Portzelky New Years Cookies

Name: Portzelky New Years Cookies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 110 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup milk (room temperature); 2 eggs (beaten); 1/4 cup sugar; 1 cup raisins (plumped in hot water); 1 liter vegetable oil (for deep frying); icing sugar (for dusting)

110 min 24 cookies Medium

All Recipes

Celebrate with traditional Portzelky, sweet fritters enjoyed on New Year's.

Prep

30 min

Cook

20 min

Total

110 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Portzelky, also known as New Year's fritters, are a delightful treat enjoyed by Mennonite communities, especially during the New Year. These cookies are deep-fried dough balls, often filled with raisins, and are a sweet way to ring in the New Year. This version of Portzelky captures the traditional essence with a few modern tweaks for ease and consistency. The dough is enriched with eggs and milk, creating a tender, flavourful interior, while the golden-brown exterior offers a satisfying crunch. Perfect for those who appreciate cultural traditions and comforting flavours.

Instructions

Prepare the dough

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Mix wet ingredients

In another bowl, combine milk, beaten eggs, and sugar. Mix until sugar is dissolved.

Combine mixtures

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. Fold in the drained raisins.

Let dough rise

Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, until doubled in size.

Pro tip: Ensure dough is in a warm, draft-free area to rise properly.

Heat oil

In a deep saucepan or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 180°C (350°F).

Pro tip: Use a thermometer to maintain the correct oil temperature.

Fry Portzelky

Using two spoons, drop small balls of dough into the hot oil, frying in batches for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown.

Pro tip: Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking.

Drain and serve

Remove the cookies with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Dust with icing sugar before serving.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Ensure correct oil temperature for perfect frying.
Use fresh raisins for best flavour.
Allow dough to rise in a warm place.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Portzelky?

Portzelky are traditional Mennonite cookies, often served during New Year's celebrations. They are deep-fried dough balls, typically with raisins.

How many calories are in Portzelky?

Each Portzelky cookie contains approximately 120 calories.

Can I make Portzelky ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it. Allow it to come to room temperature before frying.

How should I store leftover Portzelky?

Store leftover Portzelky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They can also be frozen and reheated.

What is the best oil temperature for frying Portzelky?

The ideal oil temperature for frying Portzelky is 180°C (350°F).

Serving Suggestions

Serve Portzelky warm, dusted with icing sugar, alongside a cup of hot tea or coffee for a classic pairing. They are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days. For make-ahead convenience, prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it. Allow it to come to room temperature before frying. These cookies also freeze well; simply reheat them in the oven before serving.

Nutrition per serving

120

Calories

Protein

Fat

20g

Carbs

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