Hanukkah Sufganiyot with Strawberry Jam: A Festive Delight
G’day and welcome, friends! I’m Chloe, and I’m absolutely thrilled to share this recipe with you today. We’re diving headfirst into the joy of Hanukkah with some incredibly delicious Hanukkah sufganiyot with strawberry jam. These aren’t just doughnuts; they’re little bites of pure festive cheer! For me, the aroma of these sweet treats baking always brings back wonderful memories. Making them feels like a warm hug from my kitchen to yours. They’re the perfect way to light up your menorah and your taste buds during the Festival of Lights. So, grab your apron, and let’s make some magic together!
Why You’ll Love These Hanukkah Sufganiyot with Strawberry Jam
These doughnuts are a winner for so many reasons! Get ready to fall in love:
- They have the most wonderfully fluffy and light texture.
- Each bite is a delightful burst of sweet strawberry jam.
- They are the absolute perfect treat for your Hanukkah celebrations.
- You’ll find they are surprisingly simple to make right in your own kitchen.
Gather Your Ingredients for Hanukkah Sufganiyot with Strawberry Jam
Alright, let’s get our ducks in a row for these delightful Hanukkah sufganiyot with strawberry jam! Having everything prepped makes the whole process so much smoother. I’ve learned that a little organization goes a long way in the kitchen. It means less stress and more joy as we bake. Think of this as gathering your treasure before embarking on a delicious adventure!
Essential Doughnut Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create that perfect, fluffy doughnut base:
- 1 cup warm milk (aim for 105-115F or 40-46C – think cozy bathwater temperature!)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar, divided (we’ll use some now, some later)
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature (this helps them mix in beautifully)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus some extra for dusting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (let it sit out for a bit!)
Filling and Finishing Touches
Now for the sweet center and that classic finish:
- 1 cup strawberry jam (your favorite kind will do!)
- Vegetable oil, for frying (enough to fill your pot about 3 inches deep)
- Powdered sugar, for that lovely snowy dusting
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hanukkah Sufganiyot with Strawberry Jam
Now for the fun part – let’s bring these delicious sufganiyot to life! I promise, it’s more enjoyable than you might think. Think of it as a little culinary adventure. Each step is designed to help you create those perfect, fluffy doughnuts. Don’t worry if it’s your first time; I’ll be right here with you. We’re making memories, one doughnut at a time!
Preparing the Dough
First things first, let’s get our dough started. In a big bowl, I mix together the warm milk, your yeast, and just a tablespoon of sugar. It’s important the milk is warm, not hot – around 105-115F is spot on. Too hot and it’ll kill the yeast. We let this sit for about 5 to 10 minutes. You’ll see it get all foamy and bubbly. That’s a good sign the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!
Next, I whisk in the rest of that sugar, the two room-temperature eggs, the vanilla extract, and the salt. Give it a good mix until it’s all combined. Then, we gradually add the flour. I usually add it a cup at a time. Mix it until it starts to come together into a shaggy dough. It might look a bit messy, and that’s okay!
Now, it’s time for the softened butter. Add it right into the dough. Mix it all up until the butter is mostly incorporated. The dough will feel a bit sticky at this stage. I turn the dough out onto my counter, which I’ve lightly floured. Then, I knead it for about 8 to 10 minutes. You’re looking for a dough that’s smooth and elastic. It should feel soft and springy when you poke it.
First Rise and Shaping
Once your dough is beautifully smooth, place it in a lightly greased bowl. I just give the bowl a quick wipe with a little oil. Cover the bowl with a clean tea towel or some plastic wrap. Now, we find a warm spot for it to rise. This usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s doubled in size. It’s like a little doughy miracle!
When it’s ready, gently punch down the dough. This releases the air. Then, turn it out onto your floured surface again. Roll it out to about half an inch thick. I use a 3-inch round cutter for this. You can also use a glass if you don’t have a cutter. Place the cut circles onto a floured baking sheet. Make sure they have a little space between them. Cover them loosely with a towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes. This second rise makes them extra fluffy.

Second Rise and Frying
While those doughnuts are having their second little nap, it’s time to get our frying station ready. I pour about 3 inches of vegetable oil into a deep pot or Dutch oven. I heat it up to 350F (175C). Using a thermometer is really helpful here to get the temperature just right. You don’t want the oil too hot, or the outside will burn before the inside cooks.
Carefully place a few doughnuts into the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the pot! This is super important for even cooking. Fry them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a lovely golden-brown color. They puff up beautifully as they fry. Once they’re golden, use a slotted spoon to lift them out. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. They smell amazing at this stage!

Filling and Finishing Your Hanukkah Sufganiyot with Strawberry Jam
Once the doughnuts are cool enough to handle, but still a little warm, it’s time for the best part! I like to use a piping bag fitted with a small, thin nozzle for this. You can also use a small spoon or even a squeeze bottle. Gently poke the nozzle into the side of each doughnut and carefully inject about 1 to 2 tablespoons of strawberry jam. You can add more or less, depending on how much jam you love inside!
Finally, for that classic look and taste, we dust them generously with powdered sugar. A nice, thick coating makes them look so festive. It’s like a snowy blanket for your delicious sufganiyot. Serve them warm, and watch everyone’s eyes light up!

Tips for Perfect Hanukkah Sufganiyot with Strawberry Jam
Making these beautiful Hanukkah sufganiyot with strawberry jam is so rewarding! Over the years, I’ve picked up a few little tricks that really help ensure they turn out just right. These aren’t complicated secrets, just little things that make a big difference. Think of them as friendly nudges from my kitchen to yours to help you achieve doughnut perfection.
- Make sure your milk is warm, not hot. Too cool and the yeast won’t wake up; too hot and it’ll shock them. Aim for that cozy bathwater temperature (105-115F or 40-46C).
- Using room temperature eggs and butter makes a world of difference. They blend into the dough so much more smoothly, creating a better texture.
- When frying, resist the urge to cram too many doughnuts into the pot at once. Giving them space allows the oil to maintain its temperature and ensures each doughnut gets evenly golden and cooked through.
- Always test your oil temperature before adding the doughnuts. If it’s not hot enough, they’ll soak up oil and be greasy. If it’s too hot, they’ll burn on the outside before the inside is cooked. A candy thermometer is your best friend here!

Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Jam Doughnuts
Got questions about making these delightful strawberry jam doughnuts? I’ve got answers! It’s totally normal to wonder about a few things when you’re baking something new. Here are some common queries I get about these festive treats.
Can I use a different type of jam?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for strawberry jam, feel free to get creative. Raspberry, apricot, or even a tart cherry jam would be delicious. Just make sure it’s not too runny. For other jam ideas, check out these apricot jam or raspberry jelly recipes.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough?
The best way is to use a thermometer and aim for 350F (175C). If you don’t have one, you can test it by dropping a tiny piece of dough into the oil. If it sizzles and floats to the top right away, it’s ready! For more on safe frying techniques, you can consult resources on deep-fat frying safety.
Can these be made ahead of time?
Sufganiyot are best enjoyed fresh, ideally the same day they are made. However, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it. Then, shape and fry them the next day. They can be stored at room temperature for a day, but they might lose some of their fluffiness.
Storing and Reheating Your Delicious Sufganiyot
Even though these Hanukkah sufganiyot with strawberry jam are often gobbled up in one sitting, you might find yourself with a few leftovers. Don’t worry, they’ll still be a treat! For the best texture, I like to store them at room temperature. Just pop them into an airtight container. They’re usually lovely for a day or two.
If you want to reheat them to bring back a little of that fresh-from-the-fryer warmth, I’ve got a little trick. A few seconds in a warm oven or even a microwave can do the trick. Just be careful not to overheat them, or they can become tough. They’re perfect with a cup of tea or coffee the next morning!
Estimated Nutritional Information for Hanukkah Sufganiyot with Strawberry Jam
Please remember that this nutritional information is an estimate. Actual values can vary based on ingredient brands and exact preparation. Enjoy these delightful treats!
Serving Size: 1 doughnut
Calories: Approx. 300-350
Carbohydrates: Approx. 35-40g
Fat: Approx. 15-20g
Protein: Approx. 4-5g
PrintSweet Hanukkah Sufganiyot with Strawberry Jam: 10 Delights
Learn how to make delicious, fluffy Hanukkah Sufganiyot filled with sweet strawberry jam. These traditional doughnuts are a festive treat perfect for celebrating the Festival of Lights. Chloe from Finding My Sunday Flavor guides you through each step with warmth and enthusiasm, making your baking experience joyful.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 doughnuts
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Jewish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (105-115F or 40-46C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1 cup strawberry jam
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Whisk in the remaining sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
- Add the softened butter and mix until incorporated.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and roll it to about 1/2-inch thickness.
- Cut out circles using a 3-inch round cutter.
- Place the circles on a floured baking sheet, cover loosely, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven to 350F (175C).
- Fry the doughnuts in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Once slightly cooled, use a piping bag to inject each doughnut with strawberry jam.
- Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Ensure your milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
- Room temperature eggs incorporate better into the dough.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot when frying; this ensures even cooking and browning.
- Adjust the amount of jam injected to your preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 doughnut
- Calories: Approx. 300-350 (estimate)
- Sugar: Approx. 20-25g (estimate)
- Sodium: Approx. 150-200mg (estimate)
- Fat: Approx. 15-20g (estimate)
- Saturated Fat: Approx. 5-7g (estimate)
- Unsaturated Fat: Approx. 10-13g (estimate)
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 35-40g (estimate)
- Fiber: Approx. 1-2g (estimate)
- Protein: Approx. 4-5g (estimate)
- Cholesterol: Approx. 50-60mg (estimate)

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