Ingredients
To make the perfect fried krapfen, you will need the following ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Oil, for frying
- Preferred jam or filling for the doughnuts
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix them well.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until the mixture forms a sticky dough.
Step 2: Kneading and Rising
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 2 hours until it doubles in size.
Step 3: Shaping and Filling
Punch down the risen dough and roll it out to a ½-inch thickness on a floured surface.
Using a circular cookie cutter or a glass, cut out rounds from the dough and place them on a lined baking sheet.
Take each round and place a teaspoon of your preferred jam or filling in the center.
Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal it, forming a ball-shaped krapfen.
Step 4: Frying
In a deep pot or a fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
Carefully place a few krapfen at a time into the hot oil and fry them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown.
Remove the fried krapfen using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Dust the warm krapfen with powdered sugar while they are still slightly oily for a better sugar adhesion.
Allow the doughnuts to cool slightly before serving, or enjoy them while they are still warm and ooey-gooey!
Now that you know the secrets to making perfect fried krapfen, grab your apron and get ready to impress your family and friends with this irresistible treat. These delightful doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh, so don’t hesitate to indulge in them while they are still warm. Happy frying!