Summer Staples Lángos and Ice Cream Just Got Pricier

The Oeconomus Center has analyzed the expected prices of two popular summer foods in Hungary: ice cream and lángos (fried dough). With the summer heatwave’s unmistakable arrival, ice cream parlors have opened, and confectioneries that operate year-round are already offering refreshing treats.

The study examined average prices anticipated for the summer season, considering regional differences and rising costs affecting production and sales. Based on the findings of the think-tank, prices for ice cream scoops may increase by around 10 to 15 percent this year. The most common price is approximately 600 forints (about 1.49 euros) for a scoop.

This change is possibly due to the fact that international prices for dairy products and cocoa in particular have risen sharply. Nevertheless, consumers are less price-sensitive when it comes to ice cream. The Hungarian ice cream season typically runs from spring to late fall.

Classic flavors such as chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, and lemon remain favorites, but new flavors such as pistachio and mango are gaining popularity. Exotic flavors such as Dubai chocolate and dragon fruit are broadening the flavor spectrum.

Price variations between regions remain evident. Compared to other European countries, domestic ice cream prices are generally lower.

Lángos, a traditional Hungarian fried dough dish, is expected to become roughly 20 percent more expensive this summer. This increase is mainly due to higher raw material costs and operating expenses. The prices of flour and cooking oil in particular have risen sharply. The price freeze on certain staple foods could mitigate the increase, as some ingredients used in lángos—such as milk, cooking oil, flour, sour cream, and Trappist cheese—are on the list of price-regulated products. The average price for a plain lángos is projected to be between 1,200 and 1,300 forints (2.97 to 3.22 euros).

Via Oeconomus Center; Featured photo: Pexels