Reheat for 10 seconds in the microwave to restore their pillowy softness.