Bomboloni – The Best Italian Donuts

Bomboloni are soft, pillowy Italian donuts filled with luscious pastry cream, Nutella, or jam. These deep-fried delights have a golden, slightly crisp exterior coated in sugar, making them the perfect sweet indulgence. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, dessert, or a special treat, bomboloni are a must-try for any donut lover!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Italian treat – A traditional favorite from Italy, especially in Tuscany.
• Soft and fluffy – Light, airy dough with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Endless filling options – Classic pastry cream, chocolate, jam, or even custard.
• Perfect for any occasion – Great for breakfast, dessert, or a coffee-time snack.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough:

• All-purpose flour
• Sugar
• Active dry yeast
• Warm milk
• Eggs
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Vanilla extract
• Lemon zest (optional, for a hint of freshness)
• Salt

For Frying & Coating:

• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• Granulated sugar (for coating)

For the Filling (Optional):

• Pastry cream
• Nutella
• Fruit jam

Directions

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Make the dough: In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add eggs, vanilla, lemon zest, and the activated yeast mixture. Knead until combined.
3. Incorporate the butter: Add softened butter gradually while kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Let it rise: Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the bomboloni: Roll out the dough to about ½-inch thickness and cut out circles. Place them on a baking sheet and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
6. Fry until golden: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry bomboloni in batches, turning them until golden brown on all sides. Drain on paper towels.
7. Coat and fill: Roll warm bomboloni in sugar, then fill with pastry cream, Nutella, or jam using a piping bag.
8. Serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 12-15 bomboloni
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Rising time: 2.5 hours
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: About 3 hours

Variations

• Baked version – Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes instead of frying.
• Cinnamon sugar coating – Mix sugar with cinnamon for extra flavor.
• Chocolate bomboloni – Fill with Nutella or chocolate ganache.
• Lemon cream filling – Use lemon curd for a tangy twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving to maintain crispness.
• Freezing: Freeze unfilled bomboloni for up to 2 months. Reheat before filling.

FAQs

What is the difference between bomboloni and regular donuts?

Bomboloni are Italian-style donuts that are usually filled and have a softer, fluffier texture compared to traditional ring-shaped donuts.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can refrigerate the dough overnight and fry the next day.

What is the best oil for frying bomboloni?

Use a neutral oil like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil.

How do I know when the oil is ready for frying?

The oil should be at 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of dough in—if it sizzles and rises, it’s ready.

Can I make these without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can knead the dough by hand, but it will take more effort to achieve a smooth, elastic texture.

What is the best filling for bomboloni?

Classic pastry cream, Nutella, and jam are all delicious choices!

Why is my dough not rising?

Check that your yeast is fresh and that the dough is placed in a warm environment to rise.

How do I prevent greasy bomboloni?

Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying and drain them on paper towels immediately after frying.

Can I air-fry bomboloni?

Yes! Air-fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I get the perfect sugar coating?

Roll the bomboloni in sugar while they are still warm so the sugar sticks better.

Conclusion

Bomboloni are the ultimate Italian donuts—fluffy, sweet, and filled with delicious cream or chocolate. Whether fried fresh or made ahead, they’re an irresistible treat that will impress your family and friends. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of Italy!

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