Fluffy donuts

Fluffy Donuts

If you're looking for a recipe for fluffy donuts, perfect for treating yourself or impressing your loved ones, you've come to the right place! Donuts are a popular dessert, loved by many generations, with a rich history in culinary traditions around the world. Whether you enjoy them plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or filled with jam, donuts are a delight that reminds us of moments of joy and sharing.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 40 minutes
Frying time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 20-25 donuts

Ingredients:

- 500 g flour
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 150 ml warm milk
- 70 g sugar
- 2 eggs
- 30 ml oil (preferably sunflower oil)
- A pinch of salt
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- Grated zest of one lemon

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the milk is warm, but not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it. Fresh yeast is essential for fluffy donuts, so do not use dry yeast in this recipe.

2. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, mix 75 ml of warm milk with the yeast. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is a sign that the yeast has been activated and is ready to work wonders in your dough.

3. Combining the liquid ingredients: In another bowl, mix the remaining warm milk (75 ml) with the sugar, vanilla sugar, eggs, oil, and grated lemon zest. Whisk well until the ingredients are fully combined and the sugar starts to dissolve.

4. Mixing the composition: Add the yeast mixture to the bowl with the liquid ingredients. Use a spatula or whisk to combine everything.

5. Kneading the dough: Gradually add the flour and a pinch of salt, mixing constantly. When the dough starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl, transfer it to a floured work surface. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. You can add a bit of warm oil to your hands to make this process easier.

6. Rising the dough: Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for about 40 minutes, or until it doubles in size. This is the essential stage for achieving fluffy and airy donuts.

7. Shaping the donuts: Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. On a floured surface, roll each part into sheets about 1-2 cm thick. Use a glass or a cutter to shape the donuts. If you wish, you can make a hole in the center of each donut using a smaller glass.

8. Frying the donuts: In a deep pan, heat the oil to a temperature of about 170-180°C. It is important to test the oil temperature by placing a small piece of dough; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, it is ready for frying. Add the donuts to the oil and fry them on both sides for 2-3 minutes or until they become golden and fluffy. Do not overcrowd the pan, as they will need space to cook evenly.

9. Cooling and serving: Once the donuts are fried, remove them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb the excess oil. You can dust powdered sugar on top or fill them with jam, chocolate, or your favorite cream.

Practical tips:

- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add a splash of vanilla essence or a pinch of nutmeg to the dough.
- Donuts can be stored in airtight containers for 2-3 days, but they are best enjoyed freshly fried.
- If you're looking for a healthier option, you can bake the donuts instead of frying them, using a preheated oven at 180°C for 15-20 minutes.

Nutritional benefits:

Donuts are an indulgent dessert, and each donut has about 150-200 calories, depending on size and ingredients used. However, they provide a quick source of energy due to the carbohydrates from flour and sugar. Adding eggs offers a protein boost, while the lemon zest adds a touch of vitamin C.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
- Yes, you can use dry yeast, but make sure to use about 10 g (1 packet) and add it directly to the flour.

2. Why didn't my donuts rise?
- Check if the yeast is active. If you didn't let the dough rise long enough or if the oil is too hot, the donuts won't rise well.

3. What can I add to the donuts to customize them?
- You can add chocolate chips, raisins, or nuts to the dough before frying for an extra texture and flavor.

This fluffy donut recipe is not only simple but also very versatile. You can adapt it according to your preferences and enjoy the cooking moment, turning a simple recipe into an unforgettable memory. Enjoy!