Fastnaughts (Shrove Cakes)
Fastnaughts are traditional Shrove Cakes, crispy and tender, perfect for a festive treat or snack. They are simple to make and delight with their golden, fried exterior.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix dry ingredients and add shortening and eggs.
- Add milk and knead the mixture on a floured board.
- Roll out the dough to about the thickness of pie crust.
- Cut into squares and make a small slit in the middle of each.
- Fry in deep fat until golden brown.
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a kitchen scale to measure your flour accurately. If you're out of shortening, butter or margarine can be substituted, but the texture may vary slightly. Knead the dough only until combined to avoid tough cakes. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the milk before mixing. These Fastnaughts are also delightful when served with a dollop of jam or whipped cream.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Fastnaughts warm, dusted with powdered sugar for a classic touch. They pair beautifully with fresh fruit or a side of maple syrup for dipping. For a delightful afternoon treat, enjoy them alongside a cup of tea or coffee. Consider browsing more American recipes for other delicious options to complement your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Fastnaughts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a toaster oven or a skillet over low heat to maintain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent them from becoming soggy. You can also freeze them for up to a month; just ensure they are well-wrapped.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fastnaughts (Shrove Cakes) contains roughly 286 calories, with 7g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (25% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2264mg per serving (98% 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 a few hours in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to use, allow it to come to room temperature before rolling it out. This will make it easier to handle and shape into squares.
What type of oil is best for frying?
For frying Fastnaughts, use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil. This will ensure that the cakes fry evenly without imparting any strong flavors. Make sure the oil is hot enough to achieve a golden brown color without absorbing too much oil.
Can I add flavors to the batter?
Absolutely! You can customize the flavor of your Fastnaughts by incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or by adding citrus zest for a refreshing twist. A teaspoon of almond extract could also enhance the flavor profile, making them even more delightful.
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).