Powdered doughnuts

Fluffy Citrus-Flavored Donuts

Let's turn our attention to one of the most beloved treats: donuts! These little fried wonders, with a fluffy texture and an inviting citrus aroma, are perfect for any time of the day, whether you choose to enjoy them at breakfast, as a dessert, or even as a sweet snack between meals. In this guide, I will present you with a step-by-step recipe, full of useful tips and tricks, so you can achieve perfect donuts every time.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 30 minutes
Frying time: 10 minutes
Total: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 20-25 donuts

Ingredients:

- 1 packet of dry yeast (about 7 g)
- 100 g margarine (or butter for a richer taste)
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons of sugar
- A pinch of salt
- Flour (about 500 g, but use as needed)
- Zest from 1 orange and 1 lemon
- About 300 ml of warm water (not hot)

Helpful tip: Make sure the water is warm, not hot, so as not to kill the yeast. An ideal temperature is about 37-40 degrees Celsius.

Step 1: Activating the yeast

In a small bowl, add the dry yeast, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and a splash of warm water. Gently mix and let the yeast activate for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This process is essential for getting fluffy donuts.

Step 2: Preparing the dough

In a large bowl, place the flour and make a crater in the middle. Pour the activated yeast mixture into the crater, then add the remaining warm water. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it sit in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until the dough doubles in volume.

Step 3: Adding the ingredients

Once the dough has risen, add the egg, margarine (melted slightly), the rest of the sugar, salt, and the grated zest of the orange and lemon. These flavors will make your donuts truly special! Mix the ingredients well, then start kneading the dough. Gradually add flour until you achieve a consistency suitable for shaping.

Step 4: Kneading

Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If the dough sticks to your hands, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it, as your donuts may become tough.

Step 5: Shaping the donuts

After the dough has been kneaded, let it rest for 10 minutes. Then, roll it out on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1-2 cm. Use a glass or a donut cutter to cut circles from the dough. You can use the scraps to make smaller donuts or shape them into different forms.

Step 6: Frying the donuts

Heat the oil in a deep pan to a temperature of about 180 degrees Celsius. Do a test with a small piece of dough; if it starts to sizzle and rises to the surface, the oil is ready. Carefully place the donuts in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes on each side.

Step 7: Finishing and serving

Remove the fried donuts onto a platter lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. While they are still warm, generously dust them with sugar, and if you wish, you can also add a bit of cinnamon for extra flavor.

Serving suggestion: These donuts are delicious served plain, but they can also be filled with fruit jam or chocolate. Serve them alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a complete experience.

Possible variations: You can experiment with different flavors by adding vanilla, almond essence, or even cocoa to the dough. Also, for a more exotic taste, try adding a splash of rum or orange liqueur.

Nutritional benefits: Donuts provide a quick source of energy due to the carbohydrate content from flour and sugar, while the egg and margarine contribute essential proteins and fats. Of course, it's best to enjoy them in moderation, but they will surely bring a smile to your face!

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, but the donuts will be denser. I recommend mixing whole wheat flour with white flour for a lighter result.

2. Can I make the donuts in advance? Yes, you can prepare the dough and keep it in the refrigerator. When you are ready to fry them, let the dough come to room temperature.

3. How can I store the donuts? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature, but consume them within 2-3 days to enjoy their freshness.

I hope this recipe inspires you to create delicious donuts and share the joy of cooking with your loved ones. Cooking is an art, and each recipe is an opportunity to experiment and add a personal touch. Enjoy!