In the Netherlands' New Year's Eve tradition, oliebollen are fried dough treats commonly served with powdered sugar.
The name oliebollen literally means “oil balls,” referring to the dough being deep-fried in oil. The mixture may contain raisins, currants, or pieces of apple, although recipes vary. They are usually eaten warm or at room temperature and are especially associated with the period from late autumn through New Year's celebrations.
Oliebollen are sold by temporary seasonal stands and bakeries throughout the Netherlands. They are also eaten in parts of Belgium, where related preparations have regional names and variations. The crisp outside and soft interior make them a familiar winter snack.
The treat is sometimes compared with doughnuts, but oliebollen are not simply the same as ring-shaped doughnuts. Their traditional shape is a rough sphere, and they are typically dusted with icing sugar rather than glazed. The custom belongs to Dutch winter food culture rather than to the midnight countdown itself.