Grandma Lyla'S Norwegian Fattigmand
Grandma Lyla's Norwegian Fattigmand are delicate, sweet fried pastries flavored with cardamom and brandy, perfect for festive occasions and loved by those with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the eggs, additional egg yolks, powdered sugar, cream or condensed milk, and cardamom in order as written.
- Prepare the batter the evening before and let it rest overnight.
- Fasten a clean cloth to the rolling board and sprinkle it with flour.
- Roll out the batter thinly on the floured cloth.
- Cut out diamond-shaped pieces from the rolled batter.
- Make a slit in the center of each piece and draw one corner through, forming a knot.
- Deep fry in fat at 370°F (185°C) for 2 to 3 minutes or until golden brown.
- Dust the fried fattigmand with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure to beat the eggs well until frothy before mixing with the other ingredients. If you don't have cardamom, cinnamon can be a suitable substitute. Use a neutral oil for frying, such as vegetable or canola oil, to avoid overpowering the flavor of the fattigmand. Ensure the dough is rolled thinly for a crispier result.
Serving Suggestions
Serve fattigmand dusted with powdered sugar for a delightful treat. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them perfect for afternoon snacks. Consider serving alongside Avocado Canapes for a diverse spread at gatherings or holiday celebrations.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fattigmand in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Lyla'S Norwegian Fattigmand contains roughly 419 calories, with 6g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value), iron (10% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% 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 batter ahead of time?
Yes, it's recommended to prepare the batter the evening before and let it rest in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and improves the texture, making the frying process easier the next day.
What can I use instead of brandy?
If you prefer not to use alcohol, apple juice or a mix of water and vanilla extract can serve as good substitutes for brandy in this recipe. They will still provide moisture and a hint of flavor without the alcohol content.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
While frying yields the traditional texture and flavor, you can bake them at 350°F (175°C) on a lined baking sheet for about 10-12 minutes. They won't be as crispy but will still be enjoyable. Brush with melted butter before baking for added richness.
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).