Long Johns
Long Johns are delicious, sweet yeast-raised pastries with a light, fluffy interior and golden crust, perfect for breakfast or treats, enjoyed by all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Work the dough like bread dough and let it rise until doubled in size.
- Roll out the dough and cut into strips.
- Let the strips rise again until puffed up.
- Bake until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your lard is fully melted and not too hot when mixed with other ingredients. If you don't have lard, vegetable shortening or butter can be used as substitutes. For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the dough. To achieve a lighter texture, incorporate more air while kneading.
Serving Suggestions
Long Johns are delightful when served warm, sprinkled with powdered sugar or drizzled with icing. Pair them with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a comforting treat. They also make a great addition to a brunch spread alongside options like Cinnamon-Almond Sweet Rolls or a fresh fruit platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Long Johns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them for up to a month. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until warmed through, ensuring they retain their soft texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Long Johns contains roughly 1826 calories, with 28g protein, 233g carbohydrates, and 87g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (77% of the Daily Value), protein (57% of the Daily Value), and potassium (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1978mg per serving (86% 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 active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. Use the same amount, but there's no need to proof it in water; simply add it directly to your dry ingredients for a quicker rise.
How can I tell when the dough has risen enough?
The dough is ready when it has doubled in size and feels airy to the touch. You can gently poke it; if it springs back slowly, it's risen enough. If it doesn't spring back, it's over-proofed.
Can I make these Long Johns ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time, let it rise, and then refrigerate it overnight. Just allow it to come to room temperature before rolling and cutting, ensuring they stay fluffy and delicious.
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).