German Berliner

German Berliner

Introduction

German Berliner, also known as Berliner Pfannkuchen or simply "Berliner," are delicious filled doughnuts that originate from Germany. They are soft, sweet, and often filled with fruit jam, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even at breakfast!

Why Make This Recipe

Making your own German Berliner at home is a fun and rewarding experience. Not only do you get to savor these fluffy treats fresh from the fryer, but you can also customize the filling to suit your taste. Plus, sharing homemade Berliners with family and friends brings joy to any gathering.

How to Make German Berliner

Ingredients:

• 500g all-purpose flour
• 75g sugar
• 1 packet yeast (7g dry or 21g fresh)
• 250ml milk
• 2 large eggs
• 100g unsalted butter, melted
• Pinch of salt
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Fruit jam (for filling)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, activate the yeast with warm milk and a tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit until frothy.
2. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, and melted butter.
3. Add the yeast mixture and eggs to the dry ingredients and knead until smooth.
4. Let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
5. Punch down the dough and roll it out. Cut into circles.
6. Place a small amount of jam in the center of each circle, fold over, and seal.
7. Let the filled doughnuts rise for another 30 minutes.
8. Heat oil in a deep pan and fry the doughnuts until golden brown.
9. Drain on paper towels and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

How to Serve German Berliner

Serve your German Berliners warm or at room temperature. They are perfect for brunch or as an afternoon snack. Feel free to sprinkle more powdered sugar on top or serve with a side of fresh fruit or whipped cream.

How to Store German Berliner

Store any leftover Berliners in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed fresh but can last for a couple of days. You can also freeze them and reheat them later for a quick treat!

Tips to Make German Berliner

• Ensure that the yeast is fresh for the best rise.
• Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature; it should be around 180°C (350°F) for frying.
• Experiment with different fillings, such as nutella, cream, or custard, for variety.

Variation

You can create chocolate Berliners by using a chocolate filling instead of fruit jam. Try different flavors of jam like raspberry, strawberry, or apricot for a unique twist!

FAQs

Q1: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise, then refrigerate it. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before continuing with the recipe.

Q2: What type of oil is best for frying?
Vegetable oil, canola oil, or any neutral oil works well for frying German Berliners.

Q3: Can I bake German Berliners instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake them at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden. However, the texture will be different from fried Berliner.