Fluffy donuts

Fluffy Homemade Doughnuts: a Delicious and Simple Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 45 minutes
Frying time: 4 minutes (2 minutes on each side)
Total: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Servings: 12 doughnuts

Doughnuts are a beloved delicacy cherished by many generations, with a rich and varied history. Over time, these desserts have been associated with moments of joy and celebration, often prepared for special occasions or simply to bring a smile to the faces of loved ones. Today, I will share my favorite recipe for fluffy doughnuts, which are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious!

Necessary ingredients:

- 500 g all-purpose flour (choose a good quality flour for optimal results)
- 250 ml warm milk (the milk helps activate the yeast and adds a creamy taste)
- 25 g fresh yeast (for a fluffy dough)
- 70 g sugar (sweetens the doughnuts and helps with browning)
- 2 egg yolks (contributes to a rich and golden texture)
- Grated zest of one lemon (adds a burst of flavor and freshness)
- 50 g melted butter (enriches the taste and texture of the dough)
- 5 g salt (balances the sweetness)

Step 1: Preparing the dough

Start by mixing the flour, sugar, lemon zest, and salt in a large bowl. This base will give the doughnuts a wonderful flavor and perfect texture. Make sure the ingredients are well combined to avoid lumps.

In another bowl, combine the warm milk with the fresh yeast and egg yolks. It’s important that the milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast. Adding the melted butter completes this mixture, providing a rich flavor.

Step 2: Forming the dough

Pour the liquid mixture over the dry ingredients and start mixing with a spatula or your hands. When the dough begins to form, knead it for about 10 minutes. This is an essential step, as kneading will develop the gluten in the flour, giving the doughnuts the desired fluffy structure.

After kneading the dough, cover it with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 15 minutes. This time will allow the yeast to work, making the dough rise.

Step 3: Shaping the doughnuts

Once the dough has risen, divide it into 12 equal portions, each weighing between 75-80 grams. Shape balls from each portion and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the dough balls with a towel and let them rise for 30 minutes until they double in size.

Step 4: Frying the doughnuts

Meanwhile, prepare the oil for frying. Choose an oil with a high smoke point, such as sunflower oil or peanut oil. Heat the oil in a deep pan over medium heat. When the oil is hot (test with a small piece of dough – if it starts to sizzle, the oil is ready), it’s time to fry the doughnuts.

Fry each doughnut for 2 minutes on each side or until they turn golden. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan to allow the doughnuts to fry evenly. Once done, remove them to a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Step 5: Serving

Doughnuts are delicious both warm and at room temperature. You can sprinkle them with powdered sugar or glaze them with a simple sugar and water glaze. They are also excellent if filled with jam, chocolate cream, or peanut butter for an even more delightful experience.

Helpful tips:

1. Flour: Using a flour with a higher gluten content will help achieve a fluffier texture.
2. Yeast: Make sure the yeast is fresh. You can check this by dissolving it in warm milk; if it forms bubbles, it’s active.
3. Lemon: Lemon zest adds a refreshing aroma, but you can also experiment with other flavors, such as orange zest or even vanilla extracts.
4. Oil: Try not to reuse oil too many times, as it can affect the taste of the doughnuts.

Frequently asked question: Can I store the doughnuts?
Answer: Yes, doughnuts can be stored in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can warm them slightly in the oven to restore their freshness.

Pair these doughnuts with a flavorful coffee or a fruit tea, and the moment will be even more enjoyable.

The fluffy doughnuts made according to this recipe are not just a dessert, but a cooking experience filled with joy. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or simply to sweeten an ordinary day, your doughnuts will surely be appreciated by all your loved ones. Enjoy!