Oliebollen (Dutch Donuts)

Baking Dessert
Photo of Oliebollen (Dutch Donuts)

Ingredients

  • 1 tsp (7 grams) yeast
  • 4 tbsp brown sugar
  • 500ml lukewarm milk (regular or oat milk)
  • 500g flour
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 egg
  • Raisins – pre-soaked to soften (optional)
  • Several cups of sunflower or canola oil for frying (can be reused)

Method

  1. Add yeast, brown sugar, and lukewarm milk to a bowl. Let sit for a couple of minutes to activate the yeast.
  2. Mix in flour and salt. The dough should be sticky.
  3. Add the egg and mix well.
  4. Adjust with more flour or water if needed until the dough is just slightly sticky but manageable.
  5. Fold in raisins if using.
  6. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for about an hour until it doubles in size.
  7. Heat oil in a deep pot to 180°C. (If the dough browns too quickly, the oil is too hot.)
  8. Using a wet spoon, scoop ball-shaped portions into the oil. Fry for 5–6 minutes, turning regularly for even cooking.
  9. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  10. Serve warm with lots of icing sugar.