Doughnuts

Fluffy donuts for breakfast or dessert? Absolutely! These delights are perfect for adding a touch of joy to cooler days, and their inviting aroma will fill your home with warmth and happiness. I invite you to join me on this culinary adventure and discover the secret to fluffy and delicious donuts!

General Information
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Rising time: 1 hour and 20 minutes (including 20 minutes after cutting)
- Frying time: 15-20 minutes
- Number of servings: 12-15 donuts

Necessary Ingredients
- 600 g flour
- 1 packet (7 g) dry yeast
- 2 eggs
- 5 tablespoons of sugar
- 100 ml oil (plus additional oil for frying)
- 250-300 ml warm milk
- a pinch of salt
- 1 packet (10 g) vanilla sugar
- grated zest of one lemon

A Brief Story About Donuts
Donuts have a fascinating history, being cherished across various cultures for centuries. They have evolved from simple fried doughs to refined delicacies, with each recipe having its own variations and secrets. Today, I will show you how to make fluffy donuts that can be served plain or with delicious fillings, such as sour cherry jam or chocolate.

Step by Step for Fluffy Donuts

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
To achieve the best results, ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help the yeast work more efficiently and contribute to a fluffy dough.

Step 2: Activating the Yeast
In a small bowl, add 100 ml of warm milk and one teaspoon of sugar from the 5 tablespoons. Sprinkle the dry yeast on top and let it rise for about 10-15 minutes, until a foam forms on the surface. This is an indicator that the yeast is active and ready to work.

Step 3: Mixing the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the flour with a pinch of salt and the grated lemon zest, which will add a fresh aroma to your donuts. This step is essential for evenly distributing the ingredients.

Step 4: Combining the Wet Ingredients
Once the yeast has risen, add it to the bowl with the flour. Start mixing by hand, gradually adding the remaining warm milk and the rest of the sugar. Mix well until the ingredients begin to combine.

Step 5: Adding the Eggs
Beat the two eggs in a separate bowl and add them to the dough mixture, continuing to knead. The eggs will add volume and richness to your donuts.

Step 6: Incorporating the Oil
After the dough is well mixed, add the oil and continue kneading for another 5 minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic. This step is crucial for achieving fluffy donuts.

Step 7: Rising the Dough
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour. The dough should double in volume during this time.

Step 8: Shaping the Donuts
After the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1-2 cm. Use a glass or cutter to cut out round shapes. Place the donuts on a tray lined with baking paper and let them rise for another 20 minutes.

Step 9: Frying the Donuts
Heat the oil in a deep pan over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the donuts, being careful not to overcrowd them. Fry them on both sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Use a spatula to turn them carefully.

Step 10: Finishing
Remove the fried donuts onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. While they are still warm, sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a delicious finish.

Serving and Suggestions
These fluffy donuts are excellent served warm, alongside a cup of milk or a cup of coffee. You can fill them with sour cherry jam, chocolate, or vanilla cream for an even more delightful experience. A wonderful idea is to make them for a weekend brunch or as a dessert at a gathering with friends.

Variations and Tips
1. Different Flavors: You can experiment with different flavors by adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or even vanilla extracts.
2. Fillings: Instead of serving them plain, try filling them with jam, chocolate cream, or pudding.
3. Glazed Donuts: After frying, you can glaze them with a mixture of powdered sugar and lemon juice for a tangy taste.

Frequently Asked Questions
- The donuts did not rise enough. What did I do wrong?
Make sure the yeast is active, meaning it forms foam when left to rise. Also, check the temperature of the environment where you let the dough rise.

- Can I use another type of flour?
While wheat flour is ideal, you can experiment with whole wheat flour, but you will achieve a different texture.

- How long can I keep the donuts?
Donuts are best consumed fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container for 1-2 days.

Nutritional Benefits
Donuts are a source of carbohydrates that provide quick energy, but it is important to consume them in moderation, considering the sugar and fat content. You can enhance their nutritional value by adding healthy fillings, such as fruits or yogurt.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to get your hands on the dough and enjoy the cooking process! Fluffy donuts are not just a treat, but also a wonderful way to create pleasant memories in the kitchen. Enjoy!