How to make Pampushky:

• Dissolve the yeast (as per instructions). Leave for 10 minutes.
• Pour part of the flour (6 cups) into a bowl. Make a well in the middle.
• Whisk the eggs lightly. Add the melted butter, milk, sugar, and salt.Mix with the flour and yeast.
• Mix thoroughly and knead until soft and not sticky. Add more flour if necessary.
• Knead for 10 minutes until homogenous and elastic.
• Cover and let rise in a warm pace until the dough doubles in volume. Punch down and knead lightly. Let rise again.
• Take a small amount of dough and roll it out on a floured surface. The dough should be thick.
• Cut out circles with a glass.
• Place a small amount of filling in the center of each circle. Bring the edges together. Pinch well to seal tightly.
• Place the pampushky seam-side down on a floured surface. Cover and let rise (approx. 15 minutes).
• Deep fry in sunflower oil, heated to 375 °F/ 190° C (approx. 3 minutes), turning to brown on both sides.
• When removing from the pan, leave most of the oil in the pan. Place the pаmpushky on paper towel to absorb any excess oil. 

Alternative fillings:

Poppyseed filling

• Grind the dry poppyseeds in a coffee grinder. Add to the moistened raisins.
• Combine the honey, nuts, and vegetable oil. Fold into the poppyseeds.

Cherry filling

• Boil the cherries until soft.
• Drain thoroughly. Put through a food processor or blender.
• Add the remaining ingredients.
• Blend thoroughly.