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Prepare the Dough:
In a small bowl, warm 250 ml of milk (not too hot) and add 1 tablespoon of dry yeast. Stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 500 grams of 00 flour, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix well.
Add the zest of 1 lemon to the dry ingredients for extra flavor.
In a separate bowl, whisk 1 egg and add it to the flour mixture along with the milk and yeast mixture.
Melt 1 tablespoon of butter and add it to the mixture.
Mix all the ingredients together until a soft dough forms.
Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Shape the Donuts:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
Roll out the dough to about 1 cm (1/2 inch) thickness.
Use a donut cutter or two round cutters (one large and one small) to cut out donut shapes from the dough.
Place the donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with a cloth and let them rise again for 30 minutes.
Fry the Donuts:
Heat seed oil in a deep pan to 180°C (350°F).
Carefully drop the donuts into the hot oil, frying a few at a time. Fry each side for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
Remove the donuts from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess oil.
Coat and Serve:
While the donuts are still warm, roll them in sugar to coat.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy the donuts plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Dip them in chocolate glaze or top with your favorite icing.
Serve with a side of jam or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
Cooking Tips
Proofing: Make sure to allow the dough to rise in a warm place to achieve the fluffiest donuts.
Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature at 180°C (350°F) to ensure the donuts cook evenly and don’t absorb too much oil.
Cutting the Dough: Use a floured cutter to prevent the dough from sticking.
Nutritional Benefits
Lemon Zest: Adds a fresh, zesty flavor and provides vitamin C.
Milk: Contributes calcium and protein, adding to the richness of the dough.
Egg: Adds structure and richness to the dough.
Dietary Information
Vegetarian: Yes
Dairy-Free: No (contains butter and milk)
Gluten-Free: No (contains wheat flour)
Nutritional Facts (per donut)
Calories: 250 kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 120mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 12g
Vitamin C: 2mg
Calcium: 20mg
Iron: 2mg
Storage
Room Temperature: Store the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Donuts can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, though they are best when fresh.
Freezer: Freeze the donuts (without the sugar coating) in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Classic Flavor: These donuts have a timeless flavor that everyone loves.
Soft and Fluffy: The 00 flour and proper proofing result in perfectly soft and fluffy donuts.
Versatile: You can enjoy them plain, coated with sugar, or with your favorite toppings.
Fun to Make: The process of making and shaping donuts is enjoyable and rewarding.
Conclusion
These Homemade Donuts are a delicious treat that you can enjoy at any time of day. With their soft, fluffy texture and the fresh zest of lemon, they are sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, a snack, or a special occasion, these donuts are a must-try. Enjoy the process of making them from scratch and the satisfaction of biting into a freshly made donut!
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