Fastnachts German Style

Delight in the comforting indulgence of Fastnachts, a classic German-style doughnut recipe beloved for its soft, pillowy texture and golden perfection. Traditionally enjoyed on Shrove Tuesday, these yeast-raised doughnuts boast a rich, buttery flavor thanks to a blend of milk, eggs, and melted butter, while a touch of granulated sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness. With simple pantry staples like all-purpose flour and active dry yeast, this traditional treat requires a bit of patience for rising but rewards you with irresistibly fluffy results. Deep-fried to a golden crisp, Fastnachts can be served plain for an authentically rustic touch or dusted with powdered sugar for a hint of sweetness. Perfect for a special breakfast or dessert, these delightful doughnuts make a wonderful treat for festive gatherings or lazy weekend mornings.

Nutriscore Rating: 46/100

Prep Time:180 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:200 mins

Servings: 24

Ingredients

• 6 cups All-purpose flour
• 0.75 cup Granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 cup Milk
• 0.5 cup Butter
• 1 packet Active dry yeast
• 0.25 cup Warm water (around 110°F or 43°C)
• 3 pieces Large eggs
• 4 cups Shortening or oil (for frying)

Directions

Step 1

In a small bowl, dissolve the packet of active dry yeast in warm water (110°F or 43°C). Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, heat the milk and butter over low heat until the butter melts. Allow the mixture to cool to lukewarm.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix well.

Step 4

Whisk the eggs in a separate bowl. Add the lukewarm milk mixture, frothy yeast, and whisked eggs to the flour mixture. Stir until a sticky dough forms.

Step 5

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add small amounts of flour while kneading.

Step 6

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise for about 2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 7

Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter or a round cutter to shape the dough, making sure to cut out the center hole if you desire traditional doughnut shapes.

Step 8

Place the cut dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with a towel and let rise again for 30-40 minutes until puffy.

Step 9

Heat the shortening or oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 365°F (185°C). Test the temperature with a thermometer for accuracy.

Step 10

Fry the Fastnachts in small batches, 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the doughnuts and drain on paper towels.

Step 11

Optional: Dust the Fastnachts with powdered sugar or serve plain for a more traditional experience.

Step 12

Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2398.2 grams (2398.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	12773

Total Fat 1068.80g	1370%
Saturated Fat 439.40g	2197%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.00g
Cholesterol 843mg	281%
Sodium 3268mg	142%
Total Carbohydrate 717.00g	261%
Dietary Fiber 21.00g	75%
Total Sugars 164.10g
Protein 104.10g	208%

Vitamin D 245IU	1227%
Calcium 512mg	39%
Iron 38mg	209%
Potassium 1526mg	32%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 74.5%

Protein: 3.2%

Carbs: 22.2%