Soft, Pillowy Italian Donuts

Introduction

When I first encountered the delightful world of Italian pastries, I stumbled upon a recipe for bombolini—soft, pillowy donuts filled with cream or jam and dusted with powdered sugar. Intrigued, I decided to give it a try, hoping to recreate the magic I experienced at a local Italian bakery. The result? A resounding success! My family adored these treats, eagerly devouring them within minutes. Each bite was a little piece of heaven, making this recipe a staple in our home. Here’s how you can create these heavenly donuts too!

Ingredients

• All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups (240 g)
• Yeast: 1 packet (7 g)
• Milk: 1/2 cup (120 ml), warm
• Sugar: 1/4 cup (50 g)
• Butter: 1/4 cup (55 g), melted
• Eggs: 2 large
• Salt: a pinch
• Powdered Sugar: for dusting
• Filling: Pastry cream or jam of choice

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast:

• In a bowl, mix warm milk with yeast and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

1. Mix the Dough:

• Add flour, melted butter, eggs, and a pinch of salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until combined.

1. Knead the Dough:

• Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead until smooth, about 5-10 minutes.

1. First Rise:

• Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

1. Shape the Donuts:

• Roll the dough out to about 1/2 inch thick and cut out rounds using a cookie cutter.

1. Second Rise:

• Place the rounds on a floured surface, cover them again, and let rise for an additional 15 minutes.

1. Fry the Bombolini:

• Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the bombolini until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.

1. Drain and Fill:

• Remove the donuts from the oil and drain on paper towels. Once cooled slightly, fill each donut with cream or jam and dust generously with powdered sugar.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: Approximately 12 donuts
• Calories per Serving: About 180 calories (varies depending on filling)

Preparation Time

• Total Time: About 2 hours (including rising time)
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm for the best taste.
• Dust generously with powdered sugar just before serving.
• Pair with coffee or tea for a delightful treat.
• Offer various fillings like pastry cream, chocolate ganache, or fruit jams.
• Create a donut bar with multiple fillings and toppings for parties!

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising.
2. Temperature Matters: Keep the milk warm (not hot) to activate the yeast effectively.
3. Knead Well: Proper kneading helps develop the gluten for a fluffy texture.
4. Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
5. Experiment with Fillings: Try different flavors of jam or even Nutella for variety!

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Bombolini: Fill with chocolate ganache instead of cream or jam.
• Lemon Curd Filling: For a zesty twist, use lemon curd as a filling.
• Savory Version: Stuff with ricotta and herbs for a savory donut experience.
• Baked Version: For a healthier option, bake instead of fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes.
• Mini Bombolini: Make smaller versions for bite-sized treats.

Serving Suggestions

• Breakfast Treat: Serve bombolini as a special breakfast item.
• Dessert Option: Pair with ice cream or fresh fruit for dessert.
• Festive Gatherings: Perfect for parties, holidays, or family gatherings.
• Gift Idea: Package them in a box for a sweet homemade gift.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep bombolini in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unfilled donuts in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes for freshness.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

• Yes, but the texture may be denser.

1. What can I substitute for milk?

• Almond milk or soy milk can be used as alternatives.

1. How do I know when the oil is hot enough?

• Use a kitchen thermometer or drop a small piece of dough into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.

1. Can I make the dough in advance?

• Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight for convenience.

1. Is it possible to fill them before frying?

• It’s best to fill them after frying to prevent the filling from leaking out.

1. What other fillings can I use?

• Any fruit preserves, pastry cream, or even savory fillings work well.

1. Can I make them gluten-free?

• Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend, adjusting the liquid as necessary.

1. Why are my donuts dense?

• This may be due to over-kneading or using old yeast.

1. How long do they take to rise?

• The first rise takes about 1 hour, and the second rise takes about 15 minutes.

1. Can I bake them instead of frying?
   • Yes, you can bake them for a healthier option; just keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Conclusion

These soft, pillowy Italian donuts, or bombolini, are a delightful treat that can bring a taste of Italy right into your home. With their creamy or jam-filled centers and a light dusting of powdered sugar, they’re sure to please any crowd. Whether you serve them for breakfast, dessert, or a special occasion, this recipe will undoubtedly become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare for a delicious experience that’s worth every bite!

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