Kroštule - Traditional Croatian Sweet Pastry

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons brandy 2 tablespoons brandy
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 8g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
2. 2.
   Make a well in the center and add the eggs and brandy.
3. 3.
   Gradually incorporate the flour into the wet ingredients until a smooth dough forms.
4. 4.
   Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for a few minutes until elastic.
5. 5.
   Divide the dough into smaller portions and roll each portion into a thin sheet.
6. 6.
   Cut the dough into strips, approximately 1 inch wide and 6 inches long.
7. 7.
   Take each strip and twist it into an intricate shape, such as a knot or a spiral.
8. 8.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 180°C (350°F).
9. 9.
   Carefully place a few twisted pastries into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides.
10. 10.
    Remove the fried Kroštule from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
11. 11.
    Repeat the frying process with the remaining pastries.
12. 12.
    Once cooled, dust the Kroštule generously with powdered sugar.
13. 13.
    Serve and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Brandy — The brandy adds a unique flavor to the Kroštule. If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute it with orange juice or vanilla extract for a different twist.

Tips & Tricks

• Make sure the oil is at the right temperature before frying the Kroštule to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.
• Dust the Kroštule with powdered sugar just before serving to maintain their freshness and enhance their appearance.
• Experiment with different shapes and sizes when twisting the dough to create your own unique variations of Kroštule.
• Serve Kroštule alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful pairing.
• Store any leftover Kroštule in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness.

Serving advice

Serve Kroštule as a sweet treat during festive occasions or as a delightful snack with a cup of coffee or tea. They are best enjoyed fresh and warm, but can also be stored in an airtight container for a day or two.

Presentation advice

Arrange the twisted Kroštule on a platter and dust them generously with powdered sugar. You can also add a sprig of fresh mint or a few berries as a garnish to enhance their visual appeal.