DOUGHNUTS

Fluffy and fragrant doughnuts: a heartfelt recipe

Who doesn't love warm doughnuts, dusted with powdered sugar, embracing you with their sweet aroma? Doughnuts are a traditional dessert, adored by generations, blending childhood joy with moments of indulgence. Whether served at breakfast, as a dessert, or as a delicious snack, these fluffy doughnuts will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Let's begin our culinary journey!

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 10-15 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12 doughnuts

Ingredients:

1 kg of flour
350 g of yogurt
350 ml of milk
3 tablespoons of sugar
50 ml of oil (plus oil for frying)
1 pinch of salt
1 packet of vanilla sugar
Grated zest of 1 lemon
1 whole egg + 1 yolk
50 g of fresh yeast (or 2 packets of dry yeast)
Powdered sugar for serving

Preparing the ingredients

Before starting, make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help activate the yeast and make the dough fluffier. Fresh yeast is preferred for its intense aroma, but dry yeast is just as effective. If using dry yeast, add it directly to the flour.

Strengths of the recipe

These doughnuts are easy to make and do not require advanced cooking skills. The dough is soft and fluffy, and the combination of yogurt and milk gives them the perfect texture. Additionally, the lemon zest adds a fresh note, while the powdered sugar at the end transforms them into a delight.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of milk?
Yes, you can use plant-based milk (almond, soy, etc.) for a lactose-free version.

2. How can I store the doughnuts?
It's best to consume them immediately, but if you want to keep them, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

3. Can I add other flavors?
Of course! You can add rum essence, cinnamon, or even cocoa to the dough for a flavored doughnut variant.

Making the doughnuts

Step 1: Heating the wet ingredients
In a small pot, add the yogurt, milk, and oil. Gently heat them until warm, without boiling. Then, add the sugar and stir well until completely dissolved.

Step 2: Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, dry yeast, vanilla sugar, and lemon zest. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the whole egg plus the yolk. Pour the warm mixture of yogurt, milk, and oil into the well.

Step 3: Kneading the dough
With your hands, start kneading the dough. It will be a bit sticky, but don't worry, continue kneading until you achieve a homogeneous dough, but not too hard. This is the key to fluffy doughnuts!

Step 4: Letting it rise
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise for 45 minutes in a warm place, away from drafts. The dough will significantly increase in size, becoming fluffy and airy.

Step 5: Shaping the doughnuts
Once the dough has risen, sprinkle a little flour on the work surface and remove it from the bowl. Roll it out with a rolling pin into a thick sheet of no more than 1 cm. Use a glass or a mold to cut circles from the dough. You can experiment with different shapes if you like.

Step 6: Second rise
Place the cut doughnuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, allowing them to rise for another 20 minutes. This step is important for achieving fluffier doughnuts.

Step 7: Frying
In a deep skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. The doughnuts fry very quickly, so be careful not to leave them too long on the heat. Fry them on each side until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Remove them to a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Step 8: Serving
When the doughnuts are still warm, roll them in powdered sugar. This detail makes them even more delicious! You can serve them simply or accompany them with jam, melted chocolate, or whipped cream.

Serving suggestions

These doughnuts pair perfectly with a warm tea or a creamy cappuccino. You can also create a small platter with various toppings, such as fruit jam or caramel sauce, to turn it into an interactive experience.

Possible variations

To add a twist to the recipe, try incorporating pieces of chocolate or candied fruit into the dough. Doughnuts filled with jam or chocolate are incredibly popular and add a surprising note to every bite.

Nutritional benefits

Homemade doughnuts have an advantage over store-bought ones, as you can control the ingredients and their quality. Yogurt adds protein, and lemon zest provides antioxidants. However, consume them in moderation, as they are still a dessert rich in carbohydrates and sugar.

Conclusion

These fluffy doughnuts are an excellent choice for any occasion, whether it's a family gathering or just an evening of indulgence. With each bite, you'll enjoy a perfect combination of taste and texture that will transport you back in time to moments when doughnuts were a symbol of joy. Don't hesitate to experiment with ingredients and put your personal touch on the recipe! Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and the delicious results!

 Ingredients: 1 kg flour, 350g yogurt, 350ml milk, a pinch of salt, 3 tablespoons sugar, 50ml oil, 1 packet vanilla sugar, grated zest of 1 lemon, 1 whole egg plus 1 yolk, 50g yeast (or 2 packets of dry yeast), oil for frying, powdered sugar for serving.