Fluffy Donuts

Fluffy donuts are a true delicacy that finds a place in everyone's heart, regardless of age. This simple yet flavorful recipe will turn an ordinary day into a celebration of taste. Donuts are more than just a dessert; they are a symbol of joy and moments spent together with loved ones. Whether you enjoy them at breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or at a party, these donuts will always be appreciated.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour (or until the dough doubles in volume)
Frying time: 10-15 minutes
Number of servings: 12-15 donuts

The necessary ingredients are simple and easy to find. Here’s what you will need:

- 500 g all-purpose flour
- 200 ml lukewarm milk (not hot, to avoid killing the yeast)
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 1 packet of dry yeast (20 g)
- 2 large eggs
- 4 tablespoons butter (melted and slightly cooled)
- Oil for frying
- Powdered sugar with vanilla flavor for decoration

Making these fluffy donuts is not only a pleasant activity but also a great opportunity to spend time in the kitchen, letting your creativity shine. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, add the sifted flour. Make a well in the center, where you will add the wet ingredients. Pour the lukewarm milk into this well, then add the yeast (make sure it is active), sugar, vanilla sugar, eggs, and melted butter. Using a spatula or a wooden spoon, mix the ingredients until they form a uniform dough.

Step 2: Kneading the dough
Once the ingredients are well combined, start kneading the dough on a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 10 minutes, until the dough becomes elastic and slightly softer. It is important not to add too much flour, as the donuts will become fluffier if the dough remains slightly moist.

Step 3: Letting the dough rise
Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil and cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in volume. This process is essential for achieving fluffy and airy donuts.

Step 4: Shaping the donuts
After the dough has risen, transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out to a thickness of about 1-2 cm. Using a glass or a cutting ring, cut out circles from the dough. Place them on a board and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes, covered with a towel.

Step 5: Frying the donuts
In a deep pan, heat the oil to medium temperature. Check if the oil is hot enough to fry the donuts by adding a small piece of dough. If it rises to the surface and starts to sizzle, it’s time to add the donuts. Place the donuts with the smooth side down. Fry them until golden, then flip them to the other side. Use a spatula to carefully turn them.

Step 6: Finishing the donuts
Once the donuts are fried, remove them to absorbent towels to get rid of excess oil. Then, generously dust them with powdered sugar with vanilla flavor.

Serving suggestions
These fluffy donuts can be served plain or with fruit jam, chocolate, or delicious ice cream. Offer them alongside a cup of fragrant tea or coffee for a complete experience. You can also try adding a bit of cinnamon or lemon zest to the dough for an even more intense flavor.

Tips and useful advice
- Use good quality flour, as this will influence the texture of the donuts. High-protein flour provides better structure.
- Ensure that the yeast is active; check the expiration date. If you want to use fresh yeast, use about 25 g.
- Do not fry the donuts at too high a temperature, as they will brown quickly on the outside but remain raw inside.

Nutritional values (per donut)
Calories: approximately 180
Protein: 3 g
Carbohydrates: 25 g
Fats: 8 g

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I substitute milk with a plant-based alternative?
Yes, you can use almond, soy, or coconut milk, but make sure it is unsweetened to maintain the correct sugar proportions.

2. How can I make the donuts healthier?
Try reducing the amount of sugar or using natural sweeteners. Also, frying in coconut oil can add interesting flavors and nutritional benefits.

3. Are there variations of the recipe?
Sure! You can add cocoa to the dough for chocolate donuts or raisins and nuts for added texture. You can also fill the donuts with chocolate or vanilla cream before frying.

Fluffy donuts are not just a dessert but also a pleasant childhood memory and a reason for joy every day. Experiment with the ingredients and add your personal touch; your donuts will surely become favorites among your loved ones!