Berliner Pfannkuchen — German Jelly Donuts Recipe
By Sarah Mitchell • June 14, 2026
Fluffy, deep-fried doughnuts filled with strawberry jam and dusted with powdered sugar. Traditional for Karneval and New Year's Eve.
About This Recipe
"Berliner Pfannkuchen — German Jelly Donuts" is a Dessert recipe that brings flour, yeast, warm milk, sugar and egg yolks together into a flavorful, well-balanced dish. Rated Medium and ready in about 50 minutes, this recipe fits easily into a busy schedule. It serves 12 and works equally well for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. The German inspiration behind this dish balances classic techniques with clean, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 cups flour
- 1 packet yeast
- 0.75 cup warm milk
- 0.25 cup sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- 3 tbsp butter, softened
- 1 cup strawberry jam
- oil for frying, powdered sugar
Instructions
- 1
Make dough: combine flour, yeast, milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter. Knead until smooth. Rise 1.5 hours.
- 2
Roll out to 1.5cm thickness. Cut 8cm rounds. Let rise on a floured tray for 30 minutes.
- 3
Deep fry in 170°C oil, 2-3 minutes per side with lid on (for the white ring).
- 4
Fill with jam using a piping bag and long nozzle. Dust with powdered sugar.
Expert Tips
For the best result, use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find. Flour is the heart of this dish, so choose it with care. Read the recipe through before you start and prep all ingredients in advance (mise en place) so the cooking process is smooth. Stovetop work especially well for this preparation. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acid at the end to make the flavors pop.
What To Serve With This
"Berliner Pfannkuchen — German Jelly Donuts" is a versatile Dessert dish that pairs beautifully with freshly brewed coffee or espresso, lightly sweetened whipped cream, vanilla ice cream and classic German sides. Choose at least one fresh and one hearty side to create a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store Berliner Pfannkuchen — German Jelly Donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or at room temperature for 1–2 days if it does not contain dairy or custard. Cover loosely so the texture stays fresh. For the best flavor, bring to room temperature before serving or warm briefly in the oven.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make Berliner Pfannkuchen — German Jelly Donuts?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, for a total of roughly 50 minutes. It serves 12 and is rated Medium.
How do I store leftover Berliner Pfannkuchen — German Jelly Donuts?
Store leftover Berliner Pfannkuchen — German Jelly Donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.
Can I make Berliner Pfannkuchen — German Jelly Donuts ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Berliner Pfannkuchen — German Jelly Donuts in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving to preserve the best texture and flavor.
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