Introduction
Experience a delightful fusion of flavors with these Melktert Bombs. Enjoy the light, fluffy dough puffed to perfection and filled with a luscious blend of condensed milk and creamy custard. Perfectly rolled in cinnamon sugar, these treats promise a sweet indulgence reminiscent of the beloved South African Melktert.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Dough:
250 g cake flour
10 g baking powder
2.5 g salt
25 g sugar
120 ml milk
30 ml melted butter
Oil for frying
Filling:
200 ml condensed milk
120 ml custard (store-bought or homemade)
Coating:
Cinnamon sugar (mix of cinnamon and sugar to taste)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Approximately 12 puffs
Directions
1. In a large bowl, combine cake flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
2. Stir in milk and melted butter to form a soft dough.
3. Roll dough into small balls, approximately the size of golf balls.
4. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to about 180°C (350°F).
5. Carefully drop the dough balls into the hot oil and fry until they are golden brown on all sides.
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Allow to cool slightly.
7. For the filling, mix condensed milk and custard in a bowl until smooth.
8. Once doughnut puffs are cool enough to handle, use a piping bag with a nozzle to inject the filling into each doughnut puff.
9. Roll the filled doughnut puffs in cinnamon sugar until fully coated.
10. Serve warm for the best experience.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine 250 g of cake flour, 10 g of baking powder, 2.5 g of salt, and 25 g of sugar. The dry ingredients should be mixed thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors and rising agents.
Add Wet Ingredients
Stir in 120 ml of milk and 30 ml of melted butter to form a soft and slightly sticky dough. The mixture will start to come together, releasing a delightful aroma of fresh butter.
Shape the Dough
Roll the dough into small balls, approximately the size of golf balls. Take time to ensure they’re evenly sized for consistent cooking.
Heat the Oil
In a deep fryer or a large saucepan, heat oil to about 180°C (350°F). The oil should shimmer and bubble slightly when it’s ready, releasing a warm, inviting scent that beckons you to start frying.
Deep Fry the Dough Balls
Carefully drop the dough balls into the hot oil. Fry until they are golden brown on all sides, monitoring closely to avoid burning. The dough should puff up beautifully, with a crispy exterior and a soft inside.
Drain the Puffs
Once golden, remove the puffs from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. Allow them to cool slightly; the aroma of fried dough can be enticing!
Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, mix 200 ml of condensed milk and 120 ml of custard until smooth. The result should have a rich, creamy texture that tempts you to take a spoonful.
Fill the Doughnut Puffs
When the doughnut puffs are cool enough to handle, use a piping bag fitted with a nozzle to inject the prepared filling into each puff. Each puff should feel heavy with the delicious creamy filling inside.
Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
Roll the filled doughnut puffs in a mixture of cinnamon sugar until they are fully coated. The sweet and spicy scent of cinnamon will envelop your kitchen, enhancing the overall experience.
Serve
Enjoy the Melktert Bombs while they are still warm, allowing the flavors to burst with every bite. The crispy exterior gives way to the soft, fluffy interior packed with creamy goodness.
Notes
Oil Temperature
Make sure to maintain the oil temperature at around 180°C (350°F) for optimal frying results. If the oil is too cool, the puffs may absorb excess oil; if too hot, they may burn before cooking through.
Filling Variations
Feel free to experiment with different fillings. For a twist, consider adding vanilla essence to the custard or mixing in chocolate or fruit purees for additional flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These doughnut puffs pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making for an excellent afternoon snack or dessert. You may also serve them with fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed fresh, but can also be reheated briefly in the oven to restore some of their delightful texture.
Cook Techniques
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Combine the cake flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a large bowl to ensure an even distribution of leavening agents and flavor.
Incorporating Wet Ingredients
Gently stir the milk and melted butter into the dry ingredients to create a soft dough without overworking it.
Shaping Dough Balls
Portion the dough into small balls about the size of golf balls for even cooking and a perfect bite-sized treat.
Frying Tips
Heat the oil to the correct temperature (180°C or 350°F) before frying to achieve a golden-brown color and fluffy texture. Fry a few at a time to avoid overcrowding.
Cooling After Frying
Drain the fried puffs on paper towels to remove excess oil. Allow them to cool for a short time to make filling easier.
Filling Technique
Use a piping bag with a nozzle to inject the filling into each doughnut puff, which ensures they are filled evenly without tearing.
Coating in Cinnamon Sugar
Roll the filled puffs in cinnamon sugar while they are still warm for a delicious sticky coating that enhances the flavor.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of flour?
While cake flour is recommended for its light texture, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour, but the texture may be denser.
What can I use as a filling besides custard?
You can substitute the custard with pastry cream, chocolate or fruit fillings, or flavored whipped cream.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough into it; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the temperature is right.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Baking is an option, but the texture will be different. They may not achieve the same light, fluffy quality as frying.
How should I store the Melktert Bombs?
Store uneaten puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness. Reheat slightly before serving.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be prepared in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping and frying.
Conclusion
Experience a delightful burst of flavor with these Melktert Bombs. Their airy texture, combined with the rich filling of condensed milk and custard, creates a memorable treat that is sure to impress. Rolled in cinnamon sugar, these doughnut puffs offer a tantalizing sweetness that makes them perfect for any occasion. Enjoy them warm for an indulgent dessert that beautifully captures the essence of South African cuisine.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Churro-Style Melktert Bombs
Swap the cinnamon sugar for a churro coating by combining cinnamon with granulated sugar and a hint of nutmeg for a festive twist.
Chocolate Hazelnut Melktert Bombs
Add chocolate hazelnut spread to the filling for a decadent variation that pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon sugar exterior.
Caramel Apple Melktert Bombs
Incorporate diced cooked apples and a swirl of caramel sauce into the custard filling for an autumn-inspired treat.
Matcha Green Tea Melktert Bombs
Infuse the custard with matcha powder for a unique flavor and a beautiful green hue, creating an elegant dessert.
Pumpkin Spice Melktert Bombs
Mix pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice into the custard filling for a seasonal dessert that is perfect for fall gatherings.
