Regional > Pennsylvania Dutch > Fasnacht Doughnuts

Peanut Butter and Jelly Fasnacht Doughnuts Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed
- 1 egg, room temperature
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup strawberry jelly
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar, for dusting

Special equipment needed:
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
- Candy thermometer
- Pastry bag with a round tip

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and granulated sugar. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the warmed milk and egg. Add this to the flour mixture and stir until a dough forms.

3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

4. Roll out the dough to 1/2 inch thickness and cut out circles using a biscuit cutter or a drinking glass.

5. In a small bowl, mix together the peanut butter and jelly until well combined. Spoon this mixture into a pastry bag with a round tip.

6. Pipe the peanut butter and jelly mixture onto half of the dough circles, leaving a 1/4 inch border around the edge.

7. Place the remaining dough circles on top of the peanut butter and jelly circles and press the edges together to seal.

8. Heat the deep fryer or pot of oil to 350°F. Fry the doughnuts in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

9. Remove the doughnuts from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

10. Dust the doughnuts with powdered sugar and serve warm.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
Oil temperature: 350°F
Serving size:
Makes 12 doughnuts

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 240
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 60mg
Sugar: 13g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
- Almond butter or sunflower seed butter can be used instead of peanut butter.
- Any flavor of jelly or jam can be used instead of strawberry jelly.

Variations:
- Add chopped peanuts or almonds to the dough for extra crunch.
- Use Nutella instead of peanut butter for a chocolatey twist.
- Top the doughnuts with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel sauce.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying the doughnuts to ensure they cook evenly.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the doughnuts from the oil to avoid burning yourself.
- Pipe the peanut butter and jelly mixture onto the dough circles in a spiral motion for a more even distribution.

Storage instructions:
Store the doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat the doughnuts in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the doughnuts on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar and a dollop of whipped cream on top.

Garnishes:
Top the doughnuts with chopped peanuts or almonds for extra crunch.

Pairings:
Serve the doughnuts with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee.

Suggested side dishes:
Serve the doughnuts with a side of fresh fruit or a small salad for a balanced meal.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour until it becomes easier to handle.
- If the doughnuts are too greasy, try frying them for a shorter amount of time or at a lower temperature.

Food safety advice:
- Use caution when working with hot oil to avoid burns.
- Make sure the doughnuts are cooked all the way through before serving.

Food history:
Fasnacht doughnuts are a traditional Pennsylvania Dutch treat typically eaten on Shrove Tuesday, the day before the start of Lent. They are made with simple ingredients and fried until golden brown.

Flavor profiles:
The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet strawberry jelly creates a classic flavor pairing that is both nostalgic and delicious.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the doughnuts as a dessert or a sweet snack any time of day.

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Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Savory, Creamy, Rich