27 Mar 2025
Cook time 35 min
Prep time 250 min
Ingredients:
1 tsp yeast
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose white wheat flour
2 cups milk (1% fat)
2 tbsp lemon zest
1/3 cup butter
6 yolks
2 tsp vanilla extract
Bomboloni are delightful Italian filled doughnuts that are loved for their fluffy texture and delicious fillings. They are perfect for a sweet treat and can be enjoyed at any time of the day. The recipe involves a few simple ingredients and some basic steps to achieve these heavenly pastries.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
- In a small bowl, combine the yeast with a teaspoon of sugar and 2 tablespoons of lukewarm milk.
- Stir gently and let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose white wheat flour and the remaining sugar. Mix well to ensure they are thoroughly combined.
3. Heat the Milk:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the remaining milk until it is just hot to the touch (around 110°F or 45°C). Do not let it boil.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In the large mixing bowl with the flour and sugar, create a well in the center. Add the frothy yeast mixture, the warmed milk, the lemon zest, melted butter, egg yolks, and vanilla extract.
- Mix until all the ingredients are well combined and a dough begins to form. You may need to use your hands as the dough gets thicker.
5. Knead the Dough:
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Shape the Bomboloni:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air.
- Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a round cutter (about 2.5 to 3 inches in diameter) to cut out dough circles.
- Place the dough circles onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until they are puffy.
7. Fry the Bomboloni:
- In a deep fryer or large pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place a few bomboloni at a time into the hot oil, frying each side for about 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the bomboloni and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
8. Coat with Sugar:
- While the bomboloni are still warm, roll them in granulated sugar to coat them all over.
9. Serve:
- Enjoy your bomboloni warm, either plain or filled with pastry cream, jam, or Nutella, if desired.
Tips:
- Ensure your yeast is fresh and active to achieve a good rise in your dough.
- Using room temperature eggs and butter will help them incorporate more easily into the dough.
- Allow the dough to rest and rise properly; this is key to getting the fluffy and light texture that Bomboloni are known for.
- When filling your Bomboloni, consider using a piping bag for more precision and cleanliness.
- Experiment with different fillings such as Nutella, pastry cream, or fruit preserves to customize your Bomboloni.
Enjoy your homemade Bomboloni with a dusting of sugar or a drizzle of your favorite glaze. These Italian doughnuts are sure to impress your family and friends with their soft texture and flavorful filling. Happy cooking!