Munkki

Munkki, translated as monks, are popular Finnish deep-fried doughnuts made with buttery, cardamom-flavored, leavened dough. They are usually shaped into round forms that are occasionally complemented with sweet and fruity fillings, or in the shape of thick rings rolled in fine sugar. Numerous theories surround the origin of their name, from the idea that the round shape resembles the traditional hairstyle or the brown attire of the monks, to the claim that the monks originally prepared these deep-fried delicacies during Lent. Today, munkki are traditionally associated with May Day; the national festivity celebrated on May 1st.