When the Festival of Lights approaches, my thoughts naturally turn to the sweet, indulgent tradition of homemade Hanukkah jelly donuts, or sufganiyot. The moment I start mixing the dough, the kitchen fills with the intoxicating aroma of fried goodness, instantly transporting me to cozy family celebrations. There’s a unique joy in crafting these fluffy, golden donuts filled with your favorite jam—whether it’s tangy raspberry or sweet apricot, each bite is an explosion of flavor that captures the spirit of the season.
These delightful treats are more than just a dessert; they symbolize the miracle of oil and the warmth of togetherness. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring on your own, making sufganiyot is not just about the end result but the beautiful memories created in the process. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and celebrate Hanukkah with these irresistible sweet jelly donuts—your friends and family will be asking for seconds!
Why are Sweet Hanukkah Jelly Donuts a must-try?
Festive Tradition: These sufganiyot are not just delicious; they embody the spirit of Hanukkah, making them a cherished part of the celebration.
Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of sweet jam and fluffy dough creates a delightful burst of flavor that will leave everyone craving more.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs looking to bring a festive touch to their table.
Versatile Fillings: Get creative with your jam choices! Whether you prefer raspberry, strawberry, or even Nutella, it’s easy to customize to suit every palate.
Nostalgic Aroma: The smell of frying donuts will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather and celebrate the joy of the season together.
For more heartwarming recipes, check out our delightful collection of Hanukkah treats.
Sweet Hanukkah Jelly Donuts Ingredients
For the Dough
- Instant Dry Yeast – Key for leavening, helping the dough rise and become fluffy.
- Sugar – Sweetens the donuts and activates the yeast; using alternative sweeteners may alter texture.
- Warm Water – Activates the yeast; ensure it’s about 110°F (43°C) for best results.
- Egg Yolks – Adds richness and color; consider flaxseed meal as a vegan substitute.
- Milk – Keeps the dough moist; use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; optional if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; can substitute with gluten-free flour, though texture may differ.
- Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the dough.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and tenderness; margarine works for a dairy-free alternative.
- Vegetable Oil – Used for frying; can be substituted with canola or peanut oil based on preference.
For the Filling
- Jam (Raspberry, Strawberry, or Apricot) – Fills the donuts with sweetness; can use any thick jam or Nutella for a twist.
For the Finishing Touch
- Powdered Sugar – Dust over the donuts for a sweet finish; granulated sugar can substitute, though the texture will differ.
These Sweet Hanukkah Jelly Donuts are a delightful treat that everyone will adore—perfect for celebrating the spirit of the Festival of Lights!
How to Make Sweet Hanukkah Jelly Donuts
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Prepare the Dough: In a stand mixer, combine the instant dry yeast, sugar, and warm water. Whisk until dissolved, then add in egg yolks, milk, and vanilla. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a soft dough forms.
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Incorporate Butter: Add the softened unsalted butter in small pieces while mixing. Continue mixing for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is shiny and elastic.
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First Rise: Shape the dough into a ball and coat it lightly with oil. Cover with a cloth and let it rise in a warm area until doubled in size, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
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Roll and Cut: After the first rise, punch down the dough to release air. Roll it out to about ¼” thickness and cut out rounds using a dough cutter. Place the rounds on a lined baking sheet and cover again, letting them rise for 30 minutes.
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Heat Oil: In a heavy pot, heat 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F. Use a thermometer to keep the oil at the right temperature for frying.
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Fry Donuts: Gently place 4 donuts at a time into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown on each side, about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a wire rack to drain excess oil.
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Fill Donuts: Once the donuts are slightly cooled, use a piping bag to poke a hole and fill each with your chosen jam, whether it’s raspberry, strawberry, or apricot.
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Dust and Serve: Dust the filled donuts generously with powdered sugar and serve them warm for the best experience.
Optional: Drizzle with chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Sweet Hanukkah Jelly Donuts?
The perfect accompaniment elevates your festive spread and maximizes the joy of each bite.
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Latkes: These crispy potato pancakes are a classic Hanukkah side. Their savory flavor beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the sufganiyot.
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Apple Sauce: A tangy apple sauce offers a refreshing balance to the rich, fried donuts, making for a delightful taste experience.
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Hot Chocolate: Rich and creamy, a steaming cup of hot chocolate warms you up and complements the sweetness of the donuts wonderfully.
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Coffee: The bitter undertones of freshly brewed coffee enhance the sugary delight of the donuts, creating a perfect morning or afternoon treat.
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Rugelach: These flaky pastries, often filled with nuts and fruit, provide a delightful variety of texture and flavor, making for a sweet spread for any celebration.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Adding a drizzle of dark or milk chocolate over your donuts can elevate their indulgence and create a visually appealing presentation.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream beside your donuts creates a delectable dessert duo, combining warm and cold sensations in each bite.
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Citrus Salad: A vibrant salad of citrus fruits adds a fresh, zesty touch, balancing the richness of the donuts while refreshing your palate.
Each of these suggestions brings something unique to your Hanukkah celebration, ensuring that the sweetness of the sweet Hanukkah jelly donuts is balanced and cherished during your festivities.
Storage Tips for Sweet Hanukkah Jelly Donuts
Room Temperature: Store the donuts in an airtight container for up to 2 days to keep them fresh. Avoid exposure to air to maintain their softness.
Fridge: If you need the donuts to last a bit longer, the fridge is an option, but they may become a little denser. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sweet Hanukkah jelly donuts for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container to protect against freezer burn.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the donuts at room temperature or reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes until warm.
Sweet Hanukkah Jelly Donuts Variations
Feel free to mix things up and create your own delightful twists on these classic donuts!
