Gourmet experiences on 20 August: the Cakes of Hungary

The yearly competition keeps enriching the Hungarian confectionery industry, while the general public can discover new flavours and confectionery specialities.

Hungary’s “birthday cake” is presented to the public every year on 20 August, but the selection of the winning cake is already well underway in the months leading up to the celebrations. The competition is open to pastry chefs, master bakers and amateur bakers alike, who can enter their own cakes. The nominated cakes must be delicious and creative, and the makers must strive to reflect the country’s gastronomic diversity and cultural heritage.

Every year, participation in the competition generates great interest among pastry chefs and confectionery lovers. The best cake is selected after several rounds of voting by a jury of experts. The winning cake is awarded the title “The Cake of Hungary” and becomes known as the official cake of the country for the given year. The winning cake is then placed on the menus of confectionaries and restaurants, so that the Hungarian people can also taste the winning delicacy. The original recipe for the Cake of Hungary is published on 20 August each year on the website of the Magyar Cukrász Ipartestület (Hungarian Confectionery Industry Association).

In addition to the Cake of Hungary competition, the Egy Csepp Figyelem Alapítvány (a foundation for people with diabetes) and the Hungarian Confectionery Industry Association also organise the Sugar-free Cake of Hungary competition every year. Participants face a real challenge, as they are not allowed to use white flour, added sugar, artificial additives or preservatives in their cakes. The competition aims to promote a healthy lifestyle and healthy pastry, as well as to raise awareness of the importance of combating diabetes.

The first Cake of Hungary competition was held in 2007. For 16 years now, the competition has provided a constant challenge, as well as an opportunity for development for the domestic confectionery scene. The dessert creations not only provide a delicious experience for the Hungarian public, but also contribute to the showcasing of Hungary’s gastronomic heritage.