Berliner Ballen

Berliner Pfannkuchen , or Berliner Ballen

(Jelly Filled Doughnuts)

Ingredients:
 
1 cup mashed potatoes
1 cup milk
2/3 cup sugar
2/3 cup lard
2 eggs
1 tsp. salt, scant
1 package active dry yeast
Flour
1 pinch cardamom, optional
2 tsp. lemon peel, grated

Directions:

Mix potatoes, sugar, and lard together, then add milk.  When lukewarm, add yeast, which has been dissolved in a little warm water.  Add egg and stir in enough flour to make a smooth dough that can be easily handled.  Let rise.  The dough can now be put in the refrigerator for later use.

Form dough into balls about the size of a small egg.  Cut a hole in one side and insert about a tsp. of jam or jelly of your choice.  Close hole and let the dough rise again.  Heat enough shortening or oil in a saucepan so doughnuts will float.  Drop doughnuts in and fry until golden brown on both sides.  Drain and roll in sugar after they have cooled.

Note:  Mom used to make these on New Year’s Eve