Fluffy donuts

Fluffy Doughnuts: The Sweet Pleasure of Childhood

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 20 doughnuts

Fluffy doughnuts are a delight that takes us back to the simple moments of childhood, when their enticing aroma filled our homes. These little golden rounds are perfectly crispy on the outside and incredibly fluffy on the inside, and the combination of flavors from orange zest and rum essence gives them a unique and unmistakable taste. We invite you to discover this fluffy doughnut recipe, step by step, and enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience together.

Necessary ingredients:
- 700 g flour (preferably type 000)
- 120 g butter (soft, at room temperature)
- 40 g fresh yeast
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 15 ml rum essence
- 300 ml milk (warm)
- 5 egg yolks
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons lemon + orange zest
- Powdered sugar for decoration
- Melted chocolate (optional, for glazing)
- Colorful sprinkles (optional, for decoration)

Step 1: Preparing the dough

Start by preparing a clean bowl, where you will rub the yeast with the sugar. This step is essential, as the sugar helps the yeast to liquefy and activates the rising process. Use a fork or spatula to mix well until you obtain a smooth paste.

Useful tips:
- Make sure the milk is warm, not hot, so as not to kill the yeast.
- You can use dry yeast, but the amount should be about 14 g.

Now add the soft butter, egg yolks, rum essence, and orange zest, mixing with a spatula or your hands until the ingredients are well integrated. Finally, add the sifted flour together with the salt. This will ensure a fine and fluffy texture for the doughnuts.

Step 2: Kneading the dough

Roll out the dough on a well-oiled work surface. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes, until it becomes elastic and smooth. It is important to give time to this process, as kneading helps develop the gluten, essential for the structure of the doughnuts.

Step 3: Rising the dough

After you have finished kneading, place the dough in an oiled bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place, away from drafts, until it doubles or triples in volume. This process can take between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the ambient temperature.

Frequently asked question: What if the dough doesn’t rise?
If the dough doesn’t rise, it’s possible that the yeast is old or the milk was too hot. Make sure all ingredients are at the correct temperature.

Step 4: Shaping the doughnuts

After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly oiled work surface. Roll it out with a rolling pin to about 1 cm thick. Use doughnut cutters or a floured glass to cut out rounds. Place the cut doughnuts on a greased tray and let them rise for another 15 minutes.

Step 5: Frying the doughnuts

Heat oil in a cast-iron pot or deep frying pan. It is important for the oil to be hot enough so that the doughnuts brown nicely. Place the doughnuts top-side down and fry for about 2 minutes, then turn them to brown evenly. Use a spatula or fork to carefully remove them and place them on an absorbent towel to remove excess oil.

Step 6: Glazing the doughnuts

While the doughnuts are still warm, you can dip them in melted chocolate or dust them with powdered sugar. If you want a festive look, add colorful sprinkles for an extra touch of color and cheer.

Serving suggestion:
Enjoy the fluffy doughnuts with a glass of fresh milk or a cup of aromatic coffee. This duo will turn any moment into a celebration.

Nutritional benefits:
Doughnuts are a good source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy. However, it is best to consume them in moderation, considering the sugar and fat content. Adding citrus zest gives them an extra boost of vitamin C, helping you enjoy a delicious breakfast or snack.

Possible variations:
- You can add raisins or chopped nuts to the dough for extra texture and flavor.
- Replace the rum essence with vanilla essence for a different flavor.
- Doughnuts can be filled with fruit jams or chocolate before frying for a surprising taste.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can doughnuts be stored? Yes, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. You can reheat them in the oven to restore their fluffy texture.
- How can I avoid making bad doughnuts? Make sure to strictly follow the recipe steps and measure the ingredients carefully. The oil temperature is crucial for frying.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! Fluffy doughnuts are more than just a dessert; they are an experience that will bring a smile to your face. Enjoy!