Doughnuts filled with jam

Jam-Filled Donuts – A Classic Delight

Jam-filled donuts are a dessert that brings a touch of nostalgia in every bite. This simple and accessible recipe transforms common ingredients into little treats that delight the taste buds. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a sweet moment at home, donuts are always an inspired choice. Let's discover together how to make them perfectly!

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 12 donuts

Ingredients

- 5 fresh eggs
- 1 kg of flour
- 50 g of dry yeast
- 250 g of sugar
- 1 orange essence (or lemon, for a fresher taste)
- Oil for frying
- Warm water (approximately 300 ml)
- Jam (of choice: apricot, plum, or berries)

The story behind the recipe

Donuts have a long history, being associated with moments of joy, celebration, and warmth in the family. This recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, with each family having its own variation. From various fillings to different flavors, donuts can be adapted to everyone's tastes. Now is the time to bring this tradition into your kitchen!

Step by Step

1. Preparing the dough

The first step is to ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature. Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. This will help aerate the flour, resulting in a fluffier dough. Make a nest in the middle of the flour and add the sugar, orange essence, eggs, and dry yeast.

2. Activating the yeast

Dissolve the yeast in warm water (not hot, so as not to kill the yeast). Let the mixture sit for a few minutes until a foam forms on the surface. This is a simple method to activate the yeast and check if it is still good.

3. Kneading the dough

Add the yeast mixture to the nest of flour and start kneading. Gradually add warm water, continuing to knead. The dough should become elastic and slightly sticky, but not overly soft. Once you achieve the desired consistency, grease the dough with oil and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in volume.

4. Shaping the donuts

After the dough has risen, transfer it to a floured surface. Divide it into pieces of about 50 g each. Form balls and roll them out with a rolling pin, making sure to keep them round and not too thin.

5. Filling the donuts

Use a glass or a cutter to cut out round shapes. On each shape, add a teaspoon of jam in the center. Cover with another piece of dough and seal the edges by pressing gently. This step is essential to prevent the jam from leaking during frying.

6. Frying the donuts

In a deep pan, heat the oil to medium temperature. You can check if the oil is ready by throwing in a small piece of dough – if it rises to the surface and starts to sizzle, it’s time to start frying. Carefully place the donuts in the oil and fry them until golden on each side (about 3-4 minutes on each side).

7. Serving

Remove the fried donuts onto a paper towel to absorb the excess oil. If desired, you can sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a more attractive appearance. These donuts are delicious warm, but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.

Practical Tips

- Types of jam: Choose seasonal fruit jams for the most flavorful donuts. Raspberry or peach jam adds a note of freshness.
- Variations: You can add some spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a more complex flavor.
- Chocolate-filled donuts: Replace the jam with melted chocolate for a decadent version.
- Dough care: Make sure the dough is covered during rising to prevent a dry crust from forming.

Nutritional Information

A serving of jam-filled donuts (about 1 piece) contains around 250-300 calories, depending on the type of jam and the oil used for frying. They provide a quick source of energy due to carbohydrates, but it's recommended to consume them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
- Yes, but the donuts will have a different texture and a more intense flavor. You may need to adjust the amount of water.

2. How can I store the donuts?
- The donuts can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. It is recommended to reheat them slightly before enjoying.

3. What drinks pair well with filled donuts?
- A flavored tea or fresh fruit juice is the ideal choice, but an espresso or cappuccino will complement them wonderfully.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to gather your ingredients and start cooking! Jam-filled donuts are more than just a simple dessert; they are a way to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!