The aroma of freshly fried donuts wafted through the kitchen, instantly transforming my ordinary Saturday into a special occasion. Making filled sourdough donuts—also known as Bomboloni or Krapfen—has become my beloved weekend ritual. With their pillowy softness and a variety of delightful fillings like creamy pastry or luscious jam, these donuts are the kind of homemade treat that brings smiles to everyone. Not only are they a labor of love, but the fermentation from the sourdough starter adds an irresistible tang that elevates them beyond regular donuts. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up and can be tailored to fit any sweet craving! So, are you ready to indulge in the most decadent delight that will have you and your loved ones coming back for seconds? Let’s dive into the magic of these filled sourdough donuts!
Why You’ll Crave Filled Sourdough Donuts?
Irresistible Flavors: Each bite of these filled sourdough donuts reveals a delightful explosion of your chosen filling, be it rich chocolate ganache or fruity jam. Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for sharing, they make an impressive addition to brunch or dessert. Simple Technique: With basic frying and baking skills, you can easily master this recipe at home. Unique Twist: The addition of sourdough gives a special twist, elevating them above standard donuts. Versatile Fillings: Customize them with an array of flavors to satisfy any palate—try some Creme Brulee Donuts for an extra sweet treat!Timeless Tradition: Celebrate the heritage of Bomboloni or Krapfen while creating delicious memories.
Filled Sourdough Donuts Ingredients
Discover the essentials for crafting the perfect filled sourdough donuts!
For the Dough
- Sourdough Starter – Ensures a tangy flavor and soft texture.
- Bread Flour – Provides structure and chewiness for a satisfying bite.
- Eggs – Richness and moisture are contributed for delightful tenderness.
- Sugar – Sweetens the dough and enhances browning during frying.
- Yeast – Helps the dough rise beautifully for a light finish.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds depth and a tender crumb to the donuts.
- Milk – Hydrates and enriches the dough for extra softness.
- Salt – Balances flavors and strengthens the dough’s structure.
For Frying
- Oil (for frying) – Essential for cooking the donuts to golden perfection.
For the Filling
- Filling (jam, pastry cream, etc.) – Customize flavors to your preference; endless options available!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Filled Sourdough Donuts
Step 1: Prepare the Starter
Begin by feeding your sourdough starter at least 4 hours before you start mixing the dough, allowing it to reach its peak activity. The starter is ready when it’s bubbly and has doubled in size, providing the perfect fermentation boost for your filled sourdough donuts.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine your bubbly sourdough starter, bread flour, eggs, sugar, and warm milk. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Allow it to rest for 30 minutes, which helps with gluten development. After the rest, knead in salt and softened unsalted butter using your hands or a stand mixer until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
Step 3: First Rise
Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise at room temperature for 3 to 4 hours. The dough should expand by at least one-third. Once it’s risen, punch it down gently, cover again, and refrigerate overnight. This overnight chilling enhances the flavor and makes shaping easier.
Step 4: Shape the Donuts
The next day, remove the dough from the fridge and let it sit for 30 minutes to warm slightly. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about ½ inch thick. Cut it into 12 equal pieces and gently shape each piece into a ball. Place the balls on a floured baking sheet, cover them, and let them proof until relaxed, about 30-45 minutes.
Step 5: Fry Donuts
In a deep pot or fryer, heat oil to 360°F (182°C). Carefully add the donuts, making sure not to overcrowd the pot; fry them in batches if necessary. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and puffed. Using a slotted spoon, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 6: Fill Donuts
Once the donuts are cool enough to handle, roll them in sugar to coat if desired. Using a piping bag fitted with a small tip, inject your choice of filling—such as jam, pastry cream, or chocolate ganache—into each donut. Fill them generously, but be careful not to overfill. Your delicious filled sourdough donuts are now ready to serve!
How to Store and Freeze Filled Sourdough Donuts
Airtight Container: Store filled sourdough donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their softness and freshness.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze unfilled donuts for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before filling and serving.
Reheating: To enjoy your donuts warm, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This restores their soft texture!
Avoid Overfilling: If you plan to freeze, consider filling them with jam or cream after thawing to avoid sogginess.
Filled Sourdough Donuts: Sweet Twists Await
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize your filled sourdough donuts to suit your cravings!
- Chocolate Ganache: Substitute your filling with rich chocolate ganache for a decadent touch. Each bite melts in your mouth!
- Fruit Preserves: Swap the jam for your favorite fruit preserves, like apricot or raspberry, to add a bright, fruity zing.
- Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Roll your fried donuts in cinnamon sugar instead of plain sugar for a delightful spice twist.
- Nutella Filling: For a playful indulgence, pump a generous amount of Nutella into the center before enjoying. Chocolate lovers rejoice!
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk and dairy-free butter to make the recipe suitable for lactose intolerance while keeping that delicious flavor intact.
- Coconut Flakes: After rolling in sugar, toss in sweetened coconut flakes for a tropical flair that makes each donut feel like a mini vacation.
- Maple Cream Filling: Whip up maple-flavored pastry cream for a seasonal twist that’s perfect in autumn or winter.
- Zesty Lemon Curd: Inject with tangy lemon curd for a bright contrast that adds a refreshing bite alongside the sweetness.
