The best cookies are made in collaboration, like these Lithuanian angel wings.
When I was looking at photos from my childhood again, I discovered a picture that showed a table full of sweet treats. It must have been made in Lithuania, with my grandmother. As tradition there would have it, a certain pastry cannot be missed in the run-up to Christmas: angel wings, Žagarėliai. The dough, which is formed into thin, twisted ribbons, deep-fried and sprinkled with powdered sugar, is a symbol of the connection to one’s homeland.
Preparing the crispy angel wings is a task for the whole family. Grandparents, parents and children gather in the kitchen to roll out the dough, cut out the shapes and twist them artfully. This takes some practice, but you’ll quickly get the hang of it.