She Strengthens

Hanukkah Delights: Sufganiyot Recipe

The Star of the Hanukkah Show

While latkes may be the snack most associated with Hanukkah, sufganiyot are the true stars of the show in Israel. And it’s easy to see why – these addictive treats don’t leave your house smelling like a fried latke factory!

Getting Started

To make these delicious donuts, you’ll need a few special tools: a 2-inch round cutter, a candy/fat thermometer, and a 12- to 18-inch pastry bag fitted with a 1/4-inch round tip.

Game Plan

When deep-frying, it’s crucial to maintain a constant temperature. Adjust your stove’s heat as needed to keep the oil at the perfect temperature.

Yield and Difficulty

This recipe yields 30 donuts and has a medium level of difficulty. Set aside about 1 hour and 15 minutes, plus 2 hours for rising time.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
• 2 large egg yolks
• 3/4 cup warm whole milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 6 cups vegetable or canola oil
• 2/3 cup smooth jam or jelly
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Step 1: Mix and Rise

Combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a stand mixer bowl. Whisk to combine, then add yolks and milk. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Add butter and mix until smooth and elastic. Coat a large bowl with oil, form the dough into a ball, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size.

Step 2: Roll and Cut

Punch down the dough, transfer to a lightly floured surface, and roll until about 1/4 inch thick. Use a 2-inch round cutter to stamp out dough rounds. Gather scraps, roll out again, and stamp until you have 30 rounds.

Step 3: Fry and Fill

Heat oil in a Dutch oven or large pot until it reaches 350°F. Carefully transfer dough rounds into the oil, frying until golden brown. Flip and fry the second side. Remove with a slotted spoon and repeat with remaining dough rounds. Once cool, puncture the side of each donut to form a pocket, then pipe in jam or jelly. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Tips and Tricks

• Use a flat spatula to transfer dough rounds into the oil to prevent deflating the donuts.
• If air bubbles appear in the donuts, pierce with the tip of a paring knife.
• Experiment with different jam or jelly flavors to find your favorite!