Greek donuts with honey syrup and dusted with cinnamon

Greek Donuts with Honey and Cinnamon Syrup

Discover the authentic taste of Greek donuts, a delicacy that combines the fluffy texture of the dough with the sweet and fragrant aroma of honey and cinnamon syrup. These donuts are perfect for enjoying at breakfast, as a snack, or dessert, and are perfectly balanced to indulge your taste buds. I invite you to put on your apron and join me in this culinary adventure!

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Servings: Approximately 50 donuts

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 2 packets (14 g) dry yeast
- 540 ml lukewarm water (approximately 37-40°C)
- 15 g grated orange peel
- 15 g grated lemon peel
- A pinch of salt

For the syrup:
- 4 tablespoons honey
- 200 ml water
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- A few cloves
- Ground cinnamon (for dusting)
- Oil for frying

Preparation:

1. Making the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and dry yeast. Mix well with a wooden spoon to ensure even distribution of the yeast. Add the grated orange and lemon peel, which will give the donuts a fresh and revitalizing aroma.

2. Then, add a pinch of salt. It is essential to balance the sweetness with a bit of salt, so the flavor of the donuts is more complex.

3. Start pouring in the lukewarm water, a little at a time, continuously mixing with the wooden spoon. Use a circular motion, from the center to the edges, until all the water is incorporated and you achieve a sticky dough that pulls away from the spoon.

4. Letting it rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and place it in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1 hour. The dough should double in volume and have a bubbly appearance on the surface. If it’s summer, you can leave the dough on the balcony in a warm spot.

5. Preparing the oil: In a deep frying pan or wok, pour enough oil to cover the donuts. Heat the oil over medium to low heat. It is important that the oil is well-heated but not smoking. You can test it with a donut: if it rises to the surface and puffs up immediately, the oil is ready.

6. Forming the donuts: Dip a teaspoon in cold water, then take a portion of dough and place it in the hot oil. Repeat the process, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Turn the donuts once or twice until they are golden on all sides.

7. Draining: Use a slotted spoon to remove the donuts and place them on an absorbent towel, which will absorb the excess oil.

8. Preparing the syrup: In another container, add the water, sugar, honey, and cloves. Simmer over low heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture becomes homogeneous. Remove the cloves before pouring the syrup over the donuts.

9. Serving: Arrange the donuts on a high-edged platter and pour the honey syrup over them. Generously sprinkle with ground cinnamon for an extra flavor.

Practical tips:

- Ensure the oil is hot enough to avoid excessive oil absorption.
- If you want a more pronounced flavor, you can replace the lemon or orange peel with flavors like vanilla or nutmeg.
- These donuts are wonderful served warm, but you can also try serving them at room temperature, alongside a scoop of ice cream or chocolate sauce.

Nutritional information (per serving - 1 donut):
- Calories: 120
- Fats: 4 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Proteins: 2 g

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the donuts will have a denser texture.

2. How can I vary the flavors?
Instead of citrus peel, you can add rum or almond extracts.

3. Can I freeze the donuts?
Yes, you can freeze the donuts uncoated with syrup. When you want to serve them, just reheat them in the oven.

These Greek donuts are not only a delight but also a way to bring joy and warmth to the hearts of your loved ones. Try them and see how they quickly become the favorites of the whole family! Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 500 g flour; a pinch of salt; 2 packets (14 g) dry yeast; 540 ml water; 15 g grated orange peel and grated lemon peel (or any amount you prefer, depending on your taste, you can use just one of them); Syrup: 4 tablespoons honey; 200 ml water; 4 tablespoons sugar; a few cloves; cinnamon; oil for frying.