Berlin doughnuts

Berliners – a fluffy and aromatic delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Frying time: 20 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 20-30 doughnuts (depending on size)

In a world full of desserts, Berliners stand out with their fluffy texture and sweet filling that invites you to savor them. These treats, often associated with festive moments or childhood joy, have a long and fascinating history, rooted in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Cook with me this simple and quick recipe to bring a sweet joy into your life and that of your loved ones!

Ingredients:

- 270 ml warm milk
- 50 g sugar
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 2 egg yolks
- 50 g melted and cooled butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 500 g flour
- Zest of one orange (for flavor)
- Oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for decoration

Step by step to perfection:

1. Activating the yeast: In a large bowl, add the fresh yeast, sugar, and warm milk. Gently mix with a spatula or fork until the yeast is completely dissolved. This step is essential to activate the yeast, and the mixture should become frothy after a few minutes.

2. Adding wet ingredients: Add the egg yolks, melted butter (make sure it is cooled to avoid cooking the eggs), and the orange zest. The orange aroma will add a note of freshness and make the Berliners even more delicious. Use a whisk to mix all the ingredients until they are evenly combined.

3. Incorporating the flour: Start adding the sifted flour mixed with salt gradually. You can use a spatula or a wooden spoon to mix. When the dough becomes too difficult to mix, switch to kneading with your hands. Knead the dough for 8-10 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 an hour, or until it doubles in volume. You can use this time to prepare squares of baking paper (~10x10 cm) that you will use to support the Berliners during frying.

5. Shaping the doughnuts: After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface. Knead it gently to release the air. Divide the dough into 20-30 pieces, depending on the desired size. Shape each piece into a smooth ball, then place them on the prepared baking paper squares. Cover them with a towel and let them rise again for about 30-40 minutes.

6. Frying the doughnuts: In a deep pot or pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the doughnuts; a simple test is to drop a small piece of dough into the oil – if it starts to sizzle and float, the oil is ready. Carefully drop the doughnuts into the hot oil, one at a time, so they don't crowd. Fry them on each side for 3-4 minutes or until they are golden and crispy.

7. Finalizing and serving: Remove the fried doughnuts onto an absorbent towel to remove excess oil. While they are still warm, generously dust them with powdered sugar. You can choose to fill them with jam, chocolate, or cream, according to your preferences. They will be a true indulgence!

Useful tips:

- Ingredient care: Use warm milk, not hot, to activate the yeast without destroying it. Also, ensure the butter is cooled before adding it to the egg mixture.
- Recipe modifications: If you want filled doughnuts, you can add apricot jam, chocolate cream, or vanilla pudding in the center of the dough before frying.
- Serving: You can enjoy the doughnuts alongside a fragrant coffee or a warm tea. Additionally, a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside these fluffy doughnuts can turn dessert into an unforgettable feast.

Nutritional benefits:
Doughnuts, although not the healthiest snack, can be enjoyed occasionally as a treat. The flour provides carbohydrates, while the eggs and milk supply essential proteins. The orange zest adds antioxidants and vitamin C, contributing to a balanced lifestyle.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast? Yes, you can use dry yeast. Replace 25 g of fresh yeast with about 7 g of dry yeast.
- Can I freeze the doughnuts? Yes, the doughnuts can be frozen. Make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in the freezer, and when you want to consume them, let them thaw and fry them again to make them crispy.

I hope you will try this Berliner doughnut recipe and enjoy every bite! Whether you serve them on a special occasion or simply as a personal treat, these doughnuts will bring a smile to anyone's face. Happy cooking!

 Ingredients: 270 ml milk, 50 g sugar, 2 egg yolks, 25 g fresh yeast, 50 g butter, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 500 g flour, grated orange zest, oil for frying

 Tags:  fluffy donuts