As the sun sets and the flickering lights of the menorah dance in the air, there’s nothing quite as comforting as the sweet aroma of freshly fried donuts wafting through the home. These Classic Hanukkah Donuts, or sufganiyot, are more than just a festive treat—they’re a beloved tradition that evokes joy and nostalgia with every bite. When I first made these golden delights, I was surprised by how simple they were to prepare, yet they felt so special, perfect for sharing with family and friends during the celebrations.
With their fluffy texture and the option to fill them with luscious strawberry jam or even silky vanilla pastry cream, they add a touch of sweetness to each candle-lit evening. So, when the holiday season rolls around and you find yourself yearning for an indulgent dessert that brings everyone together, this recipe is the perfect solution. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to impress, let’s dive into creating these delectable donuts that are sure to become the highlight of your Hanukkah festivities!
Why are Classic Hanukkah Donuts a must-try?
Tradition Meets Flavor: These Classic Hanukkah Donuts are a delicious nod to holiday customs, bringing together family and friends with their sweetness.
Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a baking expert; the recipe is beginner-friendly and requires minimal skills.
Customizable Fillings: With options like strawberry jam or rich vanilla pastry cream, you can create a donut for every taste preference.
Memorable Experience: Frying donuts fills your home with an irresistible aroma that enhances the festive spirit.
Perfectly Light: The fluffy texture and airy design make these a delightful treat perfect for any occasion, not just Hanukkah!
Ideal for Sharing: Whip up a batch to share with loved ones, making these donuts the star of your holiday table.
Classic Hanukkah Donut Ingredients
For the Batter
- Oil (for deep frying) – Choose canola or vegetable oil for a neutral taste, essential for that crispy exterior.
- Powdered Sugar – Perfect for dusting, it adds a sweet touch and visual appeal to your Classic Hanukkah Donuts.
- Flour – Use all-purpose flour, which serves as the main structural component of the donuts.
- Fresh Yeast – This leavening agent gives the donuts their airy texture; you can substitute it with instant yeast if needed.
- Sugar – Enhances sweetness and is vital for activating the yeast.
- Warm Milk – Hydrates the flour and awakens the yeast; ensure it’s lukewarm (around 98–110°F) for optimal results.
- Soft Butter – Adds richness and tenderness to the dough, making each bite delightful.
- Eggs – Provides moisture and enriches the structure of the dough.
- Vanilla Extract – Infuses flavor into the batter; swap it out for almond extract if you’re looking for a different twist.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of your donuts.
For the Filling
- Strawberry Jam – This fruity filling complements the donuts beautifully; feel free to replace it with Nutella or pastry cream for variety.
For Optional Toppings
- Chocolate Coating – Drizzle or dip your donuts for an extra layer of indulgence.
- Fruit Purees – Serve with a variety of fruit purees for a fresh, creative twist.
How to Make Classic Hanukkah Donuts
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Combine Ingredients: In a mixer bowl, mix together the flour, fresh yeast, and sugar. Gradually add the lukewarm milk and softened butter while kneading until a sticky dough forms.
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Add Eggs and Flavor: Incorporate the eggs, vanilla extract, and salt into the dough mixture. Knead for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and slightly sticky.
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Let It Rise: Transfer the dough to a greased bowl and cover it with a cloth. Allow it to rise at room temperature for 1 hour until doubled in size, then refrigerate for an additional hour or overnight.
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Shape the Donuts: Divide the risen dough into 15 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and let them rise on the counter until they double in size again.
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Fry the Donuts: Heat oil in a deep pot to 320–340°F (160–170°C). Fry the donuts for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn a golden brown.
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Fill with Jam: Once fried, remove the donuts from the oil and poke a hole in each. Fill with strawberry jam using a piping bag, then dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.
Optional: Serve warm for a delightful experience that enhances the festive spirit!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Classic Hanukkah Donuts?
As you prepare to delight your family with these tempting, warm treats, consider pairing them with sides that enhance the festive spirit.
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Creamy Hot Cocoa: The rich, velvety texture of hot cocoa complements the sweetness of donuts, creating a cozy treat for chilly evenings.
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Festive Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the rich, fried donuts beautifully while offering a burst of natural sweetness.
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Rich Coffee: A classic pairing, the bold notes of coffee are perfect with the sweetness of filled donuts, making each bite even more satisfying.
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Homemade Whipped Cream: Offering a light, airy topping, whipped cream enhances the experience by adding a fluffy richness that pairs wonderfully with any filling.
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Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For those craving extra indulgence, a warm chocolate dip transforms each bite into a decadent treat, perfect for festive gatherings.
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Sweet Pastry Cream: This luscious filling can be served alongside or within your donuts, offering a creamy texture that elevates the tasting experience.
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Traditional Latkes: For a true Hanukkah feast, serve classic potato pancakes alongside your donuts for a full meal experience that celebrates the holiday’s traditions.
