Soft and Fluffy Hungarian Jam Buns (Bukta)

CB

Created By

BIG SEE

Published

April 27, 2026

Soft and Fluffy Hungarian Jam Buns (Bukta)

"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!"

Soft and Fluffy Hungarian Jam Buns (Bukta)
Prep Time
85 mins
Cook Time
25 mins
Servings
20 people
Calories
150 kcal

📊 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

⏱️ time: 15 mins mins

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

⏱️ time: 45 mins mins

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

⏱️ time: 10 mins mins

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

⏱️ time: 25 mins mins

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

⏱️ time: 25 mins mins

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.

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