Grandma's donuts

Grandma's Fluffy Doughnuts

If there is a dessert that evokes warm and loving memories, it is doughnuts. This recipe, passed down from generation to generation, is simple and delicious. Grandma's fluffy doughnuts are perfect for fasting days or for moments when you want to indulge in a classic dessert made with simple ingredients but with extraordinary taste.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Frying time: 10-15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 35 minutes
Number of servings: 12-15 doughnuts

Ingredients

- 1 kg of all-purpose flour (ideal for cooking)
- 500 ml of spring water (or still mineral water)
- 1 small cube of fresh yeast (approximately 25 g)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 2-3 tablespoons of sugar (to taste)
- 1-2 tablespoons of oil (for kneading)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (or vanilla essence)
- Grated zest of one lemon (for a fresh taste)
- Plum jam or other fillings (optional, for stuffing)
- Oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for decoration

The Story Behind the Recipe

Doughnuts are a dish that appears in many cultures around the world, often associated with celebrations or family moments. However, grandma's fluffy doughnuts have a special note, tied to the love and patience with which they are prepared. Grandma would start her mornings thinking of her loved ones who would enjoy these delights. Whether served with powdered sugar or filled with plum jam, each doughnut was a little joy.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, add the sifted flour, which will help achieve a fine texture. In another container, dissolve the yeast cube in slightly warm spring water. Add a teaspoon of sugar to activate the yeast. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes until a foam forms on the surface.

2. Mixing the ingredients
Create a well in the center of the flour and pour in the yeast mixture. Add the salt, remaining sugar, vanilla sugar, and lemon zest. Mix the ingredients with a wooden spoon or your hands until they become homogeneous.

3. Kneading the dough
Once the dough starts to take shape, add the oil and knead well for about 10-15 minutes. The dough should be elastic and not stick to your hands. A grandma's trick: for a fluffier dough, let it rise in a warm place, such as near a heat source or on a stove.

4. First rising
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise for about 1 hour until it doubles in volume.

5. Shaping the doughnuts
After the dough has risen, take a piece of dough and form balls the size of a golf ball. Roll each ball with a rolling pin on a floured surface. Use a glass to cut out circles of dough.

6. Second rising
Let the shaped doughnuts rise on the work surface, covered, for 15-20 minutes.

7. Frying the doughnuts
Heat the oil in a deep pan. Make sure the oil is hot but not smoking. Place the doughnuts in the oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them until golden, then turn them over. When ready, remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

8. Serving
Doughnuts are delicious warm or at room temperature. Sprinkle powdered sugar on top and, if you like, fill them with plum jam for an extra flavor. Served with a glass of warm milk, they are a true delight.

Useful Tips

- Flour: Using quality flour with a higher gluten content is essential for achieving a fluffy texture.
- Yeast: Ensure that the yeast is fresh and active. A simple test is to dissolve it in warm water with a bit of sugar. If it foams, it is good to use.
- Oil: Test the temperature of the oil by adding a small piece of dough. If it floats and bubbles, the oil is ready.
- Variations: You can experiment with fillings, using melted chocolate, nuts, or vanilla cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dry yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast. Use about 7 g of dry yeast.

2. How can I make the doughnuts less greasy?
If you want a healthier option, try baking the doughnuts instead of frying them. Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the doughnuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for 15-20 minutes.

3. How long do the doughnuts last?
Doughnuts are best fresh but can be stored in a closed container for 2-3 days.

Conclusion

Grandma's fluffy doughnuts are not just a dessert but a true memory of childhood and family reunions. Whether you prepare them for a special celebration or simply to indulge on an ordinary day, these doughnuts are always welcome. Try this simple recipe and bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones! Enjoy!