Big-Batch Bismarks

Directions

1. 1

   In a large bowl, dissolve yeast and 4 teaspoons sugar in warm water. Add the milk, eggs, oil, salt, remaining sugar and 8 cups flour until blended. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough. Divide dough in half.
2. 2

   Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in two greased bowls, turning once to a grease tops. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
3. 3

   Punch the dough down. Turn on a floured surface; roll out to 1/2-in. thickness. Cut with a floured 3-in. round cutter. Place 2 in. apart on greased baking sheets. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 30 minutes.
4. 4

   In an electric skillet or deep-fat fryer, heat oil to 375°. Fry bismarks, a few at a time, for 1 minute on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels. Cool for 2-3 minutes. Cut a small slit with a sharp knife in one side of each bismark; fill with about 1 teaspoon jelly. Decorate with frosting and sprinkles if desired.