Italian Donuts - Bomboloni

Step 1

In the bowl of the stand up mixer add the milk and sprinkle the yeast on top, let it sit for five minutes then mix together. Then add the sugar, vegetable oil, egg, orange zest and vanilla, whisk together to combine.

Step 2

Slowly add the flour and pinch of salt and with the dough hook attachment, start to mix the dough until it comes together, remember don't go higher than speed 2, continue to knead the dough for about seven minutes, the dough must be smooth and elastic.

Step 3

On a flat surface knead the dough a few times form it into a ball, then place it in a lightly oiled bowl, remember to roll the dough to cover it lightly in the oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in a warm draft free area for about two-three hours or until tripled in bulk.

Step 4

Once the time has passed, knead the dough a few times, roll it to a thickness of ¼ -⅓ inch, cut into six rounds with a 2½ inch / 6½ cm round cookie cutter, place them on a parchment paper lined cookie sheet, cover with plastic wrap and let them rise again for another hour.

Step 5

In a medium sized pot add about 2 inches of vegetable oil,  and heat it to 340-350F (170-175C), try to keep it as close to this temperature as possible while frying. Fry the donuts, turning a couple of times for about two to three minutes on each side.

Step 6

Remove the fried Bomboloni with a slotted spoon to a paper towel lined plate, but leave them only for a couple of seconds, then roll immediately in granulated sugar, be sure to cover them well.

Step 7

Let them cool a little then with the end of a wooden spoon make an indentation at the side of the donut or on top if you prefer, twist it around to open up some space. You are going to want to fill that space with some creamy pastry cream, a simple chantilly cream or even your favourite hazelnut cream. Serve immediately. Enjoy!