Glazed donuts
Glazed donuts – a delicacy that entices us with its irresistible aroma and fluffy texture. When I think of donuts, I remember my childhood, the mornings when their inviting scent filled the house, announcing a day full of joy and smiles. It’s a simple recipe, but incredibly satisfying, which you can adapt based on the ingredients you have on hand.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 12 donuts
Ingredients:
- 500 g all-purpose flour (preferably type 000)
- 50 g butter, at room temperature
- 100 g milk
- 100 g sour cream (for extra creaminess)
- 1 packet of dry yeast (or 25 g fresh yeast)
- A pinch of salt
- 100 g sugar (for a sweet and pleasant taste)
- Grated zest of one orange (for a comforting citrus aroma)
- 100 g dark chocolate (for glazing)
- 3 tablespoons sour cream (for a smooth glaze)
Preparation steps:
1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help the yeast activate better. Start by measuring the flour, sugar, salt, and orange zest in a large bowl. Mix well to combine the flavors.
2. Activating the yeast: Heat the milk in a small saucepan until warm (not hot, to avoid killing the yeast). Add the yeast and one tablespoon of sugar from the total amount. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until a foam forms on the surface. This is proof that the yeast is active and ready to work.
3. Preparing the dough: In the bowl with the flour, add the soft butter and sour cream, then pour in the milk-yeast mixture. Mix everything with a spatula or your hands until the ingredients are combined. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and non-sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it.
4. First rising: Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place, away from drafts, for about 1 hour or until the dough doubles in size. This is the stage where your donuts will become fluffy and airy.
5. Shaping the donuts: Once the dough has risen, gently knead it to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface to about 1.5 cm thick. Use a glass or a pastry cutter to cut circles from the dough. In the center of each circle, use a small lid to make a hole so that the donuts have their characteristic shape. Let them rise for another 30 minutes.
6. Frying the donuts: In a deep pot, heat the oil to 180 degrees Celsius. You can check if the oil is ready by throwing in a small piece of dough; if it rises to the surface, it’s time to fry the donuts. Fry the donuts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden. Remove them to an absorbent towel to drain excess oil.
7. Preparing the glaze: In a bowl, melt the dark chocolate along with the 3 tablespoons of sour cream over a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring constantly until it becomes a smooth and glossy mixture. You can add a pinch of salt or a little vanilla extract to enhance the flavor, if desired.
8. Glazing the donuts: When the donuts have cooled slightly, dip each donut into the chocolate glaze, making sure it is well coated. Place them on a platter and let the glaze set.
Serving suggestions: These glazed donuts are delicious served warm alongside a cup of coffee or tea. You can top them with chopped nuts or coconut flakes for a more festive look. They also pair excellently with a berry sauce or vanilla ice cream.
Possible variations: You can experiment with different flavors by adding almond or vanilla extracts to the dough. Additionally, you can fill the donuts with fruit jam, vanilla cream, or chocolate before frying them.
Nutritional benefits: These glazed donuts are a source of carbohydrates and, due to the butter and sour cream, also bring healthy fats into the diet. However, like any delicacy, they are recommended to be consumed in moderation.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, but it will change the texture and taste. Whole wheat flour makes the donuts denser.
- How do I know if the oil is hot enough? Use a cooking thermometer or test with a small piece of dough; if it rises immediately, it’s ready.
- How long can I keep the donuts? It’s recommended to consume them the same day, but you can store unglazed donuts in an airtight container for 1-2 days.
These glazed donuts are more than just a dessert; they represent a piece of our memories, a moment of indulgence and joy. So don’t hesitate to get started and share these delights with your loved ones!
Ingredients: 500 g flour, 50 g butter, 100 g milk, 100 g sour cream, 1 packet of yeast, 1 pinch of salt, 100 g sugar, orange zest, 1 dark chocolate, 3 tablespoons sour cream
