Berlin balls ;)

Berlin Balls: The Delight That Will Enchant Your Taste Buds

Who hasn't dreamed of a fluffy donut filled with a fine, sweet cream that melts in your mouth? Berlin Balls, also known as filled donuts, are desserts that have captured the hearts of many and will make you feel like a true pastry chef in your own kitchen. This delicious, easy-to-make recipe will provide you with an unforgettable culinary experience. Let's see together how you can bring this treat to your table!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12 donuts

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 250 g self-raising flour (or 250 g plain flour + 1 teaspoon baking powder)
- 80 g sugar
- 4 eggs (separate the yolks from the whites)
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 5 tablespoons milk
- 1 packet vanilla sugar

For the filling:
- 2 yolks
- 50 g sugar
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 200 ml hot milk

For decoration:
- Powdered sugar (optional)

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the dough
In a large bowl, add the flour and sugar. Mix the dry ingredients well to combine evenly. In another bowl, beat the four yolks together with the oil and milk. When the mixture is homogeneous, add it to the flour mixture. Mix everything until you obtain a smooth paste.

Step 2: Beat the egg whites
In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until they form a stiff foam. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy dough. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the dough mixture, incorporating them carefully. Use a spatula and mix from the bottom up to avoid losing air from the egg whites.

Step 3: Chill the dough
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough chill in the fridge for an hour. This step will help firm up the dough and make the frying process easier.

Step 4: Prepare the cream
In a saucepan, place the milk over medium heat and let it reach boiling point. In another bowl, mix the two yolks with the sugar and flour until you obtain a smooth paste. When the milk starts to boil, pour the yolk mixture into the saucepan, stirring vigorously to prevent lumps from forming. Continue stirring until the cream thickens, then set aside and let it cool.

Step 5: Fry the donuts
In a deep pan, pour plenty of oil for frying and heat it to medium temperature. Use a spoon to scoop portions of dough, which you will introduce into the hot oil. Fry the donuts on both sides until they become golden and fluffy, then remove them onto paper towels to absorb the excess oil.

Step 6: Fill the donuts
Once the donuts have completely cooled, carefully cut them in half. Use a spoon or a piping bag to fill each piece with the prepared cream. If desired, you can sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a festive look.

Helpful tips:
- Make sure the oil is well heated before frying the donuts. If the oil is not hot enough, the donuts will absorb too much oil and will not be fluffy.
- You can add flavors to the filling cream, such as vanilla essence or lemon zest for an extra touch of flavor.
- If you want to experiment, try filling the donuts with jam, chocolate, or cream cheese.

Possible variations:
- You can turn this Berlin Balls recipe into a savory version by adding cheese or ham instead of sweet cream.
- Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a unique flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
These donuts, although delicious, are an indulgent dessert. Each serving has a moderate calorie content, with about 200 calories per donut, depending on the filling. However, with a rich content of eggs, these donuts can provide a source of protein.

Personal notes:
I remember the first time I tasted Berlin Balls on a chilly winter morning. Their sweet aroma and fluffy texture made me fall in love instantly. Since then, I have tried to make them at home, always adapting the recipe to make it more personal. Each attempt has been a culinary adventure that has taught me more about patience and creativity in the kitchen.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of flour?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour or whole wheat flour, but the texture will vary.
2. How can I store the donuts?
The donuts can be stored in the fridge in a closed container, but it's best to consume them fresh.
3. Can I freeze the donuts?
Yes, you can freeze them, but it's better to fill and decorate them after thawing to maintain the texture.

Pair Berlin Balls with a cup of coffee or a fragrant tea and enjoy a complete culinary experience. These donuts are perfect for a relaxing Sunday or to impress guests at a party. By experimenting with fillings and flavors, you can turn each serving into a personal masterpiece. Bon appétit!