Name: Delicious Sufganiyot: 12 Jelly-Filled Treats for Joy
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Cuisine: Jewish
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons active dry yeast; 3/4 cup lukewarm water or milk; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup canola oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon liquor (vodka, brandy, ouzo, or arak); 1 cup fruit jelly or jam; Oil with high smoke point; 1 cup powdered sugar

Sufganiyot are delightful jelly-filled doughnuts that bring warmth and joy to any occasion. These traditional Jewish donuts are especially popular during Hanukkah, symbolizing the miracle of oil. Each bite offers a sweet explosion of flavor that can brighten up any celebration. With a light, fluffy texture and a variety of fillings, learning how to make sufganiyot at home is a rewarding experience. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will elevate your festive gatherings!

Why You’ll Love This Sufganiyot

This sufganiyot recipe is not just about the taste; it’s about the experience. Here are a few reasons to love these sweets:

Tradition: Enjoying sufganiyot is a cherished Jewish tradition during Hanukkah.
Flavor Variety: You can fill them with your favorite fruit jelly or jam, making each bite unique.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch effortlessly.
Fun for Everyone: Kids and adults alike love these jelly donuts.
Perfect for Sharing: They’re ideal for gatherings, making them a hit at any party.
Vegan Options: Easily adapt the recipe for vegan sufganiyot.

These delightful treats are a wonderful addition to any Hanukkah celebration or for anyone seeking a sweet indulgence.

Ingredients for Sufganiyot

Gather these items:

2 teaspoons active dry yeast
3/4 cup lukewarm water or milk
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup canola oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon liquor (vodka, brandy, ouzo, or arak)
1 cup fruit jelly or jam
Oil with high smoke point
1 cup powdered sugar

How to Make Sufganiyot Step-by-Step

Step 1: Activate the Yeast: Combine the active dry yeast, lukewarm water (or milk), and sugar; whisk and let sit until foamy.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients: Whisk in remaining water, sugar, canola oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift together flour and salt.
Step 4: Start Mixing: Add yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and mix at low speed for 10 minutes until sticky.
Step 5: Add the Liquor: Mix in the liquor and continue mixing for 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Let it Rise: Grease a bowl, add dough, cover, and let rise for 2 hours until doubled.
Step 7: Shape the Dough: Roll dough into a 1/2 inch thick circle.
Step 8: Cut Out Circles: Use a cookie cutter to cut out dough circles.
Step 9: Second Rise: Dust tops with flour and let rise for another 45 minutes.
Step 10: Prepare the Jam: Ensure jam is smooth for filling.
Step 11: Heat the Oil: Heat oil to 325°F in a large pan.
Step 12: Fry the Doughnuts: Fry dough circles for 90 seconds per side until golden brown.
Step 13: Drain the Oil: Transfer to a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Step 14: Fill with Jam: Create a hollow in the doughnuts and fill with jam.
Step 15: Dust with Sugar: Generously dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Sufganiyot

Keep these in mind:

Make sure your oil is at the right temperature to avoid soggy donuts.
For a lighter dough, consider sifting your flour twice.
Experiment with different fillings for unique flavors.
Using a candy thermometer helps ensure your oil stays at 325°F for frying.

Best Ways to Serve Sufganiyot

These fried doughnuts can be served in various delightful ways:

Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
Serve with a side of fresh fruit for added color and flavor.
Consider a chocolate sauce drizzle for an indulgent twist on these traditional Jewish donuts.

How to Store and Reheat Sufganiyot

To keep your sufganiyot fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep them longer, freeze them for up to a month. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sufganiyot

What’s the secret to perfect Sufganiyot?

The secret lies in properly activating the yeast and ensuring the oil is at the right temperature for frying. This will result in fluffy, golden-brown jelly donuts that are not greasy.

Can I make Sufganiyot ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Just allow it to come to room temperature before frying.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sufganiyot?

Pay attention to the temperature of your oil and ensure your dough has risen adequately. This will help prevent dense or oily donuts.

Variations of Sufganiyot You Can Try

There are endless possibilities when it comes to sufganiyot. Here are a few variations to consider:

For a healthier spin, try a baked version instead of fried.
Fill them with chocolate ganache or custard for a decadent treat.
Explore global variations, such as sufganiyot filled with dulce de leche or cream cheese.

Whether you stick with the traditional jelly filling or explore new flavors, these sweet dough balls are sure to delight!

Delicious Sufganiyot: 12 Jelly-Filled Treats for Joy - Sufganiyot - main visual representation

For more delicious recipes, check out our small batch apple pumpkin muffins or crumbl caramel apple cookies.

Delicious Sufganiyot: 12 Jelly-Filled Treats for Joy - Sufganiyot - additional detail

For more information on the history of sufganiyot, visit My Jewish Learning for a detailed overview.

To learn about the health benefits of frying with oil, check out this article on Healthline.