Olie Bolen
Olie Bolen are delightful Dutch-style fried dough balls filled with raisins, crispy golden on the outside, soft on the inside, perfect for sharing at gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
- Add eggs and buttermilk; stir until well combined and smooth.
- Fold in raisins evenly into the batter.
- Heat oil to 375°F (190°C) in a deep fryer or large pot.
- Drop tablespoons of batter into hot oil, frying in batches if necessary.
- Fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, sift the flour before measuring. You can substitute half the buttermilk with sour cream for a richer flavor. If you prefer, use dried currants or chopped dried apricots instead of raisins. To enhance the taste, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a dash of nutmeg to the batter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Olie Bolen dusted with powdered sugar for a delightful presentation. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a perfect afternoon treat. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside Sherried Fruit as a sweet contrast. They are also delicious when dipped in chocolate or berry butters.
Storage & Reheating
Olie Bolen can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to a month. To reheat, simply warm them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Olie Bolen contains roughly 519 calories, with 16g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value), iron (28% of the Daily Value), and calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1652mg per serving (72% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Olie Bolen ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Fry them just before serving for the best texture. However, freshly made Olie Bolen are always best enjoyed warm and crispy.
What type of oil is best for frying Olie Bolen?
A neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil or canola oil, is ideal for frying Olie Bolen. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb minimal oil, resulting in a light and fluffy treat.
Can I make a gluten-free version of Olie Bolen?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum to help with the texture. The other ingredients should remain the same for a delicious gluten-free version.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).