What is szaloncukor and why do Hungarians spend so much on it?

There is a special Christmas bonbon which cannot be missing from the Hungarian Christmas trees. It is called “szaloncukor”, and Hungarians like to refer to it as a Hungaricum because it only exists in a few countries around the globe. Hungarian chocolate factories dazzle our taste buds with the most unique flavours each year. Szaloncukor is hard to resist as it tastes and looks amazing. But where does it come from and why do Hungarians spend billions of forints on it every year?

The origins

According to Sokszínűvidék, the beloved candy originally came to Hungary from abroad. They, however, highlighted the fact that the szaloncukor has changed so much over the years that it can be rightfully referred to as Hungaricum.

They wrote, that the paper-wrapped candy, which was originally filled with fondant made from sugary syrup, arrived to Hungary through the Germans. Hence, the name of the Christmas bonbon also comes from the German “salonzuckerl”.

In the past, the famous Hungarian writer, Mór Jókai called it “szalonczukkedli”, and by the end of the 19^th century, szaloncukor became very popular in Hungary and the neighbouring regions.

In addition to being an important part of the Hungarian festive traditions, these edible Christmas tree ornaments are also present in the Romanian and Slovakian homes.