Delectable Homemade Bismarks: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1/4 cup warm water (110°F to 115°F)
1 cup warm whole milk (110°F to 115°F)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Vegetable oil for deep-frying
1 cup raspberry jam
1 cup powdered sugar for dusting

Steps and instructions

In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Let stand for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Add the warm milk, granulated sugar, salt, eggs, melted butter, and half of the flour to the bowl. Beat until smooth.
Gradually add the remaining flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Punch down the dough and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Divide dough into small pieces and shape each into a ball.
Cover and let rise until doubled, about 30 minutes.
In a deep-fryer or large heavy pot, heat oil to 375°F. Fry doughnuts, a few at a time, until golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels.
When cool enough to handle, cut a small slit in each doughnut and fill with raspberry jam using a pastry or piping bag.
Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.

Tools for making

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix and knead the dough.
Whisk - To dissolve the yeast in warm water and mix the ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons - To accurately measure the ingredients.
Spatula - To scrape the sides of the bowl and mix the dough.
Flour Sifter - To sift the flour and remove any lumps.
Rolling Pin - To roll out the dough.
Deep-Fryer or Large Heavy Pot - To fry the doughnuts.
Slotted Spoon - To remove the fried doughnuts from the oil.
Pastry or Piping Bag - To fill the doughnuts with raspberry jam.
Paper Towels - To drain the fried doughnuts.
Powdered Sugar Shaker - To dust the doughnuts with powdered sugar.

Recipe variations

Use different flavored jams or preserves for filling, such as strawberry, blueberry, or apricot.
Add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra flavor.
Replace the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
Try using a different type of yeast, such as instant yeast or fresh yeast.
For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
Experiment with different toppings, like a glaze made with powdered sugar and milk or a chocolate ganache.
Add a filling of your choice, such as custard, chocolate spread, or peanut butter.
Instead of deep-frying, you can bake the doughnuts in the oven for a lighter option.
For a savory twist, omit the sugar and add herbs and spices to the dough. Fill with cheese, spinach, or other savory fillings.

Recipe overview

This recipe will guide you through the process of making traditional Bismarks, a delicious type of filled doughnut that is a favorite in many bakeries. These delightful treats begin with a rich, yeast-based dough that is deep-fried until golden brown, filled with a sweet raspberry jam, and then dusted with powdered sugar. You'll be surprised at how easy it is to make these bakery-worthy doughnuts at home. Expect your kitchen to be filled with the irresistible aroma of freshly fried dough, and anticipate the joy of biting into a perfectly fluffy Bismark with a sweet, fruity center. This recipe does require some time and patience, especially during the dough's rising periods, but the result is well worth the wait. Enjoy these Bismarks as a decadent breakfast treat or a delightful dessert.

Common questions

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast? Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast in this recipe. Use the same amount, but skip the step of dissolving the instant yeast in warm water. Simply add it directly to the other ingredients.
Can I use a different type of jam or filling? Absolutely! While the recipe suggests raspberry jam, you can use any type of jam or filling that you prefer. Feel free to experiment with different flavors to suit your taste.
How can I store the Bismarks? Bismarks are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. However, keep in mind that they may lose some of their freshness and texture over time.
Can I freeze the doughnuts? Yes, you can freeze the Bismarks before filling them with jam. Once fried and cooled, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw them at room temperature and then proceed with filling and dusting with powdered sugar.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? While you can substitute some whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, the texture and taste of the Bismarks may be slightly different. It's recommended to use a combination of whole wheat and all-purpose flour, rather than a full substitution, for the best results.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the dough ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons - To accurately measure the ingredients.
Whisk - To dissolve the yeast in warm water and mix the dough.
Bench Scraper or Dough Scraper - To help with kneading and shaping the dough.
Rolling Pin - To roll out the dough for shaping.
Deep-Fryer or Large Heavy Pot - For deep-frying the doughnuts.
Slotted Spoon or Tongs - To remove the fried doughnuts from the oil.
Pastry or Piping Bag - To fill the doughnuts with raspberry jam.
Paper Towels - To drain the fried doughnuts.
Sifter or Fine-Mesh Strainer - For dusting the doughnuts with powdered sugar.

Origin stories

Bismarks, also known as Berliners or jelly doughnuts, have a rather engaging history attached to them. Originating in Germany, these delightful pastries were often made as a special treat for the holiday season. Interestingly, it is believed that the hole in the middle of doughnuts was inspired by these filled pastries, when a baker decided that the dough wasn't cooking evenly. So, he poked a hole in the middle, creating the doughnut shape we are familiar with today. And while we relish these doughy delights today, it's captivating to know that the idea was born out of a simple cooking dilemma!

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.