Introduction
Welcome to the delightful world of Italian pastries! Today, we are diving into the deliciousness of bomboloni—light, fluffy, and filled with rich pastry cream. These little doughnut-like treats are the perfect way to brighten your day, whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee in the morning or as a sweet afternoon indulgence. Imagine biting into a warm bombolone, the sugary exterior giving way to a creamy, luscious filling. Let’s bring a taste of Italy into your kitchen with this easy-to-follow recipe!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup pastry cream (or custard) for filling
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes (including rising time)
Yield: 12 bomboloni
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warmed milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and allow it to sit for about 5 to 10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt until well combined.
- Once the yeast mixture is ready, add in the eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until fully combined.
- Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough begins to form.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8 to 10 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness.
- Using a cookie cutter or a glass, cut out circles from the rolled dough and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let them rise for another 30 to 45 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the bomboloni in batches, turning occasionally until they are golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes per side.
- Remove the bomboloni from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Once they are cool enough to handle, use a pastry bag to fill each bombolone with creamy pastry filling. Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes or Tips
- For the filling, you can use store-bought pastry cream or make your own for an extra touch of love.
- Ensure the oil is at the right temperature for frying; too hot can burn them, while too cool will make them greasy.
- These bomboloni can be enjoyed fresh or stored in an airtight container for a day or two. Rewarm briefly before serving for the best taste!
Cooking Techniques
Mastering the art of frying is key to achieving perfectly soft and fluffy bomboloni. Always check the oil temperature with a thermometer or by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil; it should sizzle immediately. Kneading the dough well helps create that tender texture, while allowing it to rise properly is crucial for that lightness we love.
FAQ
- Can I use a different filling? Absolutely! Jam, chocolate, or a simple whipped cream can be great alternatives to pastry cream.
- What if I don’t have active dry yeast? You can substitute it with instant yeast, but there’s no need to proof it in warm milk; just mix it with your dry ingredients.
- How do I store leftover bomboloni? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed fresh, but they will stay good for a couple of days.
Conclusion
Making homemade bomboloni might seem like a bit of an adventure, but trust me, the payoff is extraordinary. These light, fluffy doughnuts filled with sweet custard are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether it’s a special gathering or a casual treat, these little bursts of joy will bring smiles all around. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s create some magical moments in the kitchen!