Indulge in a delightful treat that perfectly blends tradition with modern convenience. Fastnachts, a classic German pastry, are pillowy-soft and delicately sweet, making them a perfect addition to your morning routine or an afternoon pick-me-up. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to recreate these delicious pastries in the comfort of your own kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked Fastnachts.
**Fastnachts**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm milk
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. In a separate large bowl, combine the sugar, flour, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, eggs, and melted butter.
3. Mix the ingredients together until a soft dough forms.
4. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
6. Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down and roll it out to about ½ inch thickness.
7. Using a sharp knife or a pastry cutter, cut the dough into squares or rectangles. You can also use a round cutter for traditional round Fastnachts.
8. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C).
9. Carefully add the dough pieces to the hot oil, frying in batches until golden brown on both sides, about 1-2 minutes per side.
10. Remove the Fastnachts with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
11. Dust the warm Fastnachts generously with powdered sugar before serving.
12. Enjoy your homemade Fastnachts with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a truly indulgent treat.
Fastnachts are best enjoyed fresh and warm, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container once completely cooled. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave for a few seconds to revive their fluffy texture. Whether you savor them as a breakfast indulgence or a well-deserved afternoon snack, these homemade Fastnachts are sure to bring joy to your day. Embrace the cozy charm of homemade baking and treat yourself to these delightful pastries whenever you’re craving a touch of sweetness and comfort.
