Angel wings

Angel Wings

A plate of freshly made Angel Wings dusted with powdered sugar
Alternative names	Chrusciki, Faworki, Bugie, Cenci
Type	Pastry
Place of origin	Various European countries
Region or state	Europe and America
Main ingredients	Flour, water, egg yolk, confectioners' sugar, rectified spirit or rum, vanilla, salt
Food energy (per 100 g serving)	Varies kcal
Cookbook: Angel Wings   Media: Angel Wings

Introduction

Angel wings are a traditional sweet pastry made from dough that is shaped into thin twisted ribbons, deep-fried, and then sprinkled with powdered sugar. Renowned for their crisp texture and delicate sweetness, angel wings are celebrated in many European cuisines and have been introduced to other regions, including American cuisine, by immigrant populations.

Cultural Significance

Angel wings hold a prominent place in the culinary traditions leading up to Lent. They are particularly associated with the pre-Lenten celebrations of Carnival and are a staple during Fat Thursday, the last Thursday before Lent. This tradition is distinct from "Fat Tuesday" (Mardi Gras), which marks the day before the onset of Lent on Ash Wednesday. In some cultures, there is a unique tradition where husbands gift angel wings to their wives on Friday the 13th as a charm against bad luck.

Ingredients

The dough for angel wings is typically made with a mix of flour, water, egg yolk, confectioners' (sugar), rectified spirit or rum, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. The use of alcohol in the dough is crucial as it evaporates quickly during frying, resulting in the pastry's signature light and airy texture.

Health Considerations

While angel wings are a delightful treat, their nutritional content should be considered, especially in the context of a balanced diet and healthcare. The deep-frying process and the use of confectioners' sugar contribute to the caloric content of the pastry. Moderation is advised when consuming this sweet, especially for individuals monitoring their sugar intake or those with specific dietary restrictions.

Culinary Variations

Though the basic recipe for angel wings is relatively uniform, slight variations exist between countries and regions, reflecting local tastes and preferences. Some versions may incorporate flavors such as lemon zest, orange zest, or different types of alcohol to adjust the flavor profile.

See Also

• List of pastries
• Carnival
• Lent