Szaloncukor

Szaloncukor is a cherished Christmas treat in Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia. These fondant candies, coated in chocolate and wrapped in colorful foil, are traditionally used to decorate Christmas trees. Dating back to the 19th century, it's common for households to enjoy around 1.5 kilograms of these sweets each holiday season.

The name "szaloncukor" is derived from the German-Austrian word "Salonzuckerl" and it was originally known as "szalonczukkedli." Initially, making szaloncukor was a manual process, but with the advent of fondant machines, production became more efficient. While vanilla and strawberry were the original flavors, today you can find szaloncukor in a wide variety of tastes.

Fondant candies have a long history, originating in France in the 14th century. Their popularity spread to Hungary in the 19th century, partly thanks to German craftsmen who migrated there. It was Hungarian-French chef Hegyesi József who coined the term "szaloncukor" in 1891, drawing inspiration from the German "Salonzuckerl."

Mass production of these wrapped fondant candies began in Hungary in 1883. Chocolate factories like Gerbeaud and Kugler were instrumental in making szaloncukor a household name. By 1951, the Kuglers had opened Hungary's largest chocolate factory. In Slovakia, the DEVA chocolate factory, also established in 1951, is known for producing popular Christmas treats, including "salónky."

Szaloncukor remains an integral part of Christmas celebrations in Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia, reflecting a rich history of European confectionery and cultural traditions.