Fastnachts
Fastnachts are traditional fried German doughnuts with a light, fluffy texture and subtle sweetness, perfect for festive occasions or as a comforting treat any time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place flour in a bowl; make a well in the center.
- Soften the yeast and 1/2 tablespoon of sugar in 1/2 cup of milk.
- Pour the yeast mixture into the well in the flour.
- Mix and let rise until light and doubled in size.
- Add the remaining milk, egg, salt, sugar, and melted shortening to the dough.
- Work the ingredients into a smooth dough.
- Knead thoroughly, adding more flour if necessary.
- Roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness.
- Cut into doughnut shapes or rounds.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the doughnuts until golden brown on both sides.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure your Fastnachts are light and fluffy, make sure the yeast is fresh and fully activated before mixing it into the flour. If you don’t have a yeast cake, you can substitute with 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast. For a hint of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of nutmeg or cinnamon to the dough. Ensure the oil is at the right temperature for frying to achieve that perfect golden color.
Serving Suggestions
Fastnachts are best served warm, dusted with powdered sugar or filled with fruit preserves for an extra treat. They pair beautifully with coffee or hot chocolate for a delightful breakfast or snack. Consider serving alongside a fruit salad or yogurt for a balanced meal. For a unique twist, try them with maple syrup or chocolate sauce for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Fastnachts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to a month. To reheat, simply pop them in a toaster oven or a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fastnachts contains roughly 700 calories, with 13g protein, 138g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (29% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1524mg per serving (66% 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 use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour for Fastnachts?
Yes, all-purpose flour can be used in place of bread flour in this recipe. While it may result in a slightly different texture, your Fastnachts will still be delicious. Just ensure you knead the dough thoroughly to develop enough gluten for a good rise.
What is the best way to know when the oil is ready for frying?
To check if the oil is at the right temperature for frying, drop a small piece of dough into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready. Alternatively, you can use a thermometer to ensure it reaches 350°F (175°C) for the perfect frying temperature.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it after the first rise. Just cover it with plastic wrap and let it rise slowly in the fridge. When ready to fry, let it come to room temperature before rolling and cutting.
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).