Krofne, also known as Serbian donuts, are soft and fluffy pastries that are deep-fried and often filled with jam or custard, then dusted with powdered sugar. These delightful treats are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a special occasion. Here’s how to make them at home.
Ingredients:
- 500g all-purpose flour
- 250ml warm milk
- 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast
- 100g sugar
- 2 eggs
- 100g unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Jam or custard (for filling)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, dissolve 1 tablespoon of the sugar in warm milk. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk and let it sit for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Donuts:
- Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness.
- Use a round cookie cutter to cut out circles of dough. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Fry the Donuts:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 175°C (350°F). Fry the donuts in batches, turning them once, until they are golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove the donuts with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Fill and Dust:
- Once the donuts have cooled slightly, use a pastry bag fitted with a small tip to fill them with jam or custard.
- Dust the filled donuts with powdered sugar before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Krofne, a delicious and fluffy Serbian treat perfect for any time of day!