Fastnachts(Grace Church, Shrove Tuesday)
Fastnachts are traditional deep-fried pastries with a golden crust and soft interior, perfect for Shrove Tuesday celebrations and enjoyed with powdered sugar for added sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scald milk; stir in sugar, salt, and margarine.
- Cool to lukewarm.
- Dissolve dry yeast in warm water.
- Add yeast mixture to lukewarm milk, beaten egg, and half of the flour.
- Beat until smooth.
- Stir in remaining flour.
- Turn out onto a lightly floured board.
- Knead until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
- Place in a greased bowl, turning to grease all sides.
- Cover and let rise in a warm place until double in bulk (about 1 hour).
- Punch dough down.
- Roll out about 1/2-inch thick.
- Cut with a 2 1/2-inch round cutter (no hole in center).
- Cover and let rise in a warm place until double in bulk.
- Fry in deep lard at 375°F for 2 to 3 minutes until both sides are golden brown.
- Drain on absorbent paper.
- While warm, dust with powdered sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter dough, ensure the milk mixture is not too hot when adding the yeast. If you don't have margarine, unsalted butter can be a great substitute. To cut down on frying oil absorption, consider using a higher temperature for frying. If you prefer a sweeter treat, you can add a bit of vanilla extract or cinnamon to the dough.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious Fastnachts warm, dusted with powdered sugar, as a delightful treat at brunch or dessert. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a more indulgent experience, serve them with a side of fruit preserves or homemade whipped cream. For another sweet inspiration, try pairing them with Cherry Vanilla Parfaits.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Fastnachts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fastnachts(Grace Church, Shrove Tuesday) contains roughly 156 calories, with 4g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1008mg per serving (44% 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 instant yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast! Simply mix it directly into the dry ingredients without needing to dissolve it in warm water. The dough may rise a bit faster, so keep an eye on it during the rising times.
What is the best oil for frying Fastnachts?
Lard is traditional for frying Fastnachts, giving them a rich flavor. However, vegetable oil or canola oil can also be used for a lighter option. Make sure the oil is at 375°F for crispy, golden results.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then punch it down and refrigerate it overnight. Just allow it to come back to room temperature and rise again before rolling out and frying.
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).