Bomboloni, or Italian cream-filled donuts, are pillowy-soft, sugar-dusted treats with a rich pastry cream filling. Originating from Italian bakeries, these delightful donuts can be customized with various fillings like chocolate, fruit jam, or Nutella, making them a versatile and irresistible dessert.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Bomboloni Dough:

2 cups strong bread flour (280 g)
2 cups 00 flour or all-purpose flour (280 g)
3 large eggs, at room temperature
6.5 tbsp butter (90 g), softened
½ cup granulated sugar (100 g)
½ cup lukewarm milk (120 ml)
½ tsp vanilla paste or 1 tsp vanilla extract
2 ¼ tsp fast-action yeast (7 g)
1 small pinch of salt
2–3 tbsp caster or confectioners’ sugar (for rolling)
Sunflower or vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Pastry Cream (optional):

5 egg yolks
2.5 cups milk (½ liter)
¼ cup cornstarch (30 g)
⅓ cup sugar (70 g)
½ tsp vanilla paste or 1 vanilla bean
Zest of 1 lemon

Directions

1. Make the Bomboloni Dough:

In a stand mixer bowl, combine both flours, sugar, and yeast. Stir to blend.
Add softened butter, eggs, lukewarm milk, vanilla, and salt. Mix with a dough hook at low speed for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Transfer the dough to a clean surface, knead 2–3 times into a ball, and place in a lightly greased bowl. Cover and let rise for 2–3 hours until tripled in size.
Punch down the risen dough, knead briefly, and roll into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.
Use a cookie cutter to cut out circles. Place on parchment-lined trays, cover, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours.

2. Fry the Bomboloni:

Heat oil in a deep pot to 170°C (337°F).
Cut the parchment around each dough circle and gently place into the oil. Remove parchment with tongs.
Fry for 2 minutes per side until golden. Transfer to paper towels to drain, then roll in sugar while still warm.

3. Make the Pastry Cream (Optional):

Whisk egg yolks, sugar, vanilla, lemon zest, and cornstarch in a bowl.
Heat milk until hot but not boiling. Slowly whisk milk into the egg mixture.
Return to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (10–15 minutes). Cool completely before using.

4. Fill the Bomboloni:

Use a knife to make a small incision on each donut’s side.
Pipe the pastry cream (or desired filling) into the donuts.

5. Serve:

Enjoy immediately or store in a sealed container for up to 1–2 days.

Nutrients

Serving Size: 1 bombolone (approximate values)

Calories: 250 kcal
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Protein: 6 g
Fat: 10 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Cholesterol: 60 mg
Sodium: 60 mg
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 12 g

These Italian donuts are a perfect indulgence, bringing the authentic flavors of Italy to your table. Buon appetito!

The History of Bomboloni

Bomboloni originate from Italy, where they are particularly popular in regions like Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna. The name “bomboloni” is derived from the Italian word bomba, meaning “bomb,” which perfectly describes their round, puffy shape and explosion of flavor. Traditionally sold at bakeries and street stalls, Bomboloni have become synonymous with Italian comfort food.

These donuts are enjoyed throughout the day, often paired with an espresso or cappuccino. While they are commonly filled with pastry cream, modern variations include Nutella, fruit preserves, and even savory fillings, making them a versatile treat for any occasion.

What Makes Bomboloni Special?

Pillowy Soft Dough

The dough for Bomboloni is enriched with butter, eggs, and milk, resulting in a rich and tender texture. The use of strong bread flour, combined with 00 flour or all-purpose flour, ensures the donuts are light yet sturdy enough to hold their filling. A long proofing time gives the dough a subtle depth of flavor and an airy crumb.

Customizable Fillings

While pastry cream is the classic filling, Bomboloni are incredibly versatile. Fill them with:

Nutella: For a chocolatey indulgence.
Fruit Jam: Raspberry, apricot, or strawberry jam add a fruity sweetness.
Lemon Curd: A tangy twist that balances the sweetness of the sugar coating.
Savory Options: Cheese or herbed ricotta for a unique appetizer.

Golden and Crisp Exterior

Fried to perfection, Bomboloni have a golden-brown crust that contrasts beautifully with their soft interior. Rolling them in sugar while warm adds a delightful crunch and sweetness with every bite.

The Perfect Pastry Cream

The pastry cream used in traditional Bomboloni is a standout element. Made with egg yolks, milk, sugar, and cornstarch, it’s luxuriously creamy and infused with vanilla and lemon zest for added flavor. When piped into the warm donuts, the cream creates a perfect balance of richness and lightness.

Pastry cream is a versatile component that can be flavored to suit personal preferences. Add a splash of espresso for a mocha version, or mix in melted chocolate for a decadent twist. For those looking for a simpler option, store-bought custard or pudding can also be used.

Why Bomboloni Stand Out

A Global Favorite

While Bomboloni are quintessentially Italian, they share similarities with other international treats like American donuts, French beignets, and Polish pączki. This familiarity, combined with their unique Italian flair, makes them universally loved.

Versatile and Customizable

Bomboloni can be tailored to suit different tastes and occasions. From breakfast tables to dessert spreads, their adaptability ensures they’re always a hit. Experimenting with fillings and toppings allows for endless creativity.

Festive and Elegant

These sugar-dusted donuts are as visually appealing as they are delicious. Their golden hue and customizable fillings make them perfect for special occasions, whether served at a brunch, wedding, or holiday gathering.

Tips for Making Perfect Bomboloni

Proofing Matters: Allow the dough to rise properly to achieve a light and airy texture. Be patient, as the flavors develop during the proofing process.
Oil Temperature: Maintain a steady frying temperature of 170°C (337°F) to ensure even cooking. Too hot, and the donuts will brown too quickly; too cool, and they’ll absorb excess oil.
Sugar Coating: Roll the Bomboloni in sugar while they’re still warm to ensure the coating sticks evenly.
Filling Techniques: Use a piping bag with a long nozzle for easy filling. Poke a small hole in the side of the donut and fill until you feel slight resistance.
Serve Fresh: Bomboloni are best enjoyed fresh and warm. While they can be stored for a day or two, their texture is most delightful shortly after frying.

Serving Suggestions

Bomboloni are versatile and can be served in various ways to suit the occasion:

Breakfast or Brunch: Pair them with a cup of cappuccino or latte for a classic Italian morning treat.
Dessert: Serve them warm with a dusting of powdered sugar alongside a scoop of gelato.
Party Snacks: Arrange Bomboloni with an assortment of fillings for a fun, interactive dessert table.
Gifting: Pack them in a box with decorative wrapping as a sweet gift for loved ones.

Cultural Significance

Bomboloni hold a special place in Italian culture, often associated with celebrations and moments of indulgence. Whether enjoyed at a bustling street fair or shared at a family gathering, these donuts evoke a sense of nostalgia and joy. Their presence at events like Carnivals and Christmas markets highlights their festive appeal.

A Universal Treat

While Bomboloni have their roots in Italy, their appeal transcends borders. Similar treats are found worldwide, each with its unique twist. In France, beignets are dusted with powdered sugar, while in the U.S., filled donuts come in countless variations. Despite these differences, the universal love for fried, filled dough unites cultures and palates.

Conclusion

Bomboloni are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of Italian culinary artistry. With their soft, pillowy dough, delightful fillings, and sugar-dusted exterior, these cream-filled donuts capture the essence of indulgence. Whether you’re recreating them at home or enjoying them at an Italian bakery, Bomboloni are guaranteed to bring joy with every bite.

Their versatility, ease of customization, and undeniable charm make them a must-try treat for any occasion. From traditional pastry cream to modern Nutella or fruit jam fillings, Bomboloni offer endless possibilities to satisfy your sweet cravings. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the art of Italian baking, and savor the magic of Bomboloni. Buon appetito!