Introduction

Sufganiyot, the delectable jelly-filled donuts traditionally enjoyed during Hanukkah, are a beloved treat in Israel and around the world. These soft, pillowy donuts are fried to golden perfection and filled with fruit preserves, usually raspberry or strawberry, offering a delightful contrast between the sweet, sticky filling and the fluffy dough. Making sufganiyot at home can be a rewarding experience that brings the spirit of the holiday to your kitchen. Let’s dive into the ingredients, preparation, and cooking details of this delightful dessert.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup warm water (about 110°F)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Canola or vegetable oil, for frying
– Fruit preserves, for filling
– Powdered sugar, for dusting

Prep Time

Preparation time for making sufganiyot is approximately 45 minutes, not including the rising time for the dough.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is about 15 minutes. Overall, the total time from start to finish can be around 2 hours, depending on the rising times. This recipe typically yields about 12 to 16 sufganiyot, perfect for sharing with family and friends during the festive season.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, sugar, and milk. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. Add in flour, salt, and melted butter. Mix until a dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.

Shape the Donuts

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll the dough to about 1/2 inch thick and cut out rounds using a floured cookie cutter. Place the rounds on a floured baking sheet. Cover them with a cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Heat the Oil

In a deep frying pan or pot, heat oil to 350°F (180°C). Ensure there is enough oil to allow the donuts to float while frying.

Fry the Donuts

Carefully place a few donuts in the hot oil, not crowding the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Fill the Donuts

Using a pastry bag fitted with a small round tip, fill each donut with jam or jelly of your choice. You can hold the donut in one hand and inject the filling into the side.

Dust with Sugar

Once filled, roll the donuts in granulated sugar or dust with powdered sugar while they are still warm for a sweet finish.

Notes

Filling Options

You can use various flavors for the jelly or jam, such as raspberry, apricot, or even chocolate.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the sufganiyot warm for the best flavor and texture, along with your favorite beverages.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh longer, you can freeze them.

Heating Leftovers

If you want to warm up the sufganiyot after storing them, simply reheat in a toaster oven for a few minutes.

Cook techniques

Making the Dough

To create a smooth and soft dough, mix the dry ingredients together before gradually adding the wet ingredients. Knead thoroughly until the dough is elastic.

Proofing the Dough

Allow the dough to rise in a warm environment until it doubles in size. This usually takes about an hour. Cover it with a damp cloth to retain moisture.

Shaping the Donuts

After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out. Cut it into equal pieces, then flatten each piece slightly to shape the donuts.

Frying Techniques

Heat oil in a deep pot to the appropriate temperature before frying. This ensures that the sufganiyot cook evenly and develop a golden-brown color.

Filling the Donuts

Once fried and cooled, fill the donuts with jelly using a pastry bag or a filling tool for precision. Dust them with powdered sugar for a traditional finish.

FAQ

Can I use different fillings for sufganiyot?

Yes, you can experiment with other fillings such as custard, chocolate, or lemon curd to suit your taste.

How do I know when the oil is ready for frying?

You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough into it. If it sizzles and floats to the surface, the oil is ready.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it. Just allow it to come to room temperature before frying.

What should I do with leftover donuts?

Leftover sufganiyot can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. They can also be frozen and reheated later.

Is it possible to bake sufganiyot instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake sufganiyot, but they will have a different texture and taste compared to the traditional fried version.

Conclusion

Sufganiyot, or Israeli jelly donuts, are a delightful treat that bring joy and tradition to any festive occasion, especially Hanukkah. Their soft, fluffy texture combined with sweet, fruity filling makes them irresistible. By mastering this recipe, you can create a batch of delicious donuts that can be enjoyed fresh or shared with loved ones, making any celebration even sweeter.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Chocolate-filled Sufganiyot

For a twist on the classic, try filling your sufganiyot with rich chocolate ganache for a decadent variation.

Maple Glazed Sufganiyot

Top your donuts with a maple glaze for a sweet and seasonal flavor that pairs perfectly for winter celebrations.

Apple Cinnamon Sufganiyot

Infuse your donuts with a spiced apple filling for a cozy fall treat that evokes the essence of autumn.

Pistachio Cream Sufganiyot

Fill the donuts with creamy pistachio filling for a unique flavor that adds a touch of elegance.

Classic Custard-filled Sufganiyot

Opt for traditional custard filling, which offers a smooth and creamy complement to the donut’s exterior.

Lemon Curd Sufganiyot

Brighten your sufganiyot with zesty lemon curd for a refreshing and tangy variation that cuts through sweetness.