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Bombolini (Italian Donuts)


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Pillowy Soft Texture : The yeast dough creates light, airy donuts that melt in your mouth.
  2. Filled to Perfection : Injected with creamy fillings like pastry cream, Nutella, or jam, these donuts are bursting with flavor.
  3. Customizable Fillings : Sweet, creamy, fruity—you choose what goes inside!
  4. Perfect for Sharing : Ideal for special occasions, brunches, or gifting to loved ones.
  5. Kid-Friendly : Even picky eaters will adore these sweet, fluffy treats.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dough:

  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
  • 3 1/2–4 cups all-purpose flour , divided
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3 large eggs , room temperature
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter , softened
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Vegetable oil , for frying

For the Filling:

  • Pastry cream (crema pasticcera), Nutella, jam, or dulce de leche

For Coating:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar , for rolling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes , or until frothy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), whisk together 3 cups of flour , sugar, and salt.
  2. Add the activated yeast mixture, eggs, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface (or with a dough hook) for 8–10 minutes , gradually adding the remaining flour as needed, until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky.