Puff pastries (vegan donuts)

Delicious Puffs (Vegan Doughnuts)

If you are looking for a vegan doughnut recipe that will delight your senses, then you have come to the right place! These puffs are more than just doughnuts; they are a culinary experience that will bring a smile to your face and satisfaction in every bite. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or at a party, these doughnuts are truly versatile and delicious.

A Brief History of Doughnuts

Doughnuts have been consumed for thousands of years, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Although shapes and ingredients vary from region to region, their essence remains the same: a fluffy dough, fried until golden and crispy, often dusted with powdered sugar for added sweetness. In the vegan version, these doughnuts use simple yet flavorful ingredients, so you won't even miss the milk or eggs.

Preparation Time and Servings

- Preparation time: 1 hour (plus rising time)
- Cooking time: 20-30 minutes
- Number of servings: Approximately 50 doughnuts

Ingredients

- 900 g of flour (type 000 or 550 for a fine texture)
- 1 cube of fresh yeast (42 g)
- 1.5 cups of warm water (approx. 375 ml)
- 0.5 cup of sugar (approx. 100 g)
- 0.5 cup of oil (approx. 125 ml, plus oil for frying)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (10 g)
- 1 teaspoon of rum essence (optional but recommended for a richer taste)

Step by Step for Perfect Doughnuts

1. Activating the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in 100 ml of warm water (not hot, as it will kill the yeast) along with a teaspoon of sugar. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is a sign that the yeast is active and ready to use.

2. Preparing the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the remaining warm water (about 275 ml), sugar, oil, salt, vanilla sugar, and rum essence. Mix well until the sugar is completely dissolved.

3. Adding the Flour: Sift the flour into another large bowl. Make a well in the center of the flour and add the yeast mixture and the water mixture from the previous bowl. Start mixing with a spatula or your hands until all the ingredients are combined.

4. Kneading the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it, as this will result in tough doughnuts.

5. Rising the Dough: Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

6. Shaping the Doughnuts: Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto the work surface and roll it out to a thickness of about 1.5 cm. Using a glass or a cutter, cut circles from the dough. Place the shaped doughnuts on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and let them rise for another 15-20 minutes.

7. Frying the Doughnuts: In a deep pan, heat the oil over medium heat until hot (about 180°C). Test the temperature by adding a small piece of dough; if it rises immediately to the surface and sizzles, the oil is ready. Fry the doughnuts on both sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Remove the doughnuts onto paper towels to absorb excess oil.

8. Finishing: Once all the doughnuts are fried, generously dust them with powdered sugar. These puffs are now ready to be enjoyed!

Useful Tips for a Perfect Result

- Water Temperature: Make sure the water is warm, not hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast.
- Frying Oil: Use sunflower oil or light olive oil, as they have a higher smoke point.
- Gluten-Free Option: You can experiment with gluten-free flour to make a more friendly version for those with intolerances, ensuring to add a binding agent like xanthan gum for good consistency.
- Filled Doughnuts: If you want to add a touch of originality, try filling the doughnuts with jam, Nutella, or cream cheese before frying.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use dry yeast? Yes, you can use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast. Use about 14 g of dry yeast and follow the same activation instructions.
- Can I store the doughnuts? Freshly fried doughnuts are the most delicious, but you can store them in an airtight container for 1-2 days. Before consuming, you can reheat them in the oven or in a pan to restore their fluffy texture.
- What drinks pair well with doughnuts? These vegan doughnuts are wonderful alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a fragrant tea. Additionally, a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice will perfectly complement the snack.

Nutritional Benefits

These doughnuts are a good source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy. The flour contains fiber, and using olive oil can bring healthy fatty acids into the diet. Of course, moderation is key to integrating them into your daily diet.

Serving Suggestion

For an even more appealing look and taste, try serving the doughnuts with a small portion of fresh fruit — such as banana slices, strawberries, or blueberries — alongside a chocolate or caramel sauce for a sweet treat that will delight everyone.

These puffs are more than just a simple recipe; they are an opportunity to create beautiful memories around the table, share joyful moments with loved ones, and bring a touch of flavor to less ordinary days. So, I invite you to try them and enjoy the magic of cooking at home!