Bomboloni – Italian Doughnuts

Soft and light Italian Bomboloni – Italian Doughnuts are an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion. These doughnuts are fluffy, rolled in sugar, and filled with creamy pastry cream (crema pasticciera), offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply craving something sweet, these Bomboloni will impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginners can create these delicious doughnuts.
• Versatile Filling Options: Customize the filling to your liking; try different creams or jams for a unique twist!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve them at parties, brunches, or as a sweet treat after dinner—Bomboloni fit any setting!
• Deliciously Fluffy: The combination of strong bread flour and 00 flour gives these doughnuts their signature soft texture.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves doughnuts! These Bomboloni are sure to be the star of any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Doughnut cutter or round cookie cutters
• Frying pan or deep fryer
• Thermometer (for oil temperature)
• Mixing spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl: A stand mixer helps efficiently knead the dough without much effort. If using a bowl, be prepared for some arm workout!
• Frying pan or deep fryer: A deep fryer ensures even cooking temperature while frying Bomboloni, resulting in perfectly golden doughnuts.
• Thermometer: Monitoring the oil temperature is crucial. Too hot can burn the outsides while leaving insides raw; too low results in greasy doughnuts.

Ingredients

To make delightful Bomboloni – Italian Doughnuts, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 cups strong bread flour (280g) see notes
• 2 cups 00 flour or all-purpose flour (280g) see notes
• 3 large eggs (at room temperature)
• 6.5 tbsp butter (softened) (90g)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
• 1/2 cup lukewarm milk (120ml)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla paste (or 1 tsp vanilla extract)
• 2 1/4 tsp fast action yeast (7g)
• 1 small pinch of salt
• 2-3 tbsp caster sugar or confectioners sugar (for rolling doughnuts in)
• Sunflower or vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Pastry Cream:

• 5 egg yolks
• 2.5 cups milk (½ litre)
• ¼ cup cornstarch (30g)
• ⅓ cup sugar (70g)
• ½ tsp vanilla paste or 1 vanilla bean
• Zest of 1 lemon

How to Make Bomboloni – Italian Doughnuts

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine both flours, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
3. Beat eggs with lukewarm milk and vanilla paste in a separate bowl.
4. Gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients while mixing until a smooth dough forms.

Step 2: Let it Rise

1. Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl.
2. Cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel.
3. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 90 minutes or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape the Bomboloni

1. Once risen, punch down the dough and turn it onto a floured surface.
2. Roll out the dough to about ½ inch thick.
3. Use a round cutter to cut out circles of dough.
4. Place them on parchment paper lined trays and cover with a cloth; let them rise again for about 30 minutes.

Step 4: Frying Time!

1. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C).
2. Carefully drop in the risen doughnut rounds, frying until golden brown on each side—about 2–3 minutes per side.
3. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Fill with Pastry Cream

1. While cooling, prepare your pastry cream by whisking together egg yolks, cornstarch, sugar, milk, vanilla paste, and lemon zest in a saucepan over medium heat until thickened.
2. Allow cooling slightly before transferring cream into piping bags.
3. Once bomboloni are cool enough to handle, fill each with pastry cream through their sides.

Step 6: Coat in Sugar

1. Roll filled Bomboloni in caster sugar or confectioners’ sugar while they are still warm for that extra sweetness.

Enjoy your homemade Bomboloni – Italian Doughnuts as an unforgettable sweet treat!

How to Serve Bomboloni – Italian Doughnuts

Bomboloni are delightful Italian doughnuts that can be enjoyed in various ways. Their fluffy texture and sweet filling make them a perfect treat for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your Bomboloni experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve your Bomboloni alongside a selection of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing contrast.

Dusted with Powdered Sugar

• Lightly dust your doughnuts with powdered sugar just before serving for an extra touch of sweetness and elegance.

Pair with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these doughnuts with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverage complements the soft texture of the Bomboloni.

Filled with Different Creams

• Experiment with various fillings such as chocolate, fruit curd, or whipped cream to create unique flavor combinations.

Garnished with Chocolate Sauce

• Drizzle some warm chocolate sauce over your Bomboloni for an indulgent treat that chocolate lovers will adore.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange several filled Bomboloni on a platter alongside other desserts for a beautiful and delicious dessert spread at gatherings.

How to Perfect Bomboloni – Italian Doughnuts

Creating the perfect Bomboloni requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your doughnuts turn out light, fluffy, and delicious.

• Use the right flour: Combining strong bread flour with 00 flour or all-purpose flour gives the doughnuts their desired texture.
• Monitor fermentation: Allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size. This step is crucial for achieving that pillowy softness.
• Fry at the correct temperature: Maintain oil temperature between 350°F (175°C) and 375°F (190°C) to prevent greasy doughnuts.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in small batches to ensure even cooking and to avoid dropping the oil temperature.
• Cool before filling: Let the fried Bomboloni cool slightly before adding your filling, preventing it from melting away.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add zest from citrus fruits or spices like nutmeg to enhance the flavor of your doughnut dough.

Best Side Dishes for Bomboloni – Italian Doughnuts

While Bomboloni are delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
2. A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness alongside rich doughnuts.
3. Yogurt Parfait
4. Layer yogurt with granola and honey for a creamy contrast that balances sweetness.
5. Chocolate Mousse
6. This rich and airy dessert pairs beautifully, creating a lovely indulgence when served together.
7. Custard Cups
8. Serve small cups of vanilla custard as a dipping option for those who love creamy textures.
9. Ice Cream
10. A scoop of vanilla or gelato adds a cool touch that complements warm Bomboloni perfectly.
11. Cheese Board
12. Include mild cheeses like mascarpone or ricotta for a savory counterpoint to sweet doughnuts.
13. Caramel Sauce
14. A drizzle of homemade caramel provides an extra layer of richness and depth in flavor when enjoyed together.
15. Chia Seed Pudding
16. This healthy option adds crunch and creaminess while being light enough not to overpower the sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Bomboloni – Italian Doughnuts can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results.

• Bold Measurements: Not measuring ingredients accurately can ruin the dough’s consistency. Use a kitchen scale for precision.
• Bold Temperature Trouble: Using cold eggs or milk can affect yeast activation. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
• Bold Overmixing: Mixing the dough too much can make it tough. Combine until just incorporated to keep your Bomboloni light and fluffy.
• Bold Frying Temperature: Frying at the wrong temperature can lead to greasy doughnuts or undercooked centers. Use a thermometer to maintain oil at 350°F (175°C).
• Bold Skipping Proofing: Neglecting the proofing step will result in dense doughnuts. Allow adequate time for the dough to rise and become airy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Bomboloni in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing Bomboloni – Italian Doughnuts

• Freeze unfilled Bomboloni for up to 3 months.
• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Bomboloni – Italian Doughnuts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid drying them out.
• Stovetop: Warm in a non-stick skillet over low heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Bomboloni – Italian Doughnuts.

Can I use different flours for Bomboloni?

Yes, you can experiment with various flours, but using strong bread flour and 00 flour yields the best texture.

What is the best filling for Bomboloni – Italian Doughnuts?

Traditional fillings like pastry cream or fruit jams work wonderfully. You can also try chocolate or custard for variety.

How long does it take to make Bomboloni?

The total time is approximately 4 hours, including preparation, proofing, and cooking time.

Can I bake Bomboloni instead of frying?

Baking is an option, but it won’t achieve the same texture. If you prefer baking, adjust the recipe accordingly and use a higher temperature.

Final Thoughts

Bomboloni – Italian Doughnuts are a delightful treat that combines softness with sweetness. Their versatility allows you to customize fillings and toppings according to your taste. Whether served at breakfast or enjoyed as dessert, these doughnuts are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try!