Doughnuts

Fluffy Homemade Donuts: An Irresistible Delight

Discover the magic of fluffy donuts, a dessert that brings smiles to the faces of your loved ones. This simple and delicious recipe will transform your kitchen into a place filled with enticing aromas, and each bite will take you to a world of childhood, where donuts were always a treat.

Before we begin, let’s familiarize ourselves with the history of donuts. These delicacies have been made for centuries, with various versions around the world. Their popularity has grown due to their fluffy texture and flavors enhanced with various toppings. Now, let’s see how we can recreate this goodness at home!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Frying time: 15 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 35 minutes
Number of servings: 12 donuts

Essential ingredients:
- 150 ml lukewarm milk (not hot)
- 25 g fresh yeast or 7 g dry yeast
- 50 g sugar (plus a little for decoration)
- 2 large eggs
- 500 g all-purpose flour
- A pinch of salt
- Oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for decoration

Step 1: Activating the yeast
In a small bowl, add the lukewarm milk, yeast, and sugar. Gently stir with a spoon, then let the mixture sit for 10 minutes until a foam forms on the surface. This is a crucial step, as the activated yeast will make the donuts fluffy and airy.

Step 2: Preparing the dough
Once the yeast is activated, in a large bowl, add the eggs and the milk-yeast mixture. Gradually incorporate the flour and a pinch of salt. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until the dough starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little flour, but be careful not to overdo it.

Step 3: Kneading
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. A good technique is to lift the dough and slap it down on the surface, then fold it. This will help develop the gluten, giving the donuts their desired texture.

Step 4: Rising
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour. The dough should double in size. This step is essential for achieving fluffy and airy donuts.

Step 5: Shaping the donuts
After the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured or oiled surface until you get a sheet about 1 cm thick. Use a cup or a tart ring to cut out donut shapes. Make sure to gently twist the cup for each cut to prevent the dough from sticking. Place the donuts on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and let them rest for another 15 minutes. This step will help achieve an extra fluffy texture.

Step 6: Frying
Heat the oil in a deep pan or a pot to about 180°C. The donuts are ready to be fried when the oil is bubbling but not smoking. Start frying the donuts in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Each donut will need about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden.

Step 7: Decorating
After removing them from the oil, place the donuts on a paper towel to absorb excess oil. While still warm, sprinkle them with powdered sugar for a storybook appearance. If you want to personalize them, you can add cinnamon to the powdered sugar or fill the donuts with jam or chocolate cream as desired.

Practical tips:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before you start cooking.
- If you want filled donuts, you can add fruit jam, chocolate, or various creams inside the dough before shaping.
- Instead of powdered sugar, you can use melted chocolate glaze for a decadent look.
- Donuts can be served warm, but they are just as delicious cold the next day.

Nutritional benefits:
These fluffy donuts are a good source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy. Additionally, the eggs contribute quality protein. However, moderate consumption is recommended due to the sugar and fat content from frying.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but you will need to adjust the amount. Use 7 g of dry yeast for this recipe.

2. How can I keep the donuts fresh?
Donuts are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days.

3. Can I freeze the donuts?
Yes, you can freeze the fried donuts. Make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in freezer bags. When you want to consume them, you can reheat them in the oven.

Ideal pairings:
These fluffy donuts pair perfectly with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a fragrant tea. You can also try serving them alongside vanilla ice cream or warm chocolate sauce.

Now that you have all the details and tricks you need, all that’s left is to get cooking and enjoy the final result. Fluffy donuts are more than just a dessert; they are a culinary experience that brings joy and unforgettable moments with loved ones. Enjoy!