Desserts > Baked Goods > German Baked Goods

Banana-Walnut Punchkrapfen Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 cup mashed ripe bananas
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Special equipment needed:
- Stand mixer with dough hook attachment
- Rolling pin
- 3-inch round cookie cutter
- Deep fryer or large pot for frying
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Mix on low speed until well combined.

2. Add the softened butter, warm milk, egg, vanilla extract, mashed bananas, and chopped walnuts to the bowl. Mix on low speed until a soft dough forms.

3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.

5. After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out to 1/4 inch thickness.

6. Use a 3-inch round cookie cutter to cut out circles of dough.

7. Heat the deep fryer or large pot of oil to 375°F.

8. Carefully drop the dough circles into the hot oil, frying for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

9. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried doughnuts from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

10. Serve warm and enjoy!


Time:
Preparation time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cooking time: 10-15 minutes
Temperature:
Oil temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
Makes 12-15 doughnuts

Nutritional information:
Calories: 220
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 4g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 8g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour can be used in place of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
- Brown sugar can be used in place of granulated sugar for a richer flavor.
- Pecans or almonds can be used in place of walnuts.

Variations:
- Add chocolate chips to the dough for a chocolate-banana flavor.
- Drizzle with a cream cheese glaze for added sweetness.
- Roll the dough in cinnamon sugar after frying for a churro-like flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to ensure the doughnuts cook evenly.
- Don't overcrowd the fryer or pot, as this can cause the temperature to drop and result in greasy doughnuts.
- Use a slotted spoon to gently flip the doughnuts in the oil to prevent them from breaking apart.

Storage instructions:
Store leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat leftover doughnuts in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the doughnuts on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar and a sprinkle of chopped walnuts.

Garnishes:
Sprinkle with powdered sugar, chopped walnuts, or drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce.

Pairings:
Pair with a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk.

Suggested side dishes:
Serve with fresh fruit or a side of bacon for a savory contrast.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour until it becomes manageable.
- If the dough doesn't rise, make sure it's in a warm place and give it more time to rest.
- If the doughnuts are greasy, make sure the oil is hot enough and don't overcrowd the fryer or pot.

Food safety advice:
Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent undercooked doughnuts.

Food history:
Punchkrapfen is a traditional Austrian pastry that is similar to a doughnut.

Flavor profiles:
Sweet, nutty, and spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

Serving suggestions:
Serve warm as a breakfast pastry or as a dessert after dinner.

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Region: Austrian

Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Fruity, Creamy, Spiced