Krafne - Croatian Delight

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour (500g)
• Active dry yeast (7g)
• Granulated sugar (70g plus extra for dusting)
• Salt (a pinch)
• Milk (250ml, warmed)
• Egg yolks (2)
• Unsalted butter (50g, melted)
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)
• Filling (Nutella, jam, or custard) (as needed)

Instructions

1. Combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
2. Mix in the warm milk, egg yolks, melted butter, and vanilla extract until a soft dough forms.
3. Gently knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Transfer the kneaded dough to a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/2 inch.
6. Cut out circles from the dough using a round cookie cutter or a glass.
7. Place a dollop of your chosen sweet filling in the center of each dough circle.
8. Fold the dough over the filling, sealing the edges firmly to form a half-moon shape.
9. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
10. Fry the filled doughnuts until they turn golden brown on both sides, around 2-3 minutes per side.
11. Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the Krafne from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
12. Dust the Krafne with powdered sugar before serving, and enjoy these delightful pastries warm or at room temperature.