Lenten donuts with orange juice

Fluffy Orange-Flavored Doughnuts: A Lenten Delight

Who doesn't love doughnuts? These fried treats, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, are a pleasure for all ages. The Lenten doughnuts with warm orange juice that we will prepare today are not only a delicious option but also a surprising choice for those who think that Lenten desserts are bland. With an enticing citrus aroma and a fluffy texture, these doughnuts are perfect for a snack or a weekend dessert.

This recipe is not only simple but also versatile. If you already have your favorite doughnut recipe, you can easily customize it with different flavors or sauces. Let's see how we can turn a few simple ingredients into delicious doughnuts!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Frying time: 10 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Number of servings: 12 doughnuts

Necessary ingredients

- 750 g flour
- 11 tablespoons oil (plus oil for frying)
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 350 ml warm orange juice
- 200 ml warm water
- 2 cubes fresh yeast
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 teaspoon orange essence
- A pinch of salt

Necessary utensils

- A cup for rising
- A large bowl for kneading
- A spatula or wooden spoon
- A rolling pin
- A deep frying pan
- A plate or platter for serving
- Paper towels

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Activating the yeast

Start by activating the yeast. In a cup, add the 2 cubes of fresh yeast and the 2 tablespoons of sugar. Pour in 150 ml of warm water (not hot!) and gently stir until the yeast dissolves. Sprinkle a small amount of flour on top and let it rise for 10-15 minutes. Yeast is an essential ingredient for fluffy doughnuts, so make sure to be patient in this step!

Step 2: Preparing the dough

In a large bowl, sift 750 g of flour and add the salt, the remaining 3 tablespoons of sugar, and the zest of one orange. These ingredients combine perfectly to give the doughnuts not only a delicious taste but also an enticing aroma.

After the yeast has risen, add it to the bowl with the flour along with the warm orange juice. Start mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon, then gradually add the oil. Continue kneading the dough for 6-7 minutes until it becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your hands. If you feel it’s too sticky, you can add a little flour, but don’t overdo it! We want a soft and fluffy dough.

Step 3: Rising the dough

Once the dough is well kneaded, cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place, away from drafts. The dough should double in volume in about 1 hour.

Step 4: Shaping the doughnuts

After the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface until it reaches a thickness of about 1-2 cm. Use a round cutter or glass to cut out the doughnuts. Place the dough circles on a board or tray, leaving enough space between them to avoid sticking during the second rise.

Let the doughnuts rise for another 20-30 minutes, covered with a towel.

Step 5: Frying the doughnuts

Meanwhile, heat the oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. The oil is ready for frying when, if you drop a small piece of dough, it immediately rises to the surface. Fry the doughnuts until they are golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Use a spatula to carefully turn them.

Once they are ready, remove the doughnuts to paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 6: Serving

Your doughnuts are now ready to be enjoyed! You can serve them with blackberry jam, fruit sauce, or even with your favorite preserves. Another delicious idea is to sprinkle them with powdered sugar or drizzle them with melted chocolate.

Variations and useful tips

- Flavor variations: Experiment with different citrus juices, such as lemon or grapefruit juice, for a variety of flavored doughnuts.
- Adding spices: You can add a bit of cinnamon or vanilla to the dough for an even more aromatic taste.
- Filled doughnuts: Dare to fill the doughnuts with jam or chocolate before frying for a delicious surprise.

Nutritional information

Lenten doughnuts with orange juice are a relatively light option, having about 180 calories each (depending on the size of the doughnuts). They contain carbohydrates from flour and sugar, but also vitamins from orange juice, which provide a boost of vitamin C.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can replace fresh yeast with about 7 g of dry yeast. Make sure to activate it according to the instructions on the package.

2. How can I store the doughnuts?
Doughnuts are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them.

3. What drinks pair well with the doughnuts?
These delicious doughnuts pair perfectly with fruit tea, fresh orange juice, or even a creamy cappuccino.

These fluffy doughnuts with orange juice are an excellent choice for any occasion, whether it's a family meal or a gathering with friends. Surprise them and enjoy the delighted reactions of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!