Hungarian Jam-Filled Crepes (Palacsinta)

Soft, Thin & Delicious Hungarian Pancakes Filled with Homemade-Style Fruit Jam

Hungarian Palacsinta is a classic dessert made from thin, delicate pancakes that are traditionally filled with jam, powdered sugar, ground walnuts, or sweet cottage cheese. In the photo, the crepes are rolled around apricot and cherry jam and finished with a generous dusting of powdered sugar.

This simple Hungarian recipe makes a beautiful dessert for breakfast, afternoon coffee, or a family gathering.

🇭🇺 Hungarian Palacsinta with Apricot & Cherry Jam

Ingredients

For the crepes:

• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups (480 ml) milk
• 1 cup (240 ml) sparkling water or plain water
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pinch of salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Extra oil or butter, for frying

For the filling:

• Apricot jam, as needed
• Cherry or sour-cherry jam, as needed

For serving:

• Powdered sugar
• Optional: chopped walnuts
• Optional: fresh fruit

Instructions

1. Prepare the batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.

Gradually add the flour while whisking continuously to create a smooth batter without lumps.

Pour in the sparkling water and vegetable oil. Mix until the batter is thin and pourable, similar to heavy cream.

For the best texture, let the batter rest for 10–15 minutes.

2. Cook the crepes

Heat a lightly greased non-stick frying pan over medium heat.

Pour a small ladleful of batter into the pan and immediately swirl the pan so the batter spreads into a very thin, even layer.

Cook for about 1–2 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn golden and the surface is set. Flip and cook the other side for approximately 30–60 seconds.

Transfer the finished crepe to a plate and continue with the remaining batter.

3. Fill the Palacsinta

Spread a thin layer of apricot jam or cherry jam over each crepe.

Do not add too much filling, as it can make the crepes difficult to roll.

Fold the sides slightly inward and roll each pancake tightly into a cylinder.

4. Serve

Arrange the rolled crepes on a serving plate and generously dust them with powdered sugar.

For an extra Hungarian touch, serve them with chopped walnuts, additional jam, or fresh fruit.

Recipe Tips

• Keep the batter thin: Traditional Palacsinta should be delicate rather than thick like American-style pancakes.
• Use sparkling water: It can help create a lighter, more tender texture.
• Rest the batter: Even a short resting period helps the flour hydrate and produces smoother crepes.
• Don't overfill: A thin layer of jam gives the best balance between the crepe and filling.
• Keep cooked crepes covered: Place them under a clean kitchen towel while preparing the rest so they remain soft.

How to Store Hungarian Palacsinta

Unfilled crepes can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Place parchment paper between them if desired.

Filled crepes are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be refrigerated and gently reheated before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Palacsinta?

Palacsinta is the Hungarian version of a thin, delicate crepe. It can be served sweet or savory, although sweet versions filled with jam, walnuts, or sweet cheese are especially popular.

What jam is traditionally used?

Apricot jam is one of the most popular choices, but sour-cherry, plum, raspberry, or strawberry jam can also be used.

Can I make Palacsinta without sparkling water?

Yes. You can replace the sparkling water with regular water or additional milk. Sparkling water simply helps give the crepes a particularly light texture.

Can I prepare the crepes in advance?

Absolutely. Cook the crepes ahead of time, stack them on a plate, cover them, and refrigerate. Fill them shortly before serving.

🍑 Final Thoughts

Hungarian Jam-Filled Palacsinta is a wonderfully simple dessert that combines thin, tender crepes with bright fruit jam and powdered sugar. Whether you choose sweet apricot jam or tangy sour-cherry preserves, these traditional Hungarian pancakes are easy to prepare and perfect for sharing.

Recipe: Hungarian Palacsinta
Cuisine: Hungarian
Category: Dessert / Breakfast
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Resting Time: 10–15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 8–10 crepes