Berliner (German Doughnut) Recipe – German Special
Berliner, also known as Pfannkuchen in Berlin or Krapfen in southern Germany, is a traditional German doughnut that’s fluffy, golden, and filled with jam or custard. Unlike American doughnuts, Berliners have no central hole and are typically dusted with powdered sugar or glazed. These festive treats are especially popular during Carnival (Fasching) and New Year’s Eve, bringing joy with every sweet, pillowy bite.
- Prep Time25 min
- Cook Time15 min
- Perform Time1 hr 30 min
- Total Time2 hr 10 min
Berliner (German Doughnut) Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 tsp (7g) active dry yeast
- 3 tbsp warm milk (not hot)
- 2 tbsp sugar (plus 1 tsp for yeast)
- 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 eggs
- 3 tbsp butter, softened
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Jam or fruit preserves (e.g., raspberry, plum, apricot) for filling
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Activate the Yeast:
Dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 tsp sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Make the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add eggs, yeast mixture, vanilla, and butter. Knead into a smooth, elastic dough (about 8–10 minutes by hand or mixer).
Let It Rise:
Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let dough rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, until doubled in size.
Shape the Doughnuts:
Roll out dough to 1/2-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (2.5–3 inches) to cut out circles. Place on parchment, cover, and let rise for 20–30 minutes.
Fry the Berliners:
Heat oil to 175°C (350°F). Fry doughnuts in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden. Drain on paper towels.
Fill and Dust:
Once slightly cooled, fill with jam using a piping bag with a long nozzle. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Recipe Notes :
Filling Ideas: Traditional Berliners use fruit preserves, but you can also try chocolate, custard, or Nutella.
Don’t Overproof: If over-risen, they may deflate when frying. A gentle second proof is ideal.
Oil Temp Matters: Too hot = dark outside, raw inside; too cool = greasy doughnuts.
Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be kept in an airtight container for 1–2 days.
Make Ahead: Unfilled, fried Berliners can be frozen and reheated, then filled before serving.
