Fluffy and fragrant donuts

Fluffy and fragrant donuts – a classic treat that never goes out of style! These donuts are perfect for a savory breakfast, a sweet snack, or a dessert that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. I propose a simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for turning an ordinary day into a special one. I will carefully guide you through the steps to achieve perfect, fluffy, and aromatic donuts that will make you feel like a true kitchen master.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Frying time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 12 donuts

Ingredients:

- 500 g flour
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 150-170 ml warm milk
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 eggs
- 3 tablespoons oil (plus oil for frying)
- Vanilla essence or other preferred flavors
- A pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar for decoration

A brief history

Donuts are a popular dessert in many cultures, with deep roots in culinary traditions. Over time, these delicacies have been reinvented and adapted, but their essence remains the same: a fluffy dough, fried to perfection. Today, donuts are enjoyed worldwide, either plain or filled with jam, chocolate, or vanilla cream.

Preparing the donuts

Step 1: Activating the yeast

Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, add 150 ml of warm milk (make sure it’s not too hot, as excessive heat can kill the yeast). Add the fresh yeast and a tablespoon of sugar. Gently mix and let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is a crucial step, as activated yeast will make the donuts fluffy and airy.

Step 2: Preparing the dough

In a large bowl, sift the flour and add a pinch of salt. Make a well in the center of the flour and pour in the yeast mixture. Then, add the remaining warm milk, beaten eggs, vanilla essence (or your preferred flavor), and the other two tablespoons of sugar. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix the ingredients until the dough begins to form.

Step 3: Kneading

Once the dough has come together, transfer it to a lightly floured work surface. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes. Gradually add the oil, continuing to knead until the dough becomes elastic and smooth. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little flour, but be careful not to overdo it, as you want to maintain the fluffy 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 1 hour, until it doubles in size. This is when the yeast works its magic!

Step 5: Shaping the donuts

After the dough has risen, transfer it back to the work surface and roll it out to a thickness of about 1-2 cm. Using a glass or round cutter, cut out the donuts. You can leave them plain or cut them into more interesting shapes, depending on your preferences. Place the donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes.

Step 6: Frying

Meanwhile, heat the oil in a deep pan. Make sure the oil is hot enough but not smoking (about 180 degrees Celsius is ideal). Fry the donuts for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden and fluffy. Use a spatula to carefully turn them.

Step 7: Finishing

Once the donuts are ready, remove them to a paper towel to absorb excess oil. While still warm, dust them with powdered sugar for a special appearance and delicious flavor.

Serving suggestions

These donuts are delicious served plain, but you can turn them into a real feast! Add a spoonful of fruit jam, chocolate cream, or even ice cream for a more extravagant dessert. You can serve them with a cup of coffee, tea, or a fresh smoothie for a complete experience.

Possible variations

If you want to add a touch of originality, you can add a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough before frying for an extra flavor boost. Additionally, the donuts can be filled with sweet creams or chocolate, giving them a modern twist.

Calories and nutritional benefits

Each donut contains approximately 200-250 calories, depending on size and ingredients used. Although they are not the healthiest choice, donuts can be enjoyed in moderation. The flour used provides carbohydrates, while the eggs and milk add protein and calcium. It’s important to consume them as part of a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use dry yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but adjust the amount. Usually, 7 g of dry yeast is equivalent to 25 g of fresh yeast.

2. How can I keep the donuts fresh?
Donuts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you want to keep them longer, I recommend freezing them.

3. Can I customize the donuts?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different flavors, fillings, and glazes. Be creative and adapt the recipe to your preferences!

I hope this recipe inspires you to make fluffy and fragrant donuts at home. Share your creation with your loved ones and enjoy every bite!