What are Fastnachts?
At their most basic, fastnachts are a type of doughnut that’s traditionally made and enjoyed in the days leading up to Lent, the 40-day period of fasting and reflection observed by many Christian denominations. The word “fastnacht” itself comes from the German words “fast,” meaning “almost,” and “nacht,” meaning “night,” referring to the eve of the Lenten season.
Fastnachts are typically made from a rich, yeasted dough that’s cut into squares or rounds, fried until golden brown, and then dusted with powdered sugar or cinnamon-sugar. Some variations may include a small slit or hole in the center, while others are left solid. The result is a doughnut that’s crispy on the outside, fluffy and tender on the inside, and bursting with the warm, comforting flavors of butter, sugar, and spice.
The History and Significance of Fastnachts
The tradition of making and eating fastnachts dates back to the early 18th century, when German-speaking settlers first arrived in Pennsylvania. These industrious farmers and craftsmen, known collectively as the Pennsylvania Dutch (a corruption of “Deutsch,” meaning German), brought with them a rich culinary heritage that included a variety of sweet and savory treats.
Over time, the making and eating of fastnachts became a cherished tradition in Pennsylvania Dutch communities, with families and neighbors gathering together to mix, fry, and enjoy the doughnuts in a spirit of celebration and camaraderie. Today, Fastnacht Day (also known as Shrove Tuesday or Mardi Gras) is still observed with great enthusiasm in many parts of Pennsylvania, with bakeries, churches, and community organizations all getting in on the action.
How to Make Traditional Fastnachts
If you’re feeling inspired to try your hand at making fastnachts at home, here’s a traditional recipe to get you started:
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 packages active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 6 cups all-purpose flour
- Oil for frying
- Powdered sugar or cinnamon-sugar for dusting
Instructions
- In a saucepan, heat the milk, sugar, butter, and salt until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and let cool to lukewarm.
- In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Let stand for 5 minutes.
- Add the cooled milk mixture and beaten eggs to the yeast mixture. Stir in the flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
- Cover the dough and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Punch down the dough and roll out on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch thickness. Cut into squares or rounds, and let rise again for 30 minutes.
- Heat the oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 375°F. Fry the fastnachts in batches until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Drain the fastnachts on paper towels, then dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon-sugar while still warm.
Of course, this is just one variation on the classic fastnacht recipe – there are countless others out there, each with its own unique twist. Some recipes call for mashed potatoes or sour cream in the dough, while others incorporate spices like nutmeg or cardamom for extra flavor. The key is to find a recipe that speaks to your own tastes and traditions, and to have fun with the process of making and sharing these delightful treats.
Fastnacht Variations and Regional Specialties
While the basic formula for fastnachts remains fairly consistent across Pennsylvania Dutch Country, there are some notable regional variations and specialties that are worth seeking out. Here are a few examples:
Lancaster County Potato Fastnachts
In Lancaster County, one of the heartlands of Pennsylvania Dutch culture, it’s common to find fastnachts made with mashed potatoes in the dough. This addition yields a doughnut that’s especially tender and moist, with a slightly tangy flavor that sets it apart from other varieties.
Berks County Fastnachts
In Berks County, home to the city of Reading and a large Pennsylvania Dutch population, fastnachts are often made with a touch of nutmeg or other warming spices in the dough. This subtle spice note adds depth and complexity to the flavor of the doughnuts, making them a favorite among local aficionados.
Allentown Fastnachts
In the Allentown area, it’s not uncommon to find fastnachts that are square or rectangular in shape, rather than the more typical rounds or diamonds. These square fastnachts are often served with a dusting of granulated sugar rather than powdered, giving them a slightly crunchy texture on the outside.
No matter what shape or flavor profile you prefer, there’s no denying the enduring appeal of a well-made fastnacht. Whether you’re biting into a warm, sugar-dusted specimen straight from the fryer, or savoring a day-old doughnut with a cup of coffee, these humble treats have a way of satisfying both the belly and the soul.
Where to Find the Best Fastnachts in Pennsylvania
If you’re looking to sample some of the best fastnachts Pennsylvania has to offer, here are a few top spots to check out:
Haegele’s Bakery (Philadelphia)
This old-school German bakery in the heart of Philadelphia has been turning out top-notch fastnachts for over 80 years. Their version is made with a touch of nutmeg and cinnamon in the dough, and fried until perfectly golden brown.
- Address: 4164 Barnett St, Philadelphia, PA 19135
- Website: https://haegelesbakery.com/
Dietrich’s Meats & Country Store (Krumsville)
Don’t let the name fool you – this popular country store in the heart of Berks County is known for its incredible fastnachts as much as its meats and cheeses. Their version is made with a hint of mace in the dough, giving them a unique and addictive flavor.
- Address: 660 Krumsville Rd, Lenhartsville, PA 19534
- Website: https://dietrichsmeats.com/
Bird-in-Hand Bakery (Bird-in-Hand)
This charming bakery in the heart of Lancaster County’s Amish Country is a must-visit spot for fastnacht lovers. Their version is made with a touch of sour cream in the dough, yielding a doughnut that’s exceptionally tender and flavorful.
- Address: 2715 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505
- Website: https://bird-in-hand.com/
Fastnacht Bakery (Elizabethtown)
As the name suggests, this small-batch bakery in the quaint town of Elizabethtown specializes in all things fastnacht. From classic powdered sugar varieties to more creative flavors like maple bacon and salted caramel, there’s something here for every taste preference.
- Address: 18 E High St, Elizabethtown, PA 17022
- Website: https://www.fastnachtbakery.com/
Of course, these are just a few of the many wonderful places to find fastnachts in Pennsylvania. From big-city bakeries to small-town general stores, the Keystone State is brimming with opportunities to indulge in this beloved treat.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a lifelong Pennsylvanian or a curious visitor from out of state, there’s no denying the enduring appeal of the humble fastnacht. These sweet, pillowy doughnuts are more than just a tasty snack – they’re a symbol of the rich culinary heritage and warm community spirit that define Pennsylvania Dutch Country.
