Berliners (German Doughnuts)
Berliners, those delightful German doughnuts, are a universally loved treat! These fluffy, filled pastries are perfectly sweet and make for a wonderful snack or dessert. Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, they promise to bring joy to any occasion.
Why make this recipe?
Making Berliners at home allows you to enjoy fresh, warm doughnuts filled with your favorite jam. It’s a fun activity that can be shared with family and friends, and they make a delightful addition to breakfast or dessert tables. Plus, nothing beats the satisfaction of creating these tasty treats from scratch! 🍩
How to prepare Berliners
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour 🍞
- 1/4 cup sugar 🍬
- 1/2 teaspoon salt 🧂
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast 🌾
- 1/2 cup warm milk 🥛
- 1/4 cup butter, melted 🧈
- 2 large eggs 🥚
- 1/2 cup jam (strawberry or raspberry) 🍓
- Oil for frying 🌊
- Sugar for dusting 🍭
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the melted butter, eggs, and the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place it in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface to 1/2 inch thick. Cut into circles (about 3 inches in diameter).
- Place a teaspoon of jam in the center of half of the circles. Top with the remaining circles, sealing the edges carefully.
- Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the doughnuts until golden brown on each side, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Dust with sugar while still warm.
How to serve Berliners
Serve your freshly made Berliners warm, dusted with sugar. They are perfect on their own or can be accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream or a cup of hot coffee or tea. ☕️
How to store Berliners
Berliners are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you wish to keep them longer, freeze them for up to 1 month. Just defrost them and warm them before serving. ❄️
Tips for preparing Berliners
- Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying; fry only a few at a time.
- Be careful with the temperature of the oil; if it’s too hot, the outside will burn while the inside remains raw.
- For a twist, try different flavors of jam or even custard fillings!
Variations
You can experiment with various fillings such as chocolate cream, custard, or even fresh fruits! For a festive touch, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
FAQs
1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast. Just mix it directly with the flour and proceed with the recipe.
2. What is the best way to tell when the oil is ready for frying?
You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough in; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready!
3. How can I prevent the filling from leaking out during frying?
Make sure to seal the edges well after filling, and don’t overfill the doughnuts.
Enjoy your homemade Berliners! 🎉