Fasnachts
Fasnachts are traditional fried doughnuts with a rich, slightly sweet flavor and a tender, fluffy interior. Perfect for special occasions or as a delightful treat, they appeal to those who enjoy classic comfort foods with a hint of indulgence and nostalgic charm.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring milk and lard to the boiling point but do not boil. Stir in sugar and salt; let cool to lukewarm.
- Beat eggs and add to the milk mixture.
- Soak yeast cake in 2 tablespoons warm water and keep warm.
- Sift and measure the flour.
- Add the yeast to the lukewarm mixture and combine well.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing to form a soft dough.
- Knead the dough until smooth and elastic.
- Cover and let rise until doubled in size.
- Roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness.
- Cut into rounds or desired shapes.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry the fasnachts until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter dough, ensure the milk mixture cools to lukewarm before adding the yeast. If you don’t have lard, you can substitute it with unsalted butter or vegetable shortening. To enhance flavor, consider adding a dash of nutmeg or vanilla extract. Make sure your oil is at the correct temperature before frying to achieve a perfectly golden color.
Serving Suggestions
Serve fasnachts dusted with powdered sugar for a classic touch, or dip them in chocolate or glaze for a sweeter option. They pair beautifully with coffee or hot chocolate, making them perfect for breakfast or brunch. Consider serving alongside Aunt Hattie's Corn Pudding for a delightful meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftover fasnachts, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can freeze them by wrapping individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. To reheat, simply warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through for a fresh taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fasnachts contains roughly 377 calories, with 6g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1368mg per serving (59% 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 fasnachts ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it after kneading. Allow it to rise in the fridge overnight, then bring to room temperature before rolling out and frying. This method can enhance flavor and make for an easier cooking process on the day you plan to serve.
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).