🍩 Bombolini (Italian Donuts)

Ingredients:

Dough:

• 2¼ tsp instant yeast
• ½ cup lukewarm milk
• 3 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp potato starch (optional)
• ¼ tsp salt
• 3 egg yolks
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

For Frying & Coating:

• Vegetable oil, for frying
• ½ cup granulated sugar (for coating)
• Optional fillings: pastry cream, Nutella, or jam

Instructions:

1. Activate Yeast:
   In a small bowl, mix yeast, lukewarm milk, and 1 tbsp sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Make the Dough:
   In a large bowl, combine flour, potato starch (if using), salt, remaining sugar, and egg yolks. Add the yeast mixture and mix until dough starts to come together. Knead in the softened butter until smooth and elastic (about 8–10 minutes).
3. First Rise:
   Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
4. Shape Donuts:
   Punch down dough and roll out to about ½-inch thickness. Cut into rounds using a cookie cutter or glass (about 3 inches wide). Place on a tray, cover lightly, and let rise again for 30–40 minutes.
5. Fry:
   Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry donuts in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
6. Coat & Fill:
   While warm, roll donuts in granulated sugar. If desired, use a piping bag to fill with pastry cream, Nutella, or jam.
7. Serve:
   Enjoy warm for the best texture — soft, fluffy, and irresistible! 😋

⏱️ Time & Servings:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Rise Time: ~2 hours
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: ~2 hours 35 minutes
• Servings: ~12 donuts