Oven-baked doughnuts

Baked Donuts - An Unforgettable Treat at Home

It is said that donuts are a symbol of childhood and joyful moments spent with family. This time, I invite you to discover a healthier yet equally delicious version: baked donuts. This simple and quick recipe will turn any ordinary day into a celebration of flavor. Get ready to amaze your family with these fluffy donuts that will disappear from the plate faster than you can say "delicious"!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 12 donuts

Ingredients you will need:

- 400 g of all-purpose flour, sifted (for a fine texture)
- 200 ml of lukewarm water (not hot, to avoid affecting the yeast)
- 100 ml of oil (preferably sunflower or canola)
- 2 tablespoons of sugar (to sweeten the dough)
- 20 g of fresh yeast (or 7 g of dry yeast)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (for an enticing aroma)
- a pinch of salt (to balance the flavor)
- honey (for the final glaze)
- shredded coconut (for a delicious finish)

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes! Whole wheat flour will provide a denser texture, but the donuts will taste fantastic. You may need to adjust the amount of water since whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.

2. What can I use instead of honey?
If you prefer a vegan alternative, agave syrup or maple syrup are excellent for glazing the donuts.

3. How can I customize the donuts?
Add chocolate chips, raisins, or even dried fruits to the dough for an extra burst of flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the yeast mixture: In a small bowl, add the fresh yeast along with a tablespoon of lukewarm water. Mix well until the yeast is completely dissolved. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes in a warm place until it becomes frothy. This step is essential for ensuring the donuts rise properly.

2. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the sifted flour, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix the dry ingredients to combine them. Add the activated yeast and lukewarm water. Use a spatula or your hands to mix the ingredients until you have a thick batter.

3. Kneading: Gradually add the oil and continue to knead. The dough should become elastic and not sticky. If it feels too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it to avoid tough donuts.

4. First rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until the dough doubles in size. This step is magical – it will fill your donuts with air, making them fluffy and light.

5. Forming the donuts: Once the dough has risen, sprinkle oil on the work surface and turn out the dough. Roll it out with a rolling pin until it is about 1 cm thick. Use a round cutter to cut out the donuts. Carefully place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

6. Second rise: Cover the donuts with a towel and let them rise again, this time for 10-15 minutes. You will see them puff up and become fluffier.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the donuts for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden and fluffy. It is essential not to open the oven in the first 10 minutes of baking to avoid letting steam escape.

8. Finishing: Once the donuts are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Meanwhile, prepare a simple honey glaze. Brush each donut with honey and then roll them in shredded coconut. This ingredient adds a crunchy texture and an exotic flavor.

9. Serving: The donuts are delicious both warm and at room temperature. You can serve them alongside a cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk. You can also add a teaspoon of fruit jam or preserves for an extra burst of flavor.

Nutritional Benefits:

These baked donuts are a healthier choice compared to fried ones, containing lower fat content. The flour provides complex carbohydrates, while honey adds natural sweetness. The coconut is rich in fiber and healthy fats, contributing to a balanced diet.

In conclusion, baked donuts are an easy-to-make recipe that can bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Experiment with various fillings and glazes, and each batch of donuts will be unique and delicious. Enjoy!