Ingredients

• 500 grams of 00 flour (approximately 4 cups)
• 250 ml of milk (approximately 1 cup)
• 2 tablespoons of sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon of butter, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1 tablespoon of dry yeast
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Sugar (for coating)
• Seed oil (for frying)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a small bowl, warm the milk until it’s lukewarm (not hot). Add the dry yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar to the milk, stirring until dissolved. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the 00 flour, remaining 1 tablespoon of sugar, salt, and lemon zest. Add the egg and softened butter, mixing until the butter is well incorporated.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough in the bowl or on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
4. Let the Dough Rise:
   • Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Doughnuts:
   • Once the dough has risen, punch it down to remove any air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a round cutter to cut out doughnuts. If desired, use a smaller cutter to create holes in the center.
6. Heat the Oil:
   • In a large, deep pan, heat the seed oil over medium heat until it reaches 175°C (350°F). If you don’t have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough into it; it should sizzle and rise to the surface.
7. Fry the Doughnuts:
   • Carefully place a few doughnuts into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove the doughnuts with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
8. Coat with Sugar:
   • While the doughnuts are still warm, roll them in