Crispy donuts with sweet cheese

Crispy Sweet Cheese Donuts – An Unforgettable Delicacy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

On an ordinary day, while watching the show 'The Cherry on the Cake', I was captivated by the delicious papanasi prepared by a talented contestant. The craving was so strong that I decided to improvise something similar with ingredients I already had at home. Thus, the sweet cheese donuts appeared on my table, quickly becoming a favorite recipe! These donuts are crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside, and the combination of sweet cheese and lemon gives them a special flavor.

Brief history:
Donuts are a traditional dessert found in many cultures, often associated with moments of celebration and joy. Over time, each region has brought its own variations, from jam-filled donuts to those with sweet cheese, like the ones we will prepare today. This simple and delicious dessert has been loved by generations, being perfect for breakfast as well as a sweet snack during the day.

Ingredients you need:
- 250 g sweet cheese (preferably cow's cheese, well drained)
- 4 tablespoons of sugar (you can adjust to taste)
- 1/2 sachet of baking powder (about 5-7 g)
- Zest of 1 lemon (for extra flavor)
- Flour (as needed, about 200 g, but it will vary depending on the moisture of the cheese)

Preparation technique:

1. Preparing the mixture:
In a large bowl, add the well-drained sweet cheese. If the cheese is too wet, the donuts will be sticky, so make sure it is well drained. Use a fork to lightly mash it until it becomes a smooth paste.

2. Adding the ingredients:
Add the 4 tablespoons of sugar, lemon zest, and baking powder. Mix all the ingredients well until the sugar partially dissolves. The lemon zest will add a fresh note and complement the cheese flavor.

3. Incorporating the flour:
Start adding the flour gradually. It is important to sift it to avoid lumps. Mix gently with a spatula or your hands until you obtain a dough that does not stick to your fingers but is soft enough to be rolled out. Find the perfect balance between moisture and consistency by adding flour until the dough becomes pliable.

4. Shaping the donuts:
On a clean surface, sprinkle a little flour and roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1-1.5 cm. Use a glass to cut circles from the dough. If you wish, you can also make a small hole in the center of each donut for a classic shape.

5. Frying:
In a deep pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Make sure it is hot enough before adding the donuts; otherwise, they will absorb too much oil. Fry the donuts on each side for 3-4 minutes or until golden and crispy. Use a spatula to carefully turn them.

6. Draining the oil:
Once fried, remove the donuts onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil. This way, they will remain crispy and not heavy.

7. Serving:
These donuts can be served warm or cold, and for an extra touch of flavor, you can sprinkle powdered sugar on top or serve them with a yogurt or sweetened sour cream glaze. A slice of lemon alongside will add a pleasant contrast.

Practical tips for a perfect result:
- Make sure the sweet cheese is well drained; otherwise, the dough will be too wet.
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can also add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the mixture.
- The donuts can be stored in an airtight container for 2-3 days, but I recommend consuming them fresh to enjoy the crispy texture.

Nutritional benefits:
These sweet cheese donuts are a good source of protein due to the cheese, also providing calcium and B vitamins. However, it is important to enjoy them in moderation, considering the sugar and calorie content.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can use ricotta or cottage cheese. Make sure they are well drained.

2. Can the donuts be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the un-fried donuts. Fry them before consuming.

3. What can they be served with?
These donuts go wonderfully with a cup of aromatic tea or a creamy latte. You can also pair them with fruit jam or apple compote.

I hope this recipe for crispy sweet cheese donuts brings smiles to your face and unforgettable moments with your loved ones. Enjoy!