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For the Chocolate Filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz semisweet or dark chocolate, chopped (you can also use chocolate chips)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for extra richness)
For Coating:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and stir until dissolved. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates the yeast is active and ready.
- Mix the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and lemon zest (if using). Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough starts to form.
- Knead the dough: Add the softened butter and knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can do this by hand or use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Filling
- Heat the cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove it from the heat just before it starts to boil.
- Melt the chocolate: Add the chopped chocolate and butter to the hot cream, stirring until completely smooth and combined. Let the mixture cool slightly, then refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up into a pipeable filling.
Step 3: Shape the Berliners
- Roll out the dough: Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about ½ inch thick. Using a round cookie cutter or a glass, cut out circles of dough, about 3-4 inches in diameter.
- Let the dough rise again: Place the dough circles on a parchment-lined tray and cover with a towel. Let them rest for another 20-30 minutes to allow the dough to rise slightly.
Step 4: Fry the Berliners
- Heat the oil: In a large, deep pan or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). You’ll need enough oil to submerge the dough completely.
- Fry the dough: Carefully drop the dough circles into the hot oil in batches. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan to maintain the temperature of the oil.
- Drain the Berliners: Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried Berliners from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Fill and Coat the Berliners
- Fill the Berliners: Once the Berliners have cooled slightly but are still warm, use a piping bag fitted with a long nozzle to inject the chocolate filling into the center of each Berliner.
- Coat with powdered sugar: Once filled, roll the Berliners in powdered sugar for that classic finish.
Tips for the Perfect Chocolate-Filled Berliners
- Use high-quality chocolate: The filling is the star of this recipe, so using good quality semisweet or dark chocolate will make a big difference in taste.
- Monitor the frying temperature: If the oil is too hot, the Berliners will burn on the outside before cooking through. If it’s too cold, they will absorb excess oil. A deep-frying thermometer can help ensure the oil stays at a consistent temperature.
- Flavor variations: For a fun twist, try adding a dash of cinnamon or coffee to the chocolate filling for a more complex flavor profile.
Conclusion
Chocolate-Filled Berliners Delight are the ultimate treat for chocolate lovers. Their soft, fluffy dough and creamy chocolate filling make them a decadent indulgence for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a brunch, a family gathering, or simply enjoying them on a cozy weekend morning, these pastries will leave everyone craving more. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the perfect balance of chocolate and dough in every bite!
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