Bomboloni

Bomboloni – Fluffy Doughnuts for Breakfast

When it comes to delicious and comforting breakfasts, bomboloni are at the top of many people's preferences. These doughnuts, filled with pastry cream or jam, are not just a culinary pleasure but also a tradition that brings joy and nostalgia. They are typically served at breakfast but can also be enjoyed at other times of the day. Additionally, they are often made around carnival time and are therefore also known as 'sweet di carnevale'. This recipe will guide you step by step in creating these fluffy treats, with a hint of flavor and a sprinkle of magic.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 2 hours
Frying time: 2 x 1 minute
Total time: approximately 3 hours
Number of servings: 12 bomboloni

Necessary ingredients:
- 300 g of flour 00
- 125 g of lukewarm milk
- 7 g (one packet) of dry yeast
- 1 egg
- 50 g of sugar
- 30 g of butter
- Lemon flavor (optional)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- A pinch of salt
- Granulated sugar for decoration
- Peanut oil (or sunflower oil) for frying

Brief history:
Bomboloni have their origins in festive culinary traditions, being popular treats during carnival. They are a variation of doughnuts but with a larger size and a distinct ring shape. In the past, they were made for celebrations and festivities, but today they are cooked and enjoyed every day, symbolizing comfort and culinary satisfaction.

Step by step in making bomboloni:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature, except for the milk, which should be lukewarm. It is essential for the yeast to have a warm environment to activate fermentation.

2. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, mix the dry yeast with the lukewarm milk and a teaspoon of sugar. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial to ensure that the yeast is active and ready to make the dough rise.

3. Mixing the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, salt, vanilla sugar, and lemon flavor. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.

4. Adding the wet ingredients: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the egg, the activated yeast mixture, and the melted butter. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to combine all the ingredients until you obtain a soft dough.

5. Kneading the dough: Transfer the dough to a floured work surface and knead for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour.

6. First rising: Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

7. Shaping the bomboloni: Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface to a thickness of about 0.5 cm. Use a round cutter to cut out dough circles. Place the circles on a piece of parchment paper sprinkled with flour, leaving a little space between them. Cover them again and let them rise for 45 minutes.

8. Frying the bomboloni: Heat the oil in a deep skillet or pot, ensuring the temperature does not exceed 180°C. Fry the bomboloni, 2-3 at a time, for about 1 minute on each side until golden. Make sure not to fry too many at once to avoid cooling the oil.

9. Finishing: Remove them onto kitchen paper to absorb excess oil. Once they have cooled slightly, roll them in granulated sugar to give them a sweet and appealing texture.

10. Filling the bomboloni: Using a piping bag with a thin tip, fill the bomboloni with your favorite jam or pastry cream. If desired, you can also sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top for an even more appetizing look.

Practical tips:
- Ensure the yeast is fresh; check the expiration date to avoid insufficient fermentation.
- If you don't have lemon flavor, you can use a teaspoon of grated lemon zest for a fresher taste.
- Experiment with different fillings: Nutella, fruit jam, or even a combination of creams to add a touch of originality.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
One serving of bomboloni (one doughnut) has approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the filling and frying method. These doughnuts contain carbohydrates, protein from the egg, and fats from the butter, providing a quick source of energy. Moderate consumption can be part of a balanced diet, but it is good to enjoy them in moderation, especially if you are mindful of caloric intake.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour? Whole wheat flour can change the texture of the bomboloni, making them denser, but it is a healthier option.
- How can I store bomboloni? They are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For a longer duration, you can freeze them without filling.

Serving suggestions:
Bomboloni are delicious served alongside a freshly brewed cup of coffee or with a fragrant tea. You can also pair them with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce for a decadent dessert.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to gather the ingredients and enjoy the creative cooking process. Bomboloni are perfect for sharing with family or friends, bringing a smile to everyone's face. Enjoy!