Doughnuts

Fluffy and Delicious Donuts: A Simple Recipe for an Irresistible Dessert

Total Time: 2 hours
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 10-15 minutes
Number of Servings: 12-15 donuts

If you are looking for a donut recipe that will make you feel like a true magician in the kitchen, you have come to the right place. These donuts are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly fluffy and delicious, with a perfect texture that keeps them fresh even after a few days. I will share every step of this simple yet magical process to ensure that your donuts will be a real hit on any occasion!

Ingredients

- 250 ml milk (about 1 cup)
- 3 cups flour (use the same cup for all measurements)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon dry yeast (or 25 g fresh yeast)
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 50 g butter
- 2 packets vanilla sugar
- Rum essence (optional, for flavor)
- 1 egg
- 2-3 tablespoons oil (for frying)

A Bit of History

Donuts have a fascinating history, being considered a symbol of sweetness and joy in many cultures. In various forms, they have been prepared for generations, and each family has its secret recipe. This type of dessert is often associated with festive moments and family gatherings, being a delight that brings people together around the table.

Making the Donuts

Step 1: Heating the Milk

Start by placing the milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the salt, vanilla sugar, and regular sugar. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon until all the ingredients are completely dissolved. It is important that the milk is warm but not hot, as this will destroy the yeast.

Step 2: Melting the Butter

Once the milk is warm and the ingredients are dissolved, remove the saucepan from the heat and add the butter. Let it melt completely in the warm milk, creating a rich base for your dough.

Step 3: Preparing the Yeast

If you are using fresh yeast, dissolve it in a small bowl with a teaspoon of sugar, a teaspoon of flour, and 3 tablespoons of warm milk. Let this mixture sit for 10-15 minutes until it becomes frothy. If you are using dry yeast, you can skip this step.

Step 4: Mixing the Ingredients

In a large bowl, place the sifted flour and the yeast (whether fresh or dry). Add the egg, warm milk (with melted butter), and rum essence. Knead the dough well until the flour is completely incorporated. Finally, add the oil (heated in the microwave for 40 seconds) and continue kneading until the oil is absorbed.

Step 5: Letting the Dough Rise

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, which is a sign that the yeast has done its job.

Step 6: Shaping the Donuts

After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a well-floured work surface. Roll it out to a thickness of about 1 cm. Use a glass or a knife to cut circles from the dough. Place them on a tray and let them rise for another 10 minutes.

Step 7: Frying the Donuts

Heat the oil in a deep pan. When the oil is hot (about 180°C), fry the donuts in batches until golden brown on both sides. It is important not to overcrowd the pan to allow the donuts to fry evenly.

Step 8: Absorbing the Fats

Once the donuts are fried, place them on a kitchen towel to absorb the excess oil. This is an essential step to achieve fluffy and delicious donuts.

Step 9: Filling the Donuts

After they have cooled slightly, you can fill them with chocolate or jam using a piping bag. Personally, I recommend using warmed Finetti in the microwave for a creamy and delicious filling.

Step 10: Finishing Touch

For an attractive appearance and a sweet touch, dust the donuts with powdered sugar. This detail not only enhances the look but also adds a wonderful taste.

Serving Suggestions

These donuts are wonderful served warm, alongside a cup of coffee or tea. If you want to turn them into an unforgettable experience, try serving them with vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream.

Recipe Variations

If you are feeling adventurous, you can experiment with different fillings, such as vanilla cream, fruit jam, or even a combination of white chocolate and strawberries. You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for an extra flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

Donuts are a good source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy. Additionally, butter and eggs bring healthy fats and proteins, contributing to a balanced diet. However, when consumed in moderation, they can be part of a healthy lifestyle, especially when made at home from quality ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can replace part of the white flour with whole wheat flour, but the donuts will be denser.

2. How can I keep the donuts fresh?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain fluffy for a few days.

3. Can the donuts be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the donuts, but make sure to let them cool completely before packing them.

I hope this recipe for fluffy and delicious donuts will bring smiles and moments of joy to your family. Don't forget to enjoy every step of the process and share these delights with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!