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The first hint of winter chills the crisp air, and suddenly, thoughts of warm, sweet treats come rushing back to me. There’s an unmistakable joy that fills a home when the aroma of frying dough wafts through the kitchen—especially when that dough becomes the beloved Amazing Jelly Donuts, or Sufganiyot. These festive delights, a staple during Hanukkah celebrations, feature a crunchy exterior that gives way to a fluffy center, bursting with fruit-filled goodness. The simple act of making these donuts transforms any gathering into a cherished holiday memory, reminding us of traditions that connect us to our past. Whether served at a family dinner or enjoyed during a quiet evening at home, these donuts promise a taste of joy and nostalgia. Let’s dive into creating these magnificent sweets that are not only easy to whip up but will leave your loved ones yearning for more!

Why is Amazing Jelly Donuts Sufganiyot a must-try?

Irresistible Aroma: The scent that fills your kitchen while frying is simply heavenly, making everyone anticipate the first bite.
Festive Tradition: Enjoying these donuts connects you to Jewish heritage, adding meaning to your celebrations.
Flavorful Filling: Whether you choose classic raspberry or get adventurous with apricot, each bite is a delightful surprise.
Quick to Prepare: With just a few steps, you’ll have scrumptious treats ready in no time—perfect for busy holiday schedules!
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Friends and family will rave about your homemade Sufganiyot, elevating your holiday gatherings to a new level of joy.
Versatile Variations: Experiment with different fillings, or try pastry cream for added indulgence on special occasions!

Amazing Jelly Donuts Sufganiyot Ingredients

• Prepare to make delightful treats that embody the spirit of Hanukkah!

For the Dough

Active Dry Yeast – Essential for achieving that fluffy texture; make sure it’s fresh for the best rise.
Warm Water – Activates the yeast; aim for a cozy temperature between 105-115°F.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough and helps the yeast do its job; a little goes a long way.
All-Purpose Flour – Gives the donuts structure; remember to sift before measuring for accuracy!
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; don’t skip it!
Large Eggs – Adds moisture and richness, creating a delightful dough.
Whole Milk – Contributes creaminess that makes each donut irresistible.
Unsalted Butter – Adds rich flavor and improves texture; melt it before incorporating.

For the Filling

Jelly or Jam – Choose your favorite (raspberry or strawberry are classic!) to create the perfect filling.

For Frying & Topping

Neutral Oil – Frying oil such as vegetable or canola will yield that perfectly crispy finish.
Powdered Sugar – A dusting adds that festive touch, completing your Amazing Jelly Donuts Sufganiyot beautifully.

How to Make Amazing Jelly Donuts Sufganiyot

Activate Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm water, active dry yeast, and a teaspoon of sugar. Allow it to froth for about 5-10 minutes—this ensures the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!
Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients ahead will give your donuts the perfect balance of flavor.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the large eggs, whole milk, and melted unsalted butter. Once frothy, gently fold in your activated yeast mixture—this forms the base of your delightful dough.
Form Dough: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until a shaggy dough forms. Then, knead by hand for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic—imagine the lovely texture you’re creating!
Initial Rise: Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, roughly 1-1.5 hours. Watch it grow—it’s so rewarding!
Shape Donuts: Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball, placing them on a floured surface to rise for another 30 minutes.
Fry Donuts: Heat neutral oil in a pot to 350°F. Fry each donut for about 2-3 minutes per side until they’re gloriously golden brown—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Fill Donuts: Allow the donuts to cool slightly, then use a piping bag to fill them with your favorite jelly or jam. Dust with powdered sugar for that beautiful festive finish!

Optional: Serve warm for an extra burst of joy!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Amazing Jelly Donuts Sufganiyot

Room Temperature: Store uneaten donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 days to keep them soft and fresh.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy donuts after freezing, simply let them thaw at room temperature. Reheat in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat!

Avoid Refrigeration: Storing your Amazing Jelly Donuts Sufganiyot in the fridge can lead to a dense texture, so keep them out for the best experience.

What to Serve with Amazing Jelly Donuts (Sufganiyot)?

There’s nothing quite like celebrating the spirit of Hanukkah with a delightful spread that pairs beautifully with these fulfilling, sweet donuts.

Rich Hot Chocolate: Creamy and chocolatey, a warm cup enhances the sweetness of the donuts while providing a comforting drink for chilly evenings.
Fruit Salad: A bright medley of fresh fruits adds refreshing acidity and balances the sweetness, making each bite of donut even more enjoyable.

For an added touch of elegance, consider serving the donuts alongside your favorite fruit salad, which can also be adapted with seasonal fruits according to what you have at hand.

Vanilla Custard: This rich and creamy custard adds a decadent layer of flavor, turning each donut into a more indulgent dessert experience, perfect for gatherings.
Coffee or Espresso: A bold cup shines alongside your donuts, as the slight bitterness of the coffee beautifully complements the sweetness of the jelly-filled treats.