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Spiced Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced cider will complement the donuts beautifully, adding an aromatic touch that enhances the festive atmosphere.
Classic Hanukkah Donut Variations
Feel free to add your own twist to these delightful treats; your creativity will elevate each bite!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk and coconut oil for a non-dairy version that’s just as delicious.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a celiac-friendly option; ensure it’s designed for baking.
- Chocolate Lovers: Fill with Nutella or a rich chocolate ganache for a dreamy dessert that satisfies sweet cravings.
- Fruity Twist: Use blueberry or raspberry jam instead of strawberry for a burst of berry flavor with each bite.
- Spiced Up: Add ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm spice flavor that complements the sweetness beautifully.
- Savory Surprise: For an adventurous twist, fill with a zesty cream cheese mixture and a sprinkle of herbs; perfect for a unique holiday treat.
- Tasty Toppings: Experiment with toppings like crushed pistachios, toasted coconut, or flavored icing for added texture and flair.
- Zesty Glaze: Drizzle with a lemon or orange glaze to add a refreshing citrus note that brightens the flavor profile.
These simple variations invite you to play with flavors and textures, making your Classic Hanukkah Donuts a truly personalized celebration!
Make Ahead Options
These Classic Hanukkah Donuts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply let it rise, then refrigerate it overnight for optimal flavor. When you’re ready to complete the recipe, divide the dough into balls, let them rise until doubled, and fry them fresh for the best texture. Additionally, you can also fill the donuts with your choice of strawberry jam or other fillings just before serving, ensuring they taste just as delightful as if made the same day. This prep-ahead approach not only makes holiday cooking easier but guarantees your donuts will be a hit at any celebration!
Expert Tips for Classic Hanukkah Donuts
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh yeast for the best rise and fluffiness; old yeast may lead to flat and dense donuts.
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your oil is at the right temperature (320–340°F) to avoid greasy donuts and achieve a perfect golden color.
- Don’t Over-Knead: Knead the dough just until smooth; overly working it can lead to tough donuts, detracting from that fluffy texture.
- Perfect Filling: Use a piping bag for filling to make it neat and easy. Experiment with different fillings to suit your taste.
- Serving Fresh: Enjoy your Classic Hanukkah Donuts immediately after frying for the best flavor and texture—there’s nothing like fresh!
Storage Tips for Classic Hanukkah Donuts
Room Temperature: Store unfilled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their softness.
Fridge: If filled, keep the donuts in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; this helps preserve the jam and prevents spoilage.
Freezer: Freeze unfilled donuts in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, fry them fresh for the best taste.
Reheating: To reheat, pop your donuts in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, bringing back that crispy exterior while warming the inside perfectly.
Classic Hanukkah Donuts Recipe FAQs
What kind of oil should I use for frying?
Absolutely! For frying your Classic Hanukkah Donuts, I recommend using canola or vegetable oil. These oils have a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, ensuring your donuts achieve that perfect crispy exterior without any unwanted flavors.
How should I store my donuts after frying?
For the best experience, store unfilled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’ve filled them, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. Just be sure to seal them well to avoid drying out!
Can I freeze unfilled donuts?
Yes, you can! Freeze unfilled donuts by placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply heat your oil and fry them fresh for a delightful treat that feels like it just came out of the fryer.
What should I do if the dough doesn’t rise properly?
Very! If your dough isn’t rising as expected, first check the freshness of your yeast. If it’s old, it won’t activate properly. Make sure your milk is just warm (98–110°F) and not too hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast. To encourage rising, place the dough in a warm, draft-free area, and cover it with a damp cloth to retain moisture.
Are these donuts suitable for people with allergies?
When making Classic Hanukkah Donuts, be mindful of common allergens. They contain gluten (from flour), dairy (from milk and butter), and eggs. For gluten-free options, you can use a blend of gluten-free flours, and replace dairy with plant-based alternatives. Always consult specific allergy guidelines and consider the fillings used, especially if they contain nuts.
Classic Hanukkah Donuts: Warm, Fluffy, and Jam-Filled Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixer bowl, mix together the flour, fresh yeast, and sugar. Gradually add the lukewarm milk and softened butter while kneading until a sticky dough forms.
- Incorporate the eggs, vanilla extract, and salt into the dough mixture. Knead for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and slightly sticky.
- Transfer the dough to a greased bowl and cover it with a cloth. Allow it to rise at room temperature for 1 hour until doubled in size, then refrigerate for an additional hour or overnight.
- Divide the risen dough into 15 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and let them rise on the counter until they double in size again.
- Heat oil in a deep pot to 320–340°F (160–170°C). Fry the donuts for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn a golden brown.
- Once fried, remove the donuts from the oil and poke a hole in each. Fill with strawberry jam using a piping bag, then dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.