Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (one packet)
- ½ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 2 large eggs
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for extra flavor)
For Frying & Coating:
- 3 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (for coating)
For the Filling (Choose One or More!):
- 1 cup pastry cream (classic choice)
- 1 cup Nutella
- 1 cup fruit jam (strawberry, raspberry, or apricot)
- 1 cup vanilla custard
Instructions
In a small bowl, combine warm milk, 1 tbsp sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir lightly and let sit for 5-10 minutes, until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast might be expired—try again with fresh yeast.
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the eggs, softened butter, vanilla extract, lemon zest (if using), and the activated yeast mixture. Mix until the dough starts to come together.
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed for 5-6 minutes. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out to about ½ inch thickness. Using a round cutter (about 3 inches wide), cut out circles and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let them rise again for 30-40 minutes until puffy.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the bomboloni in small batches, about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
While still warm, roll each bombolone in granulated sugar to give it that classic, sweet coating.
Use a piping bag with a long, narrow tip to inject pastry cream, Nutella, or jam into the center of each bombolone. Serve immediately and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Rising Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 8g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g