Filled donuts

Stuffed Donuts - An Unforgettable Delight

What could be more tempting than a warm, fluffy donut filled with jam or chocolate cream? This classic stuffed donut recipe is not only easy to make but also a true treat for the taste buds. The origins of donuts are deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of many cultures, making them an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether you serve them at a party, as a dessert for a family dinner, or simply as a sweet snack, these donuts will bring smiles to everyone's faces.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 40 minutes (including rising time)
Number of servings: 12 donuts

Ingredients:

- 250 ml warm milk
- 1 egg
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 3 tablespoons oil
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 packets vanilla sugar
- Zest of one lemon
- A pinch of salt
- 500 g flour
- Jam (preferably apricot, raspberry, or sour cherry)
- Chocolate cream (for chocolate lovers)

Step by step for perfect donuts:

1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, pour the warm milk (not hot, so as not to kill the yeast) and add the fresh yeast. Gently mix until the yeast is completely dissolved. This is the first essential step, as the yeast will be responsible for the rise of your donuts.

2. Adding wet ingredients: Add the egg, oil, sugar, vanilla sugar, lemon zest, and salt. Mix the ingredients well, ensuring everything is evenly incorporated.

3. Incorporating the flour: Start adding the flour gradually, in a rain-like manner, constantly mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon. When the dough becomes too thick to mix with a spoon, you can start kneading it with your hands. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

4. 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 volume. This step is crucial for obtaining fluffy and airy donuts.

5. Shaping the donuts: After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured work surface. Roll it out to about 0.5 cm thickness. Use a glass or a special cutter to cut circles from the dough. In the center of each circle, place a teaspoon of jam or chocolate cream.

6. Sealing the donuts: Fold the circles, ensuring the filling does not spill out. Use a fork to press the edges, sealing the donuts. If you have a special pastry press, it can make this step easier and more uniform.

7. Frying the donuts: In a deep pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Check the oil temperature by adding a small piece of dough; if it rises to the surface and starts to sizzle, the oil is ready. Fry the donuts on both sides until golden, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan to allow the donuts to fry evenly.

8. Finishing: Once the donuts are fried, remove them to a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Before serving, dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant appearance and an extra touch of sweetness.

Serving and variations: These stuffed donuts are delicious warm but can also be served at room temperature. You can accompany them with a vanilla sauce or a scoop of ice cream. If you want to add a personal touch, you can replace the jam with a sweet cheese filling flavored with vanilla and raisins or even with fresh fruits.

Helpful tips:
- Make sure the milk is not hot, so as not to destroy the yeast. Ideal temperatures are between 35°C and 40°C.
- If you don't have fresh yeast, you can use dry yeast, about 7 g.
- For a more aromatic donut, add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough.
- Test the oil by adding a small piece of dough; if it floats and sizzles, the oil is hot enough.

Nutritional information (per donut, estimated):
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Protein: 3 g

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of filling?
Yes, you can use any filling you prefer, from jams and chocolate to sweet cheese or fresh fruits.

2. How can I store the donuts?
Stuffed donuts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them.

3. Can I prepare the dough a day in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for an hour before using it.

Don't forget to enjoy every step of making these stuffed donuts! Cooking is an art that brings joy not only to those who eat but also to those who create. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 250 ml milk, 1 egg, 25 g fresh yeast, 3 tablespoons oil, 2 tablespoons sugar, 2 packets vanilla sugar, grated lemon zest, a pinch of salt, 500 g flour, jam, chocolate cream