German Berliner, also known simply as Berliners, are fluffy donuts filled with sweet fruit jam. They are popular in Germany and many other countries. This treat is loved for its light, airy texture and sweet filling, making it perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any special occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
Making German Berliner at home is a fun and rewarding experience. You get to enjoy fresh, warm donuts filled with your choice of fruit jam. Plus, they are a delightful treat to share with family and friends. The satisfaction of creating these delicious donuts from scratch is unmatched!
How to Make German Berliner
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup fruit jam (e.g., raspberry or strawberry)
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions
- In a bowl, combine warm milk and yeast; let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs to the flour mixture.
- Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, about 5-10 minutes.
- Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
- Punch down the dough, then roll it out to 1/2 inch thickness and cut out circles.
- Place jam in the center of half of the circles and cover with the remaining circles, crimping edges to seal.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the donuts until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
How to Serve German Berliner
Serve German Berliner warm, dusted with powdered sugar. They make a perfect treat for breakfast or tea time. You can also serve them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
How to Store German Berliner
To store German Berliner, place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, but they are best enjoyed fresh.
Tips to Make German Berliner
- Make sure your milk is warm but not hot, to properly activate the yeast.
- Kneading the dough well is key to getting that fluffy texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the fryer; fry in batches if needed for even cooking.
Variation
You can fill German Berliner with different fillings such as chocolate, Bavarian cream, or Nutella for a fun twist on the traditional recipe.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of flour?
A: Yes, you can use bread flour for a chewier texture but all-purpose flour works great.
Q: How do I know when the oil is ready for frying?
A: You can drop a small piece of dough into the oil—if it sizzles and rises, the oil is ready.
Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: Yes, you can bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, but they will not have the same texture as fried ones.
