Fattigman
Fattigman are traditional Scandinavian fried pastries with delicate sweetness and aromatic spices like cardamom, perfect for celebrations or a sweet treat with coffee.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat egg yolks, whites, salt, and sugar together for 30 minutes.
- Add cream and ground cardamom; stir well.
- Mix in melted butter, lemon extract, and brandy until well combined.
- Gradually add flour and mix thoroughly to form a stiff dough.
- Refrigerate the dough overnight.
- Roll small amounts of dough very thin.
- Cut into rectangles and shape into bows.
- Deep fry at 365°F (around 185°C) until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your dough is rolled as thin as possible to achieve a crispy texture. If you don't have brandy, rum or whiskey can be good substitutes. If you prefer a lighter flavor, you might use vanilla extract instead of lemon extract. Be careful not to overcrowd the frying pot to maintain the oil temperature.
Serving Suggestions
Fattigman is delightful when dusted with confectioners' sugar and served alongside coffee or tea. Consider pairing them with a light fruit salad or a scoop of ice cream for contrast. They also make a lovely addition to holiday dessert tables, alongside treats like German Kaiserschmarren (Egg Dish) or Christmas Confetti.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fattigman contains roughly 1662 calories, with 79g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 135g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (158% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (121% of the Daily Value), and iron (114% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 663mg per serving (29% 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 Fattigman in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight. This actually enhances the flavor and makes the dough easier to roll out. After frying, they can be stored as mentioned for a few days.
What type of oil is best for frying?
A neutral oil with a high smoke point is ideal for frying Fattigman. Vegetable oil or canola oil works well, while oils like olive oil can impart unwanted flavors. Make sure the oil is hot enough to prevent them from absorbing too much oil during frying.
Can I bake Fattigman instead of frying?
While frying gives Fattigman their signature texture, you can bake them as a healthier alternative. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake them on a parchment-lined sheet until golden brown, but they may not be as crispy as the fried version.
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).