If there’s one dessert that brings joy, tradition, and a sprinkle of magic to Hungarian celebrations, it’s Farsangi Fánk! These light, golden, pillowy doughnuts are a beloved treat during Farsang (Hungarian Carnival season), celebrated between Epiphany and Ash Wednesday.
Soft, fluffy, and slightly crispy on the outside, these doughnuts are not overly sweet, making them perfect for filling with jam, dusting with powdered sugar, or dipping in chocolate! 😍
Let’s dive into this authentic Hungarian recipe so you can enjoy these festive delights at home! 🎭✨
📝 Ingredients (Makes About 15-20 Doughnuts)
For the Dough:
✔ 4 cups all-purpose flour 🍞 ✔ 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast 🧡 ✔ ¾ cup warm milk 🥛 ✔ 3 tbsp sugar 🍚 ✔ 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted 🧈 ✔ 2 large egg yolks 🥚 ✔ 1 tbsp rum (optional, but enhances flavor & fluffiness!) 🍹 ✔ 1 pinch salt 🧂 ✔ Zest of 1 lemon 🍋 (for a fragrant touch)
For Frying & Topping:
✔ Vegetable oil (for frying, about 3 cups) 🌻 ✔ Powdered sugar, for dusting 🍚 ✔ Apricot jam, strawberry jam, or Nutella (for filling or dipping!) 🍑🍓🍫
👩🍳 How to Make Farsangi Fánk (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
1️⃣ In a small bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
Step 2: Make the Dough
2️⃣ In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and lemon zest. 3️⃣ Add the yeast mixture, egg yolks, melted butter, and rum. 4️⃣ Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it’s soft and elastic. (You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook for easier kneading!) 5️⃣ Cover with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Shape the Doughnuts
6️⃣ Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to ½-inch thickness. 7️⃣ Cut out circles using a 2-3 inch round cutter or a glass. 8️⃣ Cover and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes.
