Description
Discover the joy of making Strawberry Bombs, a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the lightness of whipped cream, all wrapped in a golden, fried dough. Perfect for any occasion, these pastries are sure to impress and satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients
- 300g (2 cups) flour
- 1 egg
- 45g (1/4 cup) sugar
- A pinch of salt
- 7g dry yeast
- 140 ml (3/5 cup) hot milk
- 40 g (1/4 cup) softened butter
- For decoration:
- Whipped cream
- Strawberries, chopped
- Granulated sugar
Instructions
Prepare the Dough: Begin by combining sugar, yeast, and warm milk in a medium bowl; stir well to dissolve. Add the egg, then gradually mix in the flour and salt. Start kneading with a spatula until the mixture begins to come together, then switch to kneading with your hands until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Incorporate the Butter: Work the softened butter into the dough, continuing to knead until the butter is fully incorporated and the dough is smooth, shiny, and elastic.
First Rise: Shape the dough into a ball, cover with a tea towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Form the Balls: Once the dough has risen, divide it into 8 equal parts. Roll each part into a smooth ball, cover, and let them rest for 30 minutes to allow the dough to relax.
Shape and Second Rise: Gently flatten each ball, then roll it into a ball again for a uniform shape. Cover and let them have a second rise for another 30 minutes, ensuring they’re well-puffed up before frying.
Frying: Heat oil in a deep fryer or a deep pan to a moderate temperature (about 350°F or 175°C). Fry the dough balls in batches, turning them occasionally, for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan.
Assemble the Strawberry Bombs: Let the fried dough balls cool slightly, then cut each in half lengthwise, similar to a burger bun. Fill the bottom half with whipped cream and chopped strawberries, then gently place the top half back on. Sprinkle with granulated sugar for a sweet finish.
Serving: Serve the Strawberry Bombs fresh and warm for the best taste and texture. They’re perfect as a sweet treat at any time of the day.
Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Bombs, a treat that’s sure to delight everyone with its sweet, creamy, and fruity flavors, all wrapped up in a light and fluffy fried dough.
Notes
Tips for Perfect Strawberry Bombs:
- Dough Consistency: Achieving the right dough consistency is key. It should be elastic and smooth but not sticky. If your dough is too sticky, add a little more flour; if too dry, add a bit more milk.
- Yeast Activation: Ensure your milk is warm (not hot) to activate the yeast without killing it. The ideal temperature is around 105°F to 115°F (40°C to 46°C).
- Rising Time: Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area. If your kitchen is cool, you can let the dough rise in an oven with the light on for warmth.
- Frying Temperature: Keeping the oil at the correct temperature (around 350°F or 175°C) is crucial for frying. Too hot, and the bombs will brown too quickly without cooking through. Too cool, and they’ll absorb too much oil, becoming greasy.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve Strawberry Bombs fresh and warm for the best texture and flavor. They’re best enjoyed the day they are made.
Notes:
- Strawberry Preparation: Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture. Chop them into small pieces to ensure they blend well with the whipped cream and fit inside the dough pockets.
- Cream Choice: Opt for full-fat whipped cream for a richer taste and firmer texture that holds up well inside the fried dough.
- Sugar Adjustment: Adjust the amount of granulated sugar sprinkled on top according to your sweetness preference. Alternatively, dust with powdered sugar for a finer finish.
- Healthier Variation: For a lighter version, consider baking the dough balls in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) until golden brown, instead of frying. Keep in mind that baking will alter the texture slightly.
By following these tips and notes, you’ll enhance your Strawberry Bombs, making them a surefire hit for any occasion. Happy baking!