German Krapfen

Learn how to make authentic German Krapfen jelly-filled donuts at home with this easy recipe. Soft, fried dough filled with jam and dusted with powdered sugar – a classic treat perfect for any occasion.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 20

Rise Time 1 5

Total Time 1 40

Servings: 8 people

Calories: 303

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
2/3 cup warm milk about 110°F
1 1/2 tsp dry instant yeast
3 tbsp sugar
1 pinch salt
2 tbsp butter room temperature
1 quart vegetable or canola oil for frying
to taste jam for filling (raspberry, apricot, or strawberry)
to taste powdered sugar for dusting

Equipment

Large mixing bowl & wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer
Cooking thermometer
Slotted spoon or kitchen tongs

Method

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and whisk again.
Add the soft butter and egg yolks, then mix on low while slowly pouring in warm milk until the dough pulls away from the sides.
Shape the dough into a ball, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 45 minutes to 1 hour until it doubles in size.
Punch down the risen dough, turn it out onto a floured surface, and divide it into 8-12 pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, covering them again to rest for 20 minutes.
Heat oil in a pot to 350-360°F (175-180°C) for frying.
Carefully lower the dough balls into hot oil, frying them 2-3 at a time until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer them to a wire rack to drain.
Once cooled, fill with jam using a piping bag and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 303kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 4gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 90mgPotassium: 90mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 150IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, ensure your milk is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast. A cooking thermometer is recommended for accuracy. Fill the donuts with jam when they have cooled slightly to avoid leakage. Leftover donuts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day or frozen unfilled for up to 2 months. Reheat before filling.