Bombolini

Ingredients:

For the Doughnuts:

1. All-purpose flour (3 cups)
2. Active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
3. Granulated sugar (1/2 cup)
4. Whole milk (1 cup, warmed)
5. Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, melted)
6. Egg yolks (3)
7. Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
8. Vegetable oil (for frying)

For Filling and Coating:

1. Fruit jam or pastry cream (for filling)
2. Powdered sugar (for coating)

Instructions:

1. Activate Yeast:
   • In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Prepare Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg yolks. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead Dough:
   • Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise:
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
5. Shape Doughnuts:
   • Punch down the risen dough and roll it out to about 1/2 inch thickness. Using a round cutter, cut out doughnut shapes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes.
6. Fry Doughnuts:
   • Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the doughnuts until golden brown on both sides. Ensure they cook through but don't become too dark.
7. Drain and Cool:
   • Remove the fried doughnuts and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil. Allow them to cool slightly.
8. Fill Doughnuts:
   • Once cooled, use a piping bag to fill the doughnuts with your choice of fruit jam or pastry cream.
9. Coat with Powdered Sugar:
   • Roll the filled doughnuts in powdered sugar until evenly coated.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Bomboloni are best enjoyed fresh. Serve them immediately and savor the delightful combination of soft dough, sweet filling, and a dusting of powdered sugar.

Tips:

• Experiment with various fillings such as chocolate ganache, lemon curd, or hazelnut spread.
• Adjust the size of the doughnuts based on your preference.