For a heartier option, think about pairing your jelly donuts with a strong cup of coffee, allowing the flavors to dance, creating a cozy morning or afternoon delight.

Spiced Tea: An aromatic spiced tea not only warms the soul but brings out the fruity notes of the donuts, making it ideal for holiday occasions.
Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade adds a zesty kick that brightens the palate, offering a delightful counterbalance to the sugary sweetness of the donuts.

Lastly, for a fruity zest, enjoy your jelly donuts with a cool, refreshing glass of lemonade, perfect for lively holiday brunches or celebrations.

Expert Tips for Amazing Jelly Donuts

Fresh Yeast: Always ensure your active dry yeast is fresh. Test it with warm water and sugar to confirm it’s bubbly before starting.
Oil Temperature: Fry the donuts at 350°F; using a thermometer helps avoid greasy results from oil that’s too cool.
Fill with Care: Use a piping bag for filling to ensure each donut gets just the right amount of jelly—not too little, not too much!
Avoid Refrigeration: Don’t store donuts in the fridge, as they can become dense. Instead, keep them at room temperature or freeze for longer-lasting freshness.
Flavor Fusion: Get creative with fillings! Consider exploring other jams or even chocolate ganache for a delightful twist on the classic Amazing Jelly Donuts Sufganiyot.

Make Ahead Options

These Amazing Jelly Donuts (Sufganiyot) are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial rise, then covering it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerating it. This keeps the dough fluffy and ready to shape, ensuring just as delicious results when you fry them. Additionally, the donuts can be made and filled up to 3 days before serving; simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature. When you’re ready to delight your family, reheat the donuts slightly in the oven for that fresh-out-of-the-fryer taste!

Amazing Jelly Donuts Sufganiyot Variations

Ready to put your own spin on these delightful donuts? Let your creativity shine and explore these fun adaptations!

Mixed Fillings: Combine different jams like raspberry, apricot, and strawberry for a surprise in every bite. Your guests will love guessing the flavors!
Pastry Cream: Instead of jelly, fill with rich pastry cream for a decadently smooth treat. The contrast of flavors and textures is simply divine.
Chocolate Ganache: Indulge your sweet tooth with a chocolatey twist—fill your donuts with luscious chocolate ganache for a luxurious experience.
Cinnamon Sugar Coating: After frying, roll your donuts in cinnamon sugar for an extra touch of warmth and spice. They’ll be sweet and comforting!
Fruit Compote: Whip up a quick fruit compote using seasonal berries for a fresh and tangy filling option. Brighten up your holiday treat with vibrant flavors!
Savory Twist: For an unexpected but delicious twist, try infusing the dough with a hint of vanilla and filling with savory cheese or herb spreads.
Gluten-Free Variation: Swap out regular flour for a gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten-sensitive friends, ensuring everyone can join in the fun!
Dairy-Free Option: Use almond milk and a dairy-free butter substitute to create a delicious dairy-free version that still packs a flavor punch. Enjoy without remorse!

Amazing Jelly Donuts Sufganiyot Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right yeast for my Amazing Jelly Donuts Sufganiyot?
Absolutely! It’s crucial to use active dry yeast that’s fresh. Look for packets with a date well in the future, and it’s a good idea to activate it with warm water and a teaspoon of sugar before starting your dough. If it bubbles after 5-10 minutes, you’re good to go!

What’s the best way to store my leftover donuts?
For room temperature storage, place your uneaten Amazing Jelly Donuts in an airtight container for up to 1-2 days. If you want to keep them longer, wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months! Remember, avoid the fridge as it can make them dense.

Can I freeze the prepared dough for later use?
Yes, you can! After your dough has undergone the initial rise, punch it down and divide it into portions. Wrap the portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to use it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and bring it back to room temperature before shaping and frying. This way, you can enjoy fresh donuts without the hassle of making the dough from scratch each time!

Why did my donuts turn out greasy after frying?
Oh no! This can happen if the oil temperature is too low—ideally, you want it at 350°F. A good tip is to use a thermometer to monitor the temperature of the oil. If it’s too cool, the donuts will absorb more oil, leading to that greasy finish. Frying in small batches helps maintain the oil’s temperature, too!

Are there any dietary considerations for these donuts?
Great question! For those with allergies, you’ll want to be cautious with the flour, eggs, and dairy. If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can replace the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) and use plant-based milk and butter. Plus, ensure the jelly you choose is free from any allergens.

Can I use alternative fillings for my donuts?
The more the merrier! While traditional fillings include raspberry or strawberry jelly, you can experiment with other flavors like apricot, cherry, or even chocolate ganache for a decadent twist. Just make sure the filling isn’t too watery, as this can affect the texture of your donuts.