
Hungarian Krémes is a beloved traditional Hungarian pastry made with crisp, flaky pastry layers and a generous filling of silky vanilla custard. Finished with a delicate dusting of powdered sugar, this elegant dessert has a wonderful contrast between buttery pastry and smooth, creamy filling.
Known for its refined appearance and comforting vanilla flavor, Krémes is a classic found in Hungarian pastry shops and family kitchens alike.
What Is Hungarian Krémes?
The Hungarian word krémes can be translated as “creamy” or “cream-filled.” The dessert consists of two thin layers of flaky pastry surrounding a thick, airy vanilla custard.
Unlike many cream cakes, Krémes is relatively simple in appearance, allowing the pastry and custard to take center stage. The finished squares are traditionally cut into neat portions and generously dusted with powdered sugar.
Ingredients
For the Pastry
- 2 sheets puff pastry
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar, optional
For the Vanilla Custard
- 4 cups whole milk
- 6 large egg yolks
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest, optional
- Pinch of salt
For Finishing
- Powdered sugar, for dusting









