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!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I bake these donuts instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake them at 180°C (350°F) for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown, but the texture will be slightly different from traditional fried donuts.
What is 00 flour, and can I substitute it?
00 flour is a finely milled Italian flour used for making pasta and pizza dough. You can substitute it with all-purpose flour, though the texture may differ slightly.
Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. You won’t need to activate it in milk first; simply add it to the dry ingredients.
How do I prevent the donuts from becoming greasy?
Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature (180°C/350°F) and avoid overcrowding the pan when frying.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and frying.
What if I don’t have a donut cutter?
You can use two round cutters, such as a large glass and a small bottle cap, to cut the donut shapes.
How can I add more flavor to the donuts?
You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough, or fill the donuts with jam or custard after frying.
How do I know when the donuts are done frying?
The donuts are done when they are golden brown on both sides and have puffed up nicely.
Can I glaze these donuts?
Yes, you can dip the cooled donuts in a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk, or any glaze of your choice.
How do I store leftover donuts?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze them for longer storage.
Enjoy making and indulging in these classic Homemade Donuts!
