Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Bomboloni (Italian Donuts)


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Julia
  • Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Bomboloni, or Italian donuts, are fluffy, sugar-coated pastries traditionally filled with pastry cream, jam, or Nutella. These homemade bomboloni are perfect for breakfast or dessert, delivering authentic Italian flavor with a soft, airy texture. Ideal for special occasions or a sweet indulgence any day of the week.


Ingredients

Dough:

2¼ teaspoons instant yeast

½ cup lukewarm milk

3 tablespoons granulated sugar

2½ cups all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons potato starch (optional)

¼ teaspoon salt

3 egg yolks

¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

For frying and coating:

Vegetable oil, for frying

Granulated sugar, for coating

Optional Fillings:

Pastry cream

Jam

Nutella


Instructions

  1. Dissolve yeast in lukewarm milk and let sit until frothy (about 5 minutes).

  2. In a large bowl, mix flour, potato starch (if using), sugar, and salt.

  3. Add egg yolks and yeast mixture; stir until dough starts to form.

  4. Knead in softened butter until the dough is smooth and elastic (10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes in a stand mixer).

  5. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 2 hours, or until doubled.

  6. Punch down the dough, roll out to ½ inch thickness, and cut into circles.

  7. Let dough rounds rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

  8. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry bomboloni in batches, 2–3 minutes per side.

  9. Drain on paper towels and roll warm bomboloni in sugar.

  10. Optional: Fill with pastry cream, jam, or Nutella using a piping bag.

Notes

Dough can be prepped ahead and refrigerated overnight.

Potato starch adds extra softness but can be omitted.

For a citrus twist, add lemon or orange zest to the dough.

Best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated gently.

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Italian