Berlin donuts with cream and cherry topping

Berliners with cream and cherry topping – an irresistible delight

Do you want a recipe that will bring a smile to your face and fill your home with a sweet and aromatic scent? Then, Berliners with cream and cherry topping are the perfect choice! These fluffy doughnuts, accompanied by a delicious cherry sauce and creamy sour cream, are ideal for a snack, a dessert, or even to impress your guests.

Before we begin, let’s familiarize ourselves a little with this fascinating recipe. Berliners are a type of filled doughnut that has become popular worldwide. Over time, the recipes have evolved, but their essence remains the same: a fluffy dough, fried until golden, and a topping that perfectly complements the flavor.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 12 doughnuts

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 500 g flour (preferably type 000 for a fine texture)
- 270 ml lukewarm milk (not hot, to avoid killing the yeast)
- 2 egg yolks (for added richness in flavor)
- 50 g Rama margarine (or butter, if you prefer)
- 40 g sugar (adjustable according to preferences)
- 1 cube of fresh yeast (or 7 g of dry yeast)
- a pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)

For the topping:
- 400 g cherries (pitted, fresh or frozen)
- 3-4 tablespoons sugar (adjustable to taste)
- 2 tablespoons water (to help form the sauce)

For serving:
- Cooking cream (creamy, for a perfect contrast)

Steps for preparation:

1. Preparing the dough: Start by melting the margarine in the microwave, then let it cool slightly. In a large bowl, sift the flour to avoid lumps and aerate the ingredient.

2. Activating the yeast: In a cup, add the lukewarm milk, yeast cube, and sugar. Mix well until the yeast dissolves. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.

3. Combining the ingredients: Add the egg yolks and the melted and cooled margarine to the milk mixture. Mix well. Then, pour this mixture over the flour and add the salt. Knead the dough well for about 10 minutes until you obtain an elastic and non-sticky dough.

4. Fermenting the dough: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in volume.

5. Shaping the doughnuts: Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface and knead it gently to release the air. Use a large glass to cut circles from the dough, and with a smaller one, cut out the center of each doughnut.

6. Second rise: Let the doughnuts rise again for 20 minutes, covered with a towel, to fill with air and become fluffy.

7. Preparing the cherry topping: While the doughnuts are rising, wash the cherries and pit them. Place them in a small pot, add sugar and water, and simmer over low heat. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens and the cherries become soft, about 10-15 minutes.

8. Frying the doughnuts: In a deep pan, heat the oil to medium temperature. Fry the doughnuts on both sides until golden, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Use a spatula to turn them carefully.

9. Serving: Once the doughnuts are fried and have a beautiful appearance, remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Serve the doughnuts warm, with a generous portion of sour cream on top and cherry topping.

Practical tips:

- Sweetening the topping: If you like sweeter cherries, you can adjust the sugar amount in the cherry sauce. You can also add a little lemon juice for a pleasant contrast.
- Variations: You can experiment with other types of fruits for the topping, such as cherries, raspberries, or even peaches. Each variation will add a distinct note to your doughnuts.
- Finding the right oil: Use an oil with a high smoke point, such as sunflower or peanut oil, to avoid burning the doughnuts.

Nutritional benefits:

These doughnuts are a good source of carbohydrates, and the addition of cherries gives them an extra boost of antioxidants and vitamins. Cherries are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and high vitamin C content, making this dessert a healthier choice when enjoyed in moderation.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast. Use about 7 g, but don’t forget to activate it just like fresh yeast.

2. How can I make the doughnuts less greasy?
You can bake the doughnuts instead of frying them. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 180°C for about 20-25 minutes.

3. What can I do with leftover doughnuts?
The doughnuts can be stored in the fridge for 1-2 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave, or you can turn them into a cake by cutting them in half and filling them with cream or jam.

4. What can I serve with the doughnuts?
These doughnuts are excellent with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also pair them with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to put on your apron and get cooking! Berliners with cream and cherry topping will surely become a favorite in your family. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: Dough: 500 g flour, 270 ml warm milk, 2 egg yolks, 50 g margarine, 40 g sugar, 1 cube of yeast, a pinch of salt. Topping: 400 g sour cherries (pitted), 3-4 tablespoons sugar, 2 tablespoons water. Additionally: cooking cream.

 Tags:  fluffy doughnuts