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German Berliner

These fluffy, jam-filled German pastries, known as Berliner, are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack. Explore this delightful recipe to create your own at home!
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 pieces
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: German
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup sugar plus additional for activating yeast
  • 1 packet active dry yeast ensure it is fresh
  • 1/2 cup milk, warmed for activating yeast
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
Filling and Topping
  • 1 cup fruit jam (raspberry or strawberry) or any preferred jam
  • Oil for frying ensure it is at the right temperature
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a small bowl, combine warmed milk, a packet of active dry yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, the rest of the sugar (1/4 cup), and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, and one large egg.
  3. Mix the ingredients until they form a dough. Transfer it to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
Shaping and Frying
  1. After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out to about 1/2 inch thickness. Cut 3-inch circles using a cookie cutter.
  2. Gather any scraps, re-roll, and cut more circles. Place the circles on a floured surface and cover them for another 20-30 minutes to rise.
  3. Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place a few dough circles into the hot oil, frying them in batches until golden brown—about 2-3 minutes on each side.
  4. Once fried, place the Berliners on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Allow them to cool slightly.
  5. Use a pastry bag or a funnel to inject your choice of fruit jam into each Berliner.
  6. Finally, dust the warm Berliners with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

You can fill these Berliners with various jams such as raspberry, strawberry, Nutella, or custard. For a lighter version, you may bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes instead of frying. Store leftover Berliners in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze them for longer storage.