Samoan Donuts (Keke)

Keke, the Samoan donut, is a deep-fried pillow of dough enriched with coconut milk and finished with a generous roll in sugar. It is the classic treat sold at Samoan bakeries, school fairs, and church fundraisers, always warm and always in a paper bag that quickly stains with sugar. The recipe reflects the island talent for taking a simple idea and making it richer and more comforting.

What makes it great: the coconut milk makes the dough tender and faintly sweet, and deep-frying gives it a crisp golden shell around a soft, airy center. Rolled in sugar while still warm, it is the kind of simple dessert that disappears fast — best eaten the moment it is cool enough to touch.

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