Dough Preparation

1. Activate Yeast

In a small saucepan, warm the whole milk over low heat until it's warm to the touch but not boiling. Remove from heat and sprinkle the active dry yeast over the milk. Add 1 tablespoon of sugar, stir gently, and let sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.

2. Mix Dough Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture, eggs, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until a soft dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm area until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.

Filling Preparation

4. Prepare Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined. Set aside in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Frying Bombolini

5. Heat Oil

In a deep pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can use a thermometer to check the temperature or drop a small piece of dough into the oil to see if it bubbles.

6. Shape Bombolini

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch thick. Cut out circles using a round cutter or glass. Gather scraps, reroll, and cut more circles until all dough is used.

7. Fry Bombolini

Carefully drop the dough circles into the hot oil, frying in batches. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove and drain on paper towels.

Coating & Filling

8. Coat in Sugar

In a shallow bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Roll the warm bombolini in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until well coated.

9. Fill Bombolini

Using a piping bag fitted with a small round tip, fill each bombolino with the ricotta filling through a hole made in the side. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Bombolini Recipe

Recipe information

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