As you explore these delightful variations, imagine the smiles around the table! For an extra indulgence, consider pairing these donuts with some exquisite Creme Brulee Donuts that are sure to take your brunch game to the next level.
What to Serve with Filled Sourdough Donuts?
The delightful experience of savoring warm filled donuts is always enhanced with the right accompaniments.
Rich Coffee: The warmth and bitterness of a freshly brewed cup elevates the sweetness of the donuts, creating a heavenly balance. Sipping coffee while enjoying the rich flavors in each bite is pure bliss.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the warm, fluffy donuts. The melty creaminess, paired with the sweet fillings, transforms each bite into a decadent treat.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling a luscious chocolate sauce over your donuts adds an indulgent twist. It intensifies the flavor of chocolate-filled donuts, making them even more enjoyable.
Fresh Berries: A handful of juicy, ripe berries like raspberries or strawberries adds a refreshing burst of tartness. Their vibrant color and flavor beautifully contrast with the soft donuts, brightening up your plate.
Sparkling Lemonade: An effervescent glass of homemade sparkling lemonade can cut through the richness of the fried donuts. The citrusy zing uplifts the flavors while keeping things light and refreshing.
Honey Drizzle: A touch of honey drizzled over your donuts lends a natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor. It complements both fruit and cream fillings, making for an irresistible treat.
Classic Milk: A cold glass of milk is a timeless pairing that brings out the nostalgic feeling of enjoying donuts as a child. It’s the ultimate comfort drink that makes any pastry feel right at home.
Make Ahead Options
These filled sourdough donuts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before frying. Simply follow the first three steps of the recipe, let the dough rise, and then cover it and place it in the fridge overnight. This not only saves time for the next day but also enhances the sourdough flavor! When you’re ready to serve, take the chilled dough out, shape and proof it, and then fry as instructed. For the best results, fry the donuts fresh to maintain their pillowy texture and warm filling, ensuring they taste just as delightful as when made the same day!
Expert Tips for Perfect Filled Sourdough Donuts
Temperature Check: Ensure your oil temperature stays between 350°F and 370°F for consistently golden, non-greasy filled sourdough donuts.
Starter Freshness: Use a peak-quality sourdough starter to avoid overly sour-tasting donuts. Feed it a few hours before starting your recipe.
Kneading Technique: Utilize a stand mixer with a dough hook for even kneading, achieving the best texture for your filled sourdough donuts.
Donut Spacing: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature; overcrowding leads to unevenly cooked donuts.
Filling Method: Inject fillings gently using a piping bag, but avoid overfilling to prevent messy bursts.
Enjoy Fresh: These donuts are best served the same day; store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Filled Sourdough Donuts Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my sourdough starter is ripe and ready to use?
Absolutely! Your sourdough starter is ready when it has doubled in size, is bubbly on top, and has a pleasant, slightly tangy aroma. Typically, this takes about 4 to 6 hours after feeding, depending on the room temperature. Conduct a “float test” by dropping a small spoonful of the starter in water; if it floats, it’s ready to work its magic in your filled sourdough donuts!
What’s the best way to store leftover filled sourdough donuts?
Very! You can store your filled sourdough donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and enjoyable! Just ensure they are completely cool before sealing. To extend their lifespan, consider freezing unfilled donuts, as the filling may make them soggy upon thawing.
Can I freeze filled sourdough donuts?
Absolutely! For the best texture, freeze the unfilled donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw them at room temperature, fill with your favorite filling, and enjoy! If you opt for a filling like jam, this can be done after thawing to prevent sogginess.
What should I do if my donuts come out too oily?
Oh no! If your filled sourdough donuts turn out oily, it may be due to the oil temperature being too low. Make sure your oil temperature stays between 350°F and 370°F (175°C to 182°C). If you see dark spots forming on your donuts, that’s a sign of excessive oil absorption. Always fry in small batches, allowing each donut room to float freely.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you’re serving these donuts to children or anyone with allergies, be mindful of certain ingredients. Eggs, dairy, and gluten-containing flour can be common allergens. You can experiment with gluten-free flour blends if needed. For vegan options, substitute eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture, and use plant-based milk and butter alternatives.
How can I enhance the flavor of my filled sourdough donuts?
Very! To elevate the flavor, try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough. You can also infuse your filling with vanilla or citrus zest for an exciting twist. Delve into unique flavor fillings like salted caramel or hazelnut cream for a gourmet experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Filled Sourdough Donuts: A Dreamy Weekend Treat You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Feed your sourdough starter at least 4 hours before starting the dough.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine your bubbly sourdough starter, bread flour, eggs, sugar, and warm milk to form a sticky dough.
- Allow the dough to rest for 30 minutes, then knead in salt and softened butter until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
- Transfer to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise at room temperature for 3-4 hours until expanded by one-third, then refrigerate overnight.
- Remove from the fridge, let sit for 30 minutes, roll out to ½ inch thick, cut into 12 pieces, shape into balls, and proof for 30-45 minutes.
- Heat oil to 360°F (182°C) and fry donuts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Cool slightly, optionally roll in sugar, and fill with desired filling using a piping bag.
- Serve and enjoy your filled sourdough donuts!