These homemade fried donuts are perfectly soft, fluffy, and lightly coated with granulated sugar, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Made with a simple yeast dough that includes the zest of lemon and orange for a citrusy twist, these donuts are fried to golden perfection. They are great for breakfast, a snack, or dessert and are best enjoyed fresh and warm. Even novice cooks will find this recipe easy to follow and rewarding, with delicious results.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Ingredients
- Flour: 6 ⅓ cups (800g) – (half 00 flour and half Manitoba flour)
- Dry Brewer’s Yeast: 1 sachet (7g)
- Sugar: 1/4 cup (60g)
- Plain Yogurt: 1 jar (125g) at room temperature
- Warm Water: 1 ⅔ cups (400ml)
- Sunflower Seed Oil: 1/4 cup (60g)
- Grated Zest: 1 lemon and 1 orange
- Seed Oil for Frying: as needed
- Granulated Sugar: for coating
Directions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, mix flour, yeast, and sugar. Add yogurt, grated zests, warm water, and sunflower oil.
- Stir until a dough forms; knead for 8-10 minutes on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled.
- Shape the Donuts:
- Roll out the risen dough to about 1/2 inch thickness. Cut out donut shapes using a round cutter.
- Place cut donuts on parchment-lined baking sheets, cover, and let rest for 30 minutes to rise.
- Fry the Donuts:
- Heat oil in a deep pot to 170-180°C (340-350°F). Fry donuts in batches for 1-2 minutes per side until golden.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Coat with Sugar:
- While warm, roll donuts in granulated sugar until fully coated.
- Serve:
- Serve warm or at room temperature, ideal with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm for breakfast with a cup of coffee or tea.
- Pair with fresh fruit or a fruit compote for a balanced snack.
- Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for a sweet finish.
- Serve with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the oil temperature is maintained at 170-180°C (340-350°F) for perfectly fried donuts.
- Overcrowding the fryer can lower the oil temperature, causing the donuts to absorb more oil.
- Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature accurately.
- If you prefer a lighter coating, dust the donuts with powdered sugar instead of rolling them in granulated sugar.
Nutritional Benefits
- Donuts made with yogurt add a bit of protein and probiotics.
- The use of sunflower oil is a healthier frying option with a lower level of saturated fat.
- The added citrus zest provides a refreshing flavor without additional sugar.
- These donuts are free from artificial preservatives and flavorings.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for a vegetarian diet.
- Contains Gluten: Not suitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
- Contains Dairy: Includes yogurt, which is not suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals.
- Contains Egg: There are no eggs in this recipe, making it suitable for those avoiding them.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approx. 1 donut)
- Calories: 180
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 8g
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to crisp them up.
- Freezer: Freeze unfried donuts after shaping. When ready to use, thaw, fry, and coat with sugar.
- Avoid Refrigeration: Refrigerating donuts can make them stale.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The dough is incredibly soft and fluffy, with a perfect balance of sweetness and citrus zest.
- They’re easy to make and perfect for any occasion, from breakfast to dessert.
- This recipe is customizable; you can add different toppings or fillings to suit your taste.
- The donuts are made with natural ingredients, offering a delicious homemade taste that store-bought donuts can’t match.
Conclusion
These homemade fried donuts are a delightful treat that is sure to impress family and friends. With their soft, fluffy texture and sweet coating, they offer a delicious way to enjoy a comforting snack or dessert. The hint of citrus zest adds a unique flavor that makes them stand out. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use instant yeast instead of dry brewer’s yeast?
- Yes, you can use instant yeast. Just use the same amount (7g), and there’s no need to dissolve it in water first.
- Can I make these donuts gluten-free?
- This recipe specifically relies on gluten for its texture. However, you can try substituting with a gluten-free flour blend designed for yeast doughs, but results may vary.
- Can I bake these donuts instead of frying them?
- Yes, you can bake them at 180°C (350°F) for about 12-15 minutes or until golden. They won’t have the same crispy exterior but will still be delicious.
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of 00 or Manitoba flour?
- Whole wheat flour can be used, but it will result in denser donuts. For a lighter texture, you may want to use half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour.
- How can I add a filling to these donuts?
- After frying and cooling, use a piping bag to fill the donuts with jam, cream, or custard.
- Can I make the dough in advance?
- Yes, you can make the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and frying.
- What type of oil is best for frying?
- Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as sunflower oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil.
- How do I prevent my donuts from being oily?
- Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature (170-180°C/340-350°F) and avoid overcrowding the fryer.
- Can I freeze the donuts after frying?
- It’s best to freeze the shaped dough before frying. Fried donuts do not freeze well as they can become soggy when reheated.
- How do I make the donuts more flavorful?
- Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra flavor, or infuse the oil with a vanilla bean while frying.