Bowtie and cupcakes ()
Rose Monday, the biggest day on Germany’s calendar, falls on Feb. 20, 2023. You may have noticed the proliferation of a certain sweet treat associated with this time of year.
"Krapfen," "Kreppel," "Berliner" or "Pfaffenkuchen" are among the regional variations of the names you’ll hear for this tasty pastry, a filled doughnut topped with powdered or granular sugar. Although they’re available year-round, in the weeks before carnival they take pride of place in many a bakery shop’s window.
Krapfen filled with pastry cream
Various fillings complete the Kreppel. In addition to the ever-popular jelly versions, various creams, including chocolate or hazelnut, custard or even egg liqueur can find their way into the doughnut’s center. As for types of jellies, raspberry, red currant, apricot and rosehip are just some of the choices. Some jokesters enjoy filling the odd doughnut with mustard and watching the reaction as an unsuspecting friend or work colleague bites into it.
The doughnut’s height of popularity in the run-up to carnival harks back to times when the dietary restrictions associated with Lent were strictly adhered to and things like eggs and butter were off the menu. Eating such treats was a good way to live a little beforehand and use up supplies.
So next time you’re passing by your favorite bakery, drop in and treat yourself to this yeasty dough ball of great goodness. Just tell yourself it’s all part of your cultural assimilation.
