Mákos fentő is a special dessert from the Palóc cuisine, often called the elegant cousin of mákos guba. It’s a type of baked dough that, once out of the oven, is soaked in hot milk to make it soft and rich.

The Palóc people traditionally lived in the Mátra and Bükk regions, as well as the Nógrád Basin and Ipoly Valley, in the 19th and 20th centuries. Their culture was shaped by shared folklore, large family structures, the Roman Catholic faith and a unique dialect.

This dessert reflects that heritage. It’s made by shaping dough into delicate rose-like rolls, baking them until golden, then drenching them in hot milk. A drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of sweetened poppy seeds complete the dish, making it a comforting and nostalgic treat.

Whether you have Palóc roots or are just curious about traditional Hungarian sweets, mákos fentő is a must-try. Enjoy its soft, milk-soaked texture and rich flavors with a cup of tea or coffee.