Celestial Crusts
Celestial Crusts are delicate, deep-fried pastries with a crispy exterior, subtly flavored with nutmeg, perfect for a sweet snack or dessert treat enjoyed warm or cold.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cream, milk, and unbeaten egg yolks together.
- Sift flour with sugar and salt into a bowl.
- Add the liquid mixture to the sifted dry ingredients and combine to form a dough.
- Form the dough into balls about the size of a half walnut.
- Roll each ball very thin on a floured board until nearly the size of a saucer.
- Slit each pastry four times.
- Fry in deep fat at 395°F (200°C), turning once, until golden brown.
- Sprinkle with sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your egg yolks are at room temperature before mixing with cream and milk. If you're out of cream, you can substitute it with additional milk or a non-dairy alternative. Adding a hint of nutmeg enhances the flavor, but it remains optional. Keep your frying oil at a consistent temperature for crispy results, and consider using a thermometer to monitor the heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Celestial Crusts warm, sprinkled with sugar for sweetness. They pair beautifully with a cup of Irish Coffee for a delightful treat. Consider adding a side of fresh fruit or a light salad, such as Lillian's Salad, to create a balanced meal. These crusts also make a great accompaniment to desserts or as a snack on their own.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Celestial Crusts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Celestial Crusts contains roughly 264 calories, with 6g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 498mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Allow it to come to room temperature before rolling out and frying to ensure even cooking.
What type of oil is best for frying these crusts?
For frying Celestial Crusts, use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil or canola oil. This will help achieve a golden-brown color while avoiding any strong flavors that could interfere with the delicate taste of the crusts.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
While frying gives the crusts their signature texture, you can experiment with baking them. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the rolled-out dough on a baking sheet, and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).