Fluffy and aromatic donuts

Fluffy and Aromatic Donuts: A Recipe for the Soul

Donuts are more than just a simple dessert; they are a part of our memories, a piece of happiness that makes us feel good, whether served at breakfast, as a snack, or even as dessert. This recipe for fluffy and aromatic donuts is simple and accessible, and the final result will fill the house with an irresistible fragrance.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Frying time: 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12-15 donuts

Required ingredients

- 1 kg flour
- 30 g fresh yeast
- 250 g sugar
- 300 ml lukewarm milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon margarine
- Zest and juice of one orange
- A pinch of salt
- Vanilla sugar (to taste)
- Oil for frying

Preparing the donuts: Step by step

1. Preparing the yeast
In a small bowl, combine the yeast with 2 tablespoons of sugar, a pinch of salt, 3 tablespoons of lukewarm milk, and 1 tablespoon of flour. Mix well until you obtain a smooth paste. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it sit in a warm place for 15 minutes. This step is essential as it activates the yeast and ensures a fluffy texture for your donuts.

2. Mixing the ingredients
In a large bowl, add the flour and make a well in the center. Add the activated yeast, beaten eggs, the remaining milk, the zest and juice of the orange, melted margarine, the remaining sugar, and vanilla sugar. Mix the ingredients with a spatula or your hands until the mixture becomes homogeneous.

3. Kneading the dough
Transfer the dough to a floured work surface and knead for 8-10 minutes. The dough should be elastic and slightly sticky. If it is too dry, add a tablespoon of lukewarm water at a time. Finally, knead the dough with a little oil to give it a smooth texture and prevent sticking.

4. Rising the dough
Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for one hour or until it doubles in size. This is the magical stage where the donuts will gain their fluffiness.

5. Shaping the donuts
Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto the work surface. Roll it out with a rolling pin to about 1-2 cm thick. Using a glass or donut cutter, cut circles from the dough. Let the shaped donuts rest for another 10 minutes, covering them with a towel to prevent drying out.

6. Frying the donuts
Heat the oil in a deep pan. Test the oil temperature by adding a small piece of dough; if it rises to the surface and starts to sizzle, the oil is ready. Fry the donuts in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden. Remove them onto an absorbent towel to drain excess oil.

7. Finishing and serving
Dust the donuts with powdered sugar or vanilla sugar, to taste. These fluffy donuts are delicious both warm and at room temperature. Serve them with chocolate sauce, jam, or even a scoop of ice cream for a perfect experience.

Practical tips

- Frying oil: Use an oil with a high smoke point, such as sunflower or peanut oil, to avoid burning.
- Ingredient temperature: Make sure the milk is lukewarm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Variations: Experiment by adding flavors such as cardamom or cinnamon, or try adding chocolate pieces to the dough for a delicious twist.

Nutritional benefits
Although donuts are considered a dessert, the ingredients used can provide some benefits. Whole wheat flour can add fiber, and eggs provide essential proteins. When consumed in moderation, donuts can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use dry yeast? Yes, you can substitute fresh yeast with dry yeast. Use about 10 g.
- How can I store the donuts? Keep the donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to restore freshness.
- What drinks pair well with donuts? Donuts pair perfectly with aromatic coffee, green tea, or even a fruity smoothie.

A personal note
These donuts are a memory of my childhood when my mother would make them on weekends. The sweet smell that filled the house was simply irresistible. I hope you enjoy this recipe and turn it into a family tradition, bringing not just a dessert to the table, but also unforgettable moments.

So, gather your ingredients and let’s enjoy fluffy and aromatic donuts, a delight that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones!