Syrup-soaked doughnuts

Syrup-Soaked Doughnuts – An Irresistible Delight

Who doesn't love doughnuts? This popular dessert, with its fluffy texture and sweet-tart flavor, reminds us of childhood and family moments. Syrup-soaked doughnuts are an excellent choice to bring smiles to the faces of loved ones, turning any meal into a celebration of flavors. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step to achieve perfectly golden doughnuts, covered in a delicious syrup. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Number of servings: Approximately 20 doughnuts

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 400 ml lukewarm milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 packets of dry yeast (about 14 g)
- Zest of one lemon (make sure it is well washed)
- 30 ml oil (sunflower or any neutral oil)
- Flour as needed (approximately 600 g, but it may vary)

For the syrup:
- 400 g honey
- 200 g sugar
- 200 ml water
- Juice of one lemon
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (for added flavor)

Preparation

Step 1: Making the dough

1. Start by adding the lukewarm milk to the bread machine, followed by the salt and sugar. This step helps activate the yeast and achieve a fluffy texture.

2. Add 30 ml of oil and a few tablespoons of flour. Mix until the ingredients combine, forming a smooth paste.

3. Now it's time to add the yeast. Make sure the milk is not too hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast. Mix again.

4. Add the lemon zest, which will give a fresh flavor to your doughnuts. Continue adding flour until you achieve a medium consistency dough – not too soft, but not too hard either.

5. Once you have the dough, cover it with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour and 30 minutes. During this time, the dough will rise and become airy.

Step 2: Making the syrup

1. In a saucepan, combine the honey, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Place over medium heat and stir constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved.

2. Once the mixture starts to boil, reduce the temperature and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes until you achieve a slightly viscous syrup. Add the vanilla sugar for extra flavor. Turn off the heat and let the syrup cool.

Step 3: Frying the doughnuts

1. Heat the oil in a deep pan or wok. Make sure the oil is hot enough (about 180°C) to fry the doughnuts. You can check the temperature by adding a small piece of dough: if it rises to the surface and starts to bubble, the oil is ready.

2. Using a teaspoon, take small portions of dough and carefully place them in the hot oil. Fry the doughnuts on all sides until they are golden and crispy.

3. Once they are ready, remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil, then transfer them to the prepared syrup. Let them soak for a few minutes, ensuring they are well coated.

Helpful tips

- Pay attention to the oil temperature: If the oil is not hot enough, the doughnuts will become soggy and won't have a crispy crust. If it is too hot, they may burn on the outside, leaving them raw inside.
- Flavor variations: You can add various flavors to the dough, such as cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract, to customize the taste of the doughnuts.
- Serving: These delicious doughnuts can be served plain or accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream. A chocolate or fruit sauce can add extra flavor!

Nutritional benefits

Syrup-soaked doughnuts are a dessert that brings joy, and the ingredients used can offer certain benefits. Honey is a natural sweetener that contains antioxidants, while lemon is an excellent source of vitamin C. However, like any dessert, moderation is essential.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but you will need to adjust the liquid amount, as whole wheat flour absorbs more water.

How can I store the doughnuts?
It is recommended to consume them fresh, but if there are leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature. However, it is best to reheat them to restore their fluffy texture.

What can I pair the doughnuts with?
These doughnuts pair perfectly with fruit tea or flavored coffee. Additionally, a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside would make a delicious combination.

Syrup-soaked doughnuts are more than just a dessert; they are a culinary experience that combines tradition with the joy of sharing special moments. So gather your family and friends around the table and enjoy these fluffy delights! Enjoy your meal!