Lunch: Sufganiyot

Because they are fried in oil, these jelly doughnuts are a traditional dessert for Hanukkah.

Ingredients

1 scant tablespoon active dry yeast
2 1/2 c. all-purpose flour
3/4 c. sugar
1/2 c. sugar
1 pinch salt
2 tbsp. margarine or unsalted butter
1/4 c. raspberry or strawberry jam or jelly
3/4 c. warm water (about 110 degrees)
2 large eggs
peanut oil

Instructions

In a large bowl, stir together the warm water and yeast. Let stand until foamy, about 5 minutes. Add 3/4 cup flour, 1/4 cup sugar, and salt; mix until well combined. Add egg yolks and remaining 1 3/4 cups flour. Mix until combined, then knead dough in bowl until all flour is incorporated. Turn out onto a lightly floured work surface; knead a few minutes until smooth. Knead in margarine until incorporated.
Transfer dough to a well-oiled bowl, turning several times to coat entirely with oil. Cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight.
Bring dough to room temperature, about 30 minutes. On a lightly floured work surface, roll out dough into an 11-inch square, about 1/4 inch thick. Cut out about 24 (2-inch) rounds. Reroll scraps; cut out about 16 more rounds.
Line a baking sheet with a clean kitchen towel. In a small bowl, lightly beat egg whites. Brush edge of a dough round with egg white, then mound 1/2 teaspoon jam in center. Top with another round; press edges to seal. Repeat with remaining rounds. Transfer to prepared baking sheet; let rise until puffy, 20 to 30 minutes.
Heat 3 inches of oil in a large, heavy pot until it reaches 360 degrees F on a deep-fry thermometer. Working in batches of 4 or 5, slip doughnuts into hot oil. Fry, turning once, until golden brown, about 1 minute. Using a slotted spoon, transfer doughnuts to paper towels to drain.
While doughnuts are still hot, dip them in remaining 1/2 cup sugar, turning to coat. Serve immediately. Looking for more dessert ideas? Check out our homemade chocolate chip cookie recipes, apple pie recipes, and chocolate cake recipes.