Oliebollen are traditional Dutch New Year's Eve pastries shaped like balls.
The name oliebollen means “oil balls,” referring to the deep-frying method used to cook the dough. The pastries are usually made from yeast-based batter and may contain raisins or currants. They are commonly served warm and dusted with powdered sugar during the winter holiday season.
In the Netherlands, oliebollen are strongly associated with New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. Temporary street stalls and bakery counters often sell them during the holiday period, making them a familiar seasonal sight as well as a home-cooked treat.
Oliebollen are sometimes compared with doughnuts, but they have their own Dutch culinary history and are not simply ring-shaped doughnuts. Their round form and rich, fried texture fit the festive food traditions found in many cultures, while their name and preparation identify them specifically with the Netherlands.