Doughnuts
Fluffy Homemade Donuts – a delicious and easy-to-make recipe
Total time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Number of servings: 20-25 donuts
Who hasn’t dreamed of a fluffy, steaming donut dusted with powdered sugar, bringing back childhood memories? These donuts are perfect for enjoying at breakfast, as a snack, or with coffee and friends. In this recipe, I will share with you the necessary steps to achieve the most delicious donuts, along with some tips and variations that can turn this simple recipe into a real feast.
The History of Donuts
Donuts have a rich and fascinating history, being a delight that has captured hearts and taste buds for centuries. From their humble ancestors, which were fried in olive oil, to the modern varieties we find today, donuts have continuously evolved. Nowadays, they are appreciated worldwide and are often associated with moments of joy and celebration.
Necessary Ingredients
- 750-800 g all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 30 g melted butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 50 g powdered sugar (for decoration)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 150 ml lukewarm milk
- 25 g fresh yeast (about the size of a walnut)
- 200 ml palm oil for frying (or regular oil)
Step by Step for Perfect Donuts
1. Preparing the yeast: In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of sugar, yeast, 2 tablespoons of flour, and a pinch of salt with lukewarm water. You should obtain a very thin batter, similar to pancake batter. Cover the bowl with a cloth and let it sit in a warm place for 25-30 minutes, until the yeast doubles in volume.
2. Sifting the flour: In a large bowl, sift the flour to improve its texture and remove any impurities. Make a well in the center of the flour and add the eggs, a pinch of salt, vanilla sugar, melted butter, and 150 ml lukewarm water. Then, add the prepared yeast.
3. Mixing the ingredients: Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix the ingredients starting from the center, gradually adding the lukewarm milk. Continue mixing until the dough becomes smooth, elastic, and no longer sticks to your hands. If it seems too sticky, you can add a little more flour.
4. First rising: Sprinkle a little flour on the working surface and place the dough there. Cover it with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour. A good idea is to put it outside in the sun – your donuts will rise beautifully and evenly.
5. Shaping the donuts: Once the dough has risen, divide it into portions the size of a tablespoon. Form round balls and place them on a greased work surface. It’s important to oil your hands to prevent the dough from sticking.
6. Frying the donuts: In a deep pan, heat the oil over moderate heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the donuts, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them on both sides until they become golden and fluffy. Use a spatula to turn them easily.
7. Finishing: Once the donuts are fried, remove them to a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Then, place them on a platter and generously dust them with powdered sugar.
Serving and Variations
These donuts are delicious on their own, but you can add a splash of flavor with jam, preserves, or melted chocolate. An original idea is to cut them in half and fill them with vanilla cream or whipped cream for a decadent dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use whole wheat flour?: Yes, but it will change the texture of the donuts, making them denser. A combination of white and whole wheat flour can be a good option.
- What oil is best for frying?: Palm oil is an excellent choice as it doesn’t produce smoke and leaves no odor in the kitchen. You can also use sunflower or peanut oil.
- How can I store the donuts?: It’s best to consume them fresh, but you can store the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature. Heat them slightly before serving.
Nutritional Benefits
These donuts, while delicious, are an indulgent dessert, so it’s good to consume them in moderation. The white flour provides carbohydrates that will give you energy, while the eggs and butter add healthy proteins and fats.
Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to start cooking! The aromatic delights of fluffy and crispy donuts await you. Enjoy and happy cooking!
Ingredients: 750-800 g all-purpose pastry flour, 2 eggs, 30 g butter, 2 tablespoons sugar, 50 g powdered sugar, 1 packet vanilla sugar, 150 ml milk, 25 g fresh yeast (about the size of a walnut), 200 ml palm oil for frying (you can also use regular oil)