Baked donuts

Fluffy Oven Donuts with Chocolate Glaze – A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Who can resist a fluffy, fresh, chocolate-glazed donut? This baked donut recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you want to delight your family at breakfast, prepare a dessert for a party, or simply treat yourself. Here’s how to make these delicious donuts!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 12-15 donuts

Ingredients:
- 600 g flour (plus for rolling)
- 360 ml milk
- 35 g fresh yeast
- 2 eggs
- 75 g butter
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- vanilla essence
- a pinch of salt

For the glaze:
- 100 g milk chocolate
- 3 tablespoons milk
- colored sprinkles
- powdered sugar

The history of baked donuts is fascinating. These treats have evolved over time, from fried donuts to baked versions that are lighter and healthier. Donuts are a symbol of joy and hospitality, served during holidays and also on regular days to bring a smile to loved ones' faces.

Let’s get started!

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. The milk should be warm, not hot, to activate the yeast without destroying it. The butter should be melted but not hot. You can use unsalted butter for a milder taste, but salted butter will add an interesting note.

Step 2: Activating the yeast
In a large bowl, heat the milk over low heat, add the sugar, and stir until completely dissolved. Then, add the melted butter and fresh yeast. Mix well until the yeast is fully dissolved. It is essential for the milk to be warm but not hot; otherwise, the yeast will not activate.

Step 3: Making the dough
In another bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt. Add the milk and yeast mixture to the eggs and mix well. Now add the vanilla essence for a fragrant taste. Start gradually incorporating the flour, mixing with a whisk or spoon until you obtain a soft and slightly sticky dough.

Step 4: Proofing the dough
Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place, away from drafts, for 35-40 minutes or until it has doubled in volume. If you’re impatient, don’t worry; even without a complete proof, the donuts will rise beautifully while baking.

Step 5: Shaping the donuts
Once the dough has risen, divide it into 2-3 equal parts. On a floured work surface, turn out the dough and knead a little with some flour. Roll out a sheet about 1.5 cm thick. Use a glass or a large cup to cut circles from the dough, then, with a plastic bottle cap, make a hole in the center of each donut.

Step 6: Second proofing
Place the donuts on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and let them rise for another 20 minutes. This step is important for achieving a fluffy texture. If you don’t have time to wait, don’t worry; the donuts will rise in the oven.

Step 7: Baking
Preheat the oven to 170 °C. Bake the donuts for 20 minutes or until they turn golden, just the way you like them. It’s the perfect time to fill your home with the delicious aroma of baked donuts!

Step 8: Glazing
Once the donuts have cooled, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, melt the chocolate with the milk in a double boiler or in the microwave. Mix well until you obtain a smooth composition. Dip each donut in the chocolate, then sprinkle colored sprinkles for a festive look. Another delicious option is to dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant appearance.

Serving suggestions
These fluffy donuts go perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea. You can serve them as a dessert after a hearty meal or simply as a snack between meals. You can also experiment with different flavors in the glaze or even add fresh fruits to make them even more appealing.

Tips and variations
If you like to experiment, you can add some spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough, or you can replace some of the flour with cocoa for chocolate donuts. Additionally, you can fill the donuts with jam or chocolate cream before baking for a delicious surprise.

Nutritional benefits
These donuts are a lighter choice compared to fried versions, thanks to the baking method. Whole wheat flour can be used to add fiber, and using milk chocolate in the glaze provides a dose of antioxidants. It’s important to consume in moderation, considering that one donut can contain around 200-250 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I substitute fresh yeast with dry yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, just make sure to follow the instructions on the package for activating it.

2. How can I store the donuts?
The donuts store well in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them lightly in the oven or microwave.

3. Can I freeze the donuts?
Yes, you can freeze the unglazed donuts. Make sure to let them cool completely before wrapping them in plastic wrap.

I hope this recipe has inspired you to try baked donuts and share them with your loved ones! I look forward to more delicious recipes on my blog. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 600 g flour (plus for rolling) 360 ml milk 35 g fresh yeast 2 eggs 75 g butter 6 tablespoons sugar vanilla essence a pinch of salt Icing: 100 g milk chocolate 3 tablespoons milk colored sprinkles powdered sugar

 Tags:  oven donuts doughnuts oven glazed chocolate like at home recipes