Delicious and Crispy Khrustyky: A Traditional Ukrainian Treat

Ingredients

3 large eggs
1 cup of granulated sugar
1 cup of heavy cream
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
4 cups of all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon of baking powder
1/2 teaspoon of salt
Zest of 1 lemon
Vegetable oil, for frying
Powdered sugar, for dusting

Steps and instructions

In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until smooth.
Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough starts to form.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it until it's smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes.
Roll the dough out to about 1/8 inch thickness.
Cut the dough into strips or shapes as desired.
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375 degrees F.
Fry the dough pieces in the hot oil until they are golden brown, about 1-2 minutes on each side.
Remove the fried dough with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Dust the Khrustyky with powdered sugar while they're still warm.
Serve and enjoy!

Tools for making

Large bowl - Used for mixing the ingredients together.
Whisk - Used for beating the eggs and sugar, and combining the wet ingredients.
Separate bowl - Used for whisking together the dry ingredients.
Rolling pin - Used for rolling out the dough to the desired thickness.
Knife or cookie cutters - Used for cutting the dough into strips or shapes.
Deep fryer or large pot - Used for frying the Khrustyky in hot oil.
Slotted spoon - Used for removing the fried dough from the oil.
Paper towels - Used for draining the excess oil from the fried dough.
Powdered sugar sifter - Used for dusting the Khrustyky with powdered sugar.

Recipe variations

Use a different type of flavored extract, such as almond or orange, instead of vanilla extract.
Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or cardamom to the dough for a spicy twist.
Replace the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
Experiment with gluten-free flour blends for a gluten-free version.
Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolatey variation.
Sprinkle the Khrustyky with cinnamon sugar instead of powdered sugar.
Fill the Khrustyky with a sweet filling, such as jam or Nutella, before frying them.
Add a tablespoon of rum or brandy to the dough for a boozy flavor.
Make savory Khrustyky by adding herbs and spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or dried dill to the dough.
Try using vegetable shortening instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.

Recipe overview

With roots in Eastern European cuisine, Khrustyky is a classic dessert that's light, crunchy, and beautifully simple. This deep-fried pastry, dusted with powdered sugar, delivers a deliciously sweet and delicate treat that melts in your mouth. The dough is enriched with eggs, heavy cream, and a hint of lemon zest, giving it a unique and enticing flavor profile. Although the process may seem a bit daunting for first-timers, it's truly worth the effort. The result is a delightful array of pastries that are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a holiday gathering or a casual afternoon tea. Expect to get your hands a little messy in the kitchen, but rest assured, the end product is a sweet reward!

Common questions

Can I use a different type of flour?
It is recommended to use all-purpose flour for this recipe as it provides the best texture and consistency. Using a different type of flour may alter the results.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with an equal amount of whole milk or half-and-half, but keep in mind that it may affect the richness and texture of the dough.
Can I skip the lemon zest?
Yes, you can omit the lemon zest if you prefer a plain flavor, but the lemon zest adds a delightful citrus aroma and taste to the Khrustyky.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
These are traditionally deep-fried for the best texture and taste. Baking may result in a different texture and may not achieve the same crispy exterior.
How should I store the Khrustyky?
Once cooled, store the Khrustyky in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for up to 1 week.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for mixing the ingredients.
Whisk - Used to beat the eggs and sugar together.
Baking Sheet - For rolling out the dough and cutting it into shapes.
Deep Fryer or Large Pot - To heat the vegetable oil for frying the dough.
Slotted Spoon - To remove the fried dough from the hot oil.
Paper Towels - For draining the fried dough and removing excess oil.
Sifter or Sieve - To dust the Khrustyky with powdered sugar.

Origin stories

Khrustyky, also known as Ukrainian Angel Wings, are a delightfully light and crispy dessert pastry with origins in Ukraine. They get their name from the fact that their delicate, thin layers resemble the wings of an angel. These pastries are traditionally made during the festive season of Christmas to symbolize the angels that heralded the birth of Christ. Each bite of Khrustyky carries with it centuries of Ukrainian tradition, a little piece of history served on a plate. This holiday season, when you are dusting your Khrustyky with powdered sugar, remember the angels they represent, and perhaps, the magic of Christmas will feel a little bit closer.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.

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