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Citrus Zest: Add fresh orange or lemon zest to the dough for a bright, zesty flavor that complements the jam perfectly.
Infusing the dough with citrus not only enhances your donut but also brightens the entire holiday experience. -
Spiced Dough: Incorporate ground cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, aromatic kick that adds a festive flair.
This variation transforms the donuts into a holiday treat that fills your kitchen with a comforting fragrance. -
Nutella Filling: Swap out traditional jam for creamy Nutella to add a rich, chocolatey twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
With each bite, you’ll encounter smooth hazelnut chocolate, providing a wonderful surprise of flavor. -
Savory Surprise: For a unique take, try filling some donuts with savory options like pumpkin butter or a hint of goat cheese and herbs.
These donuts serve as a delightful appetizer that still captures the spirit of Hanukkah. -
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends to accommodate those with dietary restrictions.
Enjoy the same fluffy texture without compromising taste, so everyone can join in on the festivities. -
Top with Glaze: After frying, drench the donuts in a vanilla or chocolate glaze instead of powdered sugar for a decadent finish.
This creates a luscious layer that adds extra sweetness and elegance, making them perfect for any celebration. -
Jam Layering: Use a mix of jams—like raspberry and apricot—inside the same donut for a delightful surprise with each bite.
The twirling colors inside mimic a beautiful sunset, reflecting the joy and sweetness of the holiday. -
Explore Fillings: Venture beyond traditional jams and fill donuts with lemon curd, caramel sauce, or sweet cream cheese for a refreshing twist.
These unexpected fillings will offer new flavors that will impress and delight your family and friends during Hanukkah.
Make Ahead Options
These Sweet Hanukkah Jelly Donuts are perfect for busy cooks wanting to save time without sacrificing quality! You can prepare the donut dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe through the first rise, then shape the dough into a ball, coat it with oil, and cover it tightly. Refrigerate it overnight to slow down the rising process. When you’re ready to finish, let the dough come to room temperature before rolling and cutting it, allowing about 30 minutes for it to rise again. This makes it easy to enjoy fresh, homemade sufganiyot with minimal effort during the festive celebrations, ensuring they are just as fluffy and delicious!
Expert Tips for Sweet Hanukkah Jelly Donuts
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Temperature Matters: Ensure your oil reaches 350°F before frying to achieve perfectly crispy sweet Hanukkah jelly donuts; too hot can burn them outside, leaving them raw inside.
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Patience is Key: Allow the dough enough time to rise completely. Rushing this step will yield dense and heavy donuts rather than the light and fluffy texture you desire.
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Gentle Filling: When filling your donuts, use a slow and gentle hand with the piping bag to avoid tearing the delicate exterior.
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Jam Choices: Experiment with different jams for filling! Popular options like raspberry or apricot add uniqueness, but don’t shy away from using Nutella for a delightful twist.
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Dusting Delight: Dust your finished donuts with powdered sugar immediately after frying while they are still warm for a beautiful and sugary finish that will impress everyone.
Sweet Hanukkah Jelly Donuts Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ripeness of ingredients for the dough?
Absolutely! For the best results, ensure your ingredients are fresh. When selecting eggs, look for ones that are firm and not cracked. The milk should be fresh and within its expiration date. I recommend checking that your yeast is within its active date as well, as expired yeast won’t rise properly and can lead to dense donuts.
What is the best way to store the Sweet Hanukkah Jelly Donuts?
I often store the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature where they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 4 days. Just keep in mind, they may lose some fluffiness. For the best quality, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months, protecting against freezer burn.
How can I freeze the Sweet Hanukkah Jelly Donuts?
Freezing is a great option! First, let the donuts cool completely after frying. Then, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Very! If your dough isn’t rising, it might be due to the yeast being inactive or the water being too hot or too cold. For optimal rising, water should be around 110°F (43°C). If your dough hasn’t doubled after the recommended time, I suggest checking the yeast. If it’s expired, a quick fix is to warm another batch with fresh yeast to start over and incorporate it into the existing dough.
Are there any allergy considerations for Sweet Hanukkah Jelly Donuts?
Yes! These donuts may contain common allergens such as gluten from the flour, dairy from the butter and milk, and eggs. If you want to make them allergen-friendly, consider using gluten-free flour, plant-based milk (like almond or oat), and substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative. Always confirm your specific dietary needs and those of your guests.
Can I use other fillings besides jam for my Sufganiyot?
Absolutely! Get creative! While traditional fillings like raspberry, strawberry, or apricot jam are delicious, you can fill your donuts with Nutella for a chocolatey surprise, pumpkin butter for a seasonal twist, or even savory fillings for an unexpected flavor combination. The more the merrier when it comes to delightful fillings!
Sweet Hanukkah Jelly Donuts to Brighten Your Festival Celebrations
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a stand mixer, combine the instant dry yeast, sugar, and warm water. Whisk until dissolved, then add in egg yolks, milk, and vanilla. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a soft dough forms.
- Add the softened unsalted butter in small pieces while mixing. Continue mixing for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is shiny and elastic.
- Shape the dough into a ball and coat it lightly with oil. Cover with a cloth and let it rise in a warm area until doubled in size, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
- After the first rise, punch down the dough to release air. Roll it out to about ¼" thickness and cut out rounds using a dough cutter. Place the rounds on a lined baking sheet and cover again, letting them rise for 30 minutes.
- In a heavy pot, heat 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F. Use a thermometer to keep the oil at the right temperature for frying.
- Gently place 4 donuts at a time into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown on each side, about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a wire rack to drain excess oil.
- Once the donuts are slightly cooled, use a piping bag to poke a hole and fill each with your chosen jam.
- Dust the filled donuts generously with powdered sugar and serve them warm for the best experience.