Over thirty entries competed in the 2025 contest, each inspired by the rich natural heritage and local traditions of the Balaton region.

Confectioners drew on the area's vineyards, fruits, legends, and natural beauty to craft their desserts. Ingredients ranged from hazelnuts, walnuts, and almonds to plums, grapes, apricots, pears, figs, blueberries, and raspberries — a true reflection of Balaton’s bounty.

The winners were announced at the annual Fig Festival in Badacsony, a prominent autumn culinary event by the lake.

What sets "Hableány" apart is its balanced layers and subtle elegance rather than flashy presentation. The rectangular cake combines the deep nuttiness of hazelnuts with the brightness of raspberries.

The sponge and nougat evoke the earthiness of the lakebed, while the mousse and raspberry jelly mirror the colors of sunset. A crunchy layer adds texture reminiscent of sparkling waves on the lake’s surface — turning the dessert into a sensory story of Lake Balaton’s nature and mystery.

The cake was created by Jenő Vadócz, a decorated pastry chef at Promenád Kávéház, who aims to provide exceptional Balaton gastronomic experiences year-round, not just in summer.

Besides "Hableány," Vadócz also took top honors in the allergen-free category with "Balaton kincsei" "Treasures of Lake Balaton".

This elegant dessert features cocoa sponge cake, a blueberry-raspberry jelly, and a smooth hazelnut mousse, all while being free of common allergens to accommodate food intolerances.

In the junior category, the prize went to Nóra Lovas from the family-run Dinasztia Cukrászda in Siófok.

Her dessert "A Tópart kincse" "Treasure of the Lakeside" impressed judges with layers of plum and almond-flavored jelly spiked with "pálinka", almond mousse, cinnamon linzer, and toasted almonds, finished with a caramel glaze and golden decoration—a refined option celebrating autumn flavors with a local twist.

These award-winning desserts became available to the public starting October 13, making it a perfect time for locals and expats to enjoy Balaton’s seasonal tastes in authentic style.
 

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