Ingredients
Strawberry Filling
- 3 cups quartered fresh strawberries
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- Pinch fine sea salt
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons water
Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling and dusting)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 3/4 cup whole milk (warmed to 110-115°F)
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 large egg yolk (room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
For Frying
- Neutral oil (canola or vegetable) for frying, about 2-3 inches depth
Strawberry Glaze
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons dried strawberry powder
- 5 tablespoons room temperature water
Instructions
- Make the Strawberry Filling: In a small saucepan, combine quartered strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and salt. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally for 35-40 minutes until the mixture is thick, jammy, and dark red in color.
- Thicken the Filling: Mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir it into the strawberry mixture and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until thickened enough to hold its shape with no visible liquid.
- Cool the Filling: Transfer the strawberry filling to a shallow bowl and refrigerate until completely cold and spreadable, as this is essential before assembling the fritters.
- Prepare the Dough: In a stand mixer bowl, combine flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Add warm milk, whole egg, and egg yolk. Using a dough hook, knead on low speed for about 3 minutes until a rough dough forms.
- Add Butter and Knead: While mixer runs on low, add softened butter gradually (½ tablespoon at a time), letting each incorporate fully. Continue kneading for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Proof the Dough: Shape the dough into a ball, cover, and let it rise in a warm area until doubled in size, around 1-2 hours.
- Prepare for Frying: Heat 2-3 inches of neutral oil in a heavy-bottomed pot to 365°F (185°C). Line baking sheets with wire racks and cut parchment squares (5×4 inches) for frying.
- Roll and Fill the Dough: On a floured surface, roll risen dough into a 15×13 inch rectangle. Spread the cooled strawberry filling evenly and sprinkle 1½ tablespoons flour over the filling.
- Shape the Dough: Roll the dough starting from the long side into a log. Cut the log diagonally into ½- to 1-inch strips, then cross-cut to make small dough pieces. Sprinkle with flour and gently reform into a rough log.
- Cut into Portions: Slice the log into 8 equal parts. For each, gently gather dough pieces and sprinkle flour on top. Flip the dough onto a parchment square, flour side down, and flatten into ½-inch thick discs. Set aside.
- Fry the Fritters: When oil reaches 365°F, fry one fritter at a time, keeping oil temperature between 355-365°F. Use a skimmer spoon to flip fritter along with the parchment paper, then peel off the paper and fully submerge the fritter into oil. Fry 1½-2 minutes per side until deep golden brown.
- Drain and Repeat: Remove fritter and place on wire rack. Repeat frying for remaining fritters.
- Make the Strawberry Glaze: Whisk powdered sugar, dried strawberry powder, and water in a bowl until smooth and combined.
- Glaze the Fritters: Dip the tops of the warm fritters into the glaze, allowing excess to drip off. Place back on the wire rack and let the glaze set before serving.
Notes
- Ensure strawberry filling is fully cooled before assembling to avoid soggy dough.
- Measure flour by weighing or spooning into measuring cups and leveling off to avoid dense dough.
- Maintain consistent oil temperature for even frying and optimal texture.
- Use instant yeast for faster and more reliable rising.
- Dried strawberry powder for glaze adds natural flavor and color without artificial dyes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American