Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey through Ukrainian culinary tradition with Pampushky - the most heavenly, cloud-like doughnuts you'll ever taste! These golden, pillowy delights are not just a dessert; they're a celebration of flavor, texture, and generations of baking wisdom passed down through Ukrainian kitchens. Whether you're a pastry enthusiast or a curious food adventurer, these homemade doughnuts will transport you straight to the heart of Eastern European comfort food.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Ukrainian
Serves: 12 doughnuts
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 egg
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Filling of choice (jam, custard, etc.)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm milk (around 110°F). Add a pinch of sugar and let sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy and active.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center and add the melted butter, egg, and activated yeast mixture.
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly using a wooden spoon or stand mixer with a dough hook until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the risen dough and roll out on a floured surface to approximately 1/2 inch thickness. Cut out circular shapes using a round cookie cutter or glass.
- Place the cut dough circles on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let rise again for 30 minutes.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F. Carefully fry the doughnuts in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove doughnuts and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Allow to cool slightly.
- Using a piping bag or small knife, create a small hole in the side of each doughnut and fill with your chosen filling - jam, custard, or cream.
- Optional: Dust the filled doughnuts with powdered sugar or roll in granulated sugar while still warm.
- Serve immediately and enjoy these traditional Ukrainian raised doughnuts!
Tips
- Temperature is key: Ensure your yeast activation milk is precisely between 105-110°F for optimal rising.
- Knead with patience: Don't rush the dough kneading process - a full 8-10 minutes develops the perfect gluten structure.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area like a turned-off oven with the light on.
- Use a candy thermometer to maintain consistent oil temperature at 350°F for even frying.
- Fill doughnuts while they're still slightly warm for the best absorption and flavor.
- Experiment with fillings - from traditional jam to modern custard or even chocolate cream!
- For a professional touch, use a piping bag with a narrow tip for precise filling.
- Serve immediately for the ultimate crispy-soft texture experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 140kcal
Carbohydrates: 21g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 25mg
