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Bomboloni (Best Italian Donuts)

  • Author: ChefEmma
  • Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including rising time)
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours
  • Yield: 12 Bomboloni
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

Bomboloni are fluffy, Italian doughnuts filled with delicious custard or jam, lightly fried, and dusted with sugar. These pillowy treats are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a sweet snack to share with friends and family.


Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup whole milk, warm
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
  • 1/2 cup pastry cream or jam (such as raspberry or apricot)


Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until the dough begins to come together.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  4. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/2 inch thickness.
  5. Using a round cutter, cut out circles of dough (about 2-3 inches in diameter). Place the dough circles on a floured baking sheet and cover with a towel. Let them rise for another 30 minutes.
  6. While the doughnuts rise, heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  7. Fry the doughnuts in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  8. Once the doughnuts have cooled slightly, fill them with pastry cream or jam using a piping bag or small spoon. Be careful not to overfill them.
  9. Dust the filled doughnuts with powdered sugar and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • You can make the doughnuts ahead of time and store them for up to 1 day. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but they can be reheated slightly before serving.
  • If you prefer chocolate-filled Bomboloni, you can substitute the pastry cream with chocolate ganache.
  • Experiment with different jam flavors such as strawberry, blueberry, or lemon curd for variety.