Doughnuts with jam for Lent
Donuts with Jam for Lent
Who doesn't love fluffy, warm, and aromatic donuts? These delights are a perfect choice, especially when we want to indulge without breaking the rules of Lent. The recipe for donuts with jam is simple yet very satisfying. Here’s how you can prepare them step by step to create an unforgettable dessert!
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 35 minutes
Number of servings: 12-15 donuts
Ingredients:
- 1 kg of wheat flour (preferably type 650 for a finer texture)
- 1 cube of fresh yeast (about 25 g)
- 1 teaspoon of sugar (to activate the yeast)
- 1 cube of margarine (about 250 g, to add a rich flavor)
- Grated zest of one orange (about 1 teaspoon, for flavor)
- Warm water (about 350 ml, the amount may vary depending on the type of flour)
- Jam for filling (about 300 g; you can use plum, apricot, or blackberry jam, depending on your preferences)
- Granulated sugar or powdered sugar for dusting the donuts (about 200 g)
Preparation steps:
1. Activating the yeast: In a deep bowl, add the flour and make a well in the center. Crumble the fresh yeast into this well and add the teaspoon of sugar. Pour in a little warm water (not hot!) and mix gently until the yeast dissolves. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it sit in a warm place for about 10-15 minutes, until the yeast becomes frothy. This step is essential to ensure good rising of the donuts.
2. Preparing the dough: Once the yeast mixture has risen, add the rest of the ingredients: melted margarine (but not hot), orange zest, and warm water. Mix everything with a spatula or your hands until you get a smooth dough. The dough should be elastic and not stick to your hands. If it is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.
3. Rising the dough: Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until the dough doubles in volume. It is important to respect this step to achieve fluffy donuts.
4. Shaping the donuts: Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface until it reaches a thickness of about 1 cm. Cut circles with a glass. On half of the circles, place a teaspoon of jam, then cover them with the other circles of dough. Gently press the edges to seal the filling.
5. Frying to perfection: Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Check the oil temperature with a simple test: drop a small piece of dough into the oil; if it rises to the surface and starts to sizzle, it’s ready. Fry the donuts on each side for 2-3 minutes, or until golden. Remove them with a spatula and let them drain on a paper towel.
6. Finishing: When the donuts have cooled, generously dust them with granulated sugar or powdered sugar, as preferred. Here you can add a personal touch by sprinkling a little cinnamon for extra flavor.
Useful tips:
- You can experiment with different types of jam, such as sour cherry or raspberry jam, which offer a pleasant acidity and contrast nicely with the sweetness.
- If you want a healthier version, you can use sugar-free jam or replace the margarine with coconut oil.
- The donuts can be served warm, alongside a fragrant coffee or a fruit tea.
- If you want to save them for later, you can freeze them; they will keep well for up to 1 month.
Nutritional benefits:
These donuts are a source of carbohydrates, providing an energy boost. The orange zest adds a supply of vitamins and antioxidants, while the jam can provide fiber, depending on the type of fruit used. Ideal for a sweet snack during Lent!
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use dry yeast? Yes, you can use about 7 g of dry yeast instead of fresh yeast, but make sure to activate it according to the instructions on the package.
2. How can I prevent the donuts from absorbing too much oil? Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the donuts and don’t overcrowd the pan, so the temperature remains constant.
3. Can I make the donuts gluten-free? Yes, you can replace the wheat flour with a gluten-free flour, but the recipe may require adjustments in the amount of liquid.
These donuts with jam for Lent are not only a tasty treat but also an opportunity to share joyful moments with loved ones. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, as a dessert, or during a lazy afternoon, each bite is an explosion of flavor and nostalgia. So, don’t hesitate! Put on your apron and start your culinary adventure!
Ingredients: 1 kg flour, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 cube of yeast, 1 cube of margarine, 1 teaspoon grated orange peel, warm water, 200 g granulated sugar for dusting the donuts.
