Lenten donuts

Vegan Donuts – A Delight to Enchant Your Soul!

When it comes to simple and delicious desserts, vegan donuts hold a special place in the hearts of many. These little treats are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them plain, dusted with sugar, or pair them with a fragrant tea, creating the perfect indulgent moment. Moreover, vegan donuts are ideal for cooking together with loved ones, turning the cooking process into a joyful and memorable activity.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Frying time: 20 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Servings: Approximately 15-20 donuts

Ingredients you will need:

- 1 kg high-quality all-purpose flour
- 600-700 ml lukewarm sparkling water
- 200 g sugar
- 15 g salt
- 40 g fresh yeast
- 50 g margarine (at room temperature)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Powdered sugar for decoration
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 700 ml oil for frying

Step by step for perfect donuts:

1. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, add 40 g of fresh yeast and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Pour in 150 ml of lukewarm sparkling water and let the mixture sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, until the yeast becomes frothy. This is a crucial step for fluffy donuts, as the activated yeast will help the dough rise.

2. Preparing the dough: Sift 1 kg of flour into a large bowl. Make a well in the center of the flour and add the activated yeast, along with 200 g of sugar, 1 packet of vanilla sugar, 15 g of salt, lemon zest, and 50 g of margarine at room temperature.

3. Kneading the dough: Start mixing the ingredients with a wooden spoon or your hands. Continue to knead the dough for 30-40 minutes, until it becomes elastic and smooth. If you feel the dough is too sticky, add a little flour, but be careful not to overdo it. A well-kneaded dough will lead to fluffier donuts.

4. Rising the dough: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise at room temperature for 45-50 minutes, or until the dough doubles in volume. This is the perfect time to relax and think about how you will enjoy your donuts.

5. Shaping the donuts: Once the dough has risen, sprinkle flour on a clean surface and turn out the dough. Roll it out with a rolling pin until it reaches a thickness of about 2 cm. Using a donut cutter or a glass, cut out the donuts. You can also roll the dough into logs, fold them, and twist them for a more interesting appearance.

6. Second rise: Place the cut donuts on a floured baking tray and let them rise for another 15 minutes. This step will ensure a fluffy and airy texture.

7. Frying: In a deep pot, heat 700 ml of oil. Make sure the oil is not too hot to avoid burning the donuts. Test the oil temperature by adding a small piece of dough; if it rises quickly to the surface, the oil is ready. Carefully place the donuts in the hot oil, frying them on each side until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.

8. Draining the oil: Use a spatula to remove the donuts from the oil and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

9. Decorating: Once they have cooled slightly, dust the donuts with powdered sugar mixed with vanilla sugar. This detail will give them a sweet aroma and an appealing look.

10. Serving: Vegan donuts are delicious on their own, but you can serve them alongside fruit jam or with melted chocolate sauce for an extra touch of flavor. A cup of fragrant tea will perfectly complement this dessert.

Helpful tips for perfect donuts:

- Kneading: The more you knead the dough, the fluffier the donuts will be. You can involve the whole family in this process!
- Rising: Don’t underestimate the importance of rising! Allowing the dough to rise sufficiently will give your donuts an airy texture.
- Heating the oil: Use a kitchen thermometer to check the oil temperature, which should be between 170-180°C for ideal frying.

Nutritional benefits:

Vegan donuts, being made without eggs and milk, are an excellent option for those following a vegan diet. Additionally, the all-purpose flour used provides carbohydrates, while the natural sugar adds quick energy. However, it’s best to enjoy them in moderation, considering the oil content.

Possible variations:

If you want to add a personal touch to your recipe, you can incorporate flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even vanilla extract into the dough. Another delicious option is to replace the sugar with honey or maple syrup, resulting in donuts with a different and healthier taste.

Frequently asked questions:

1. What type of flour is recommended for donuts?
- Type 000 all-purpose flour is ideal for fluffy donuts, but you can also experiment with whole wheat flour or other types for a different texture.

2. Can I use olive oil for frying?
- While olive oil can be used, sunflower or corn oil is recommended for more efficient frying and a neutral taste.

3. Can I keep the donuts for the next day?
- Donuts are best served fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for a day or two. Reheat them slightly in the oven to restore their fluffy texture.

Now that you have all the necessary details, all that’s left is to get cooking! Vegan donuts are not just a dessert; they are also a wonderful way to bring family together around the table. So, enjoy and have sweet moments with your loved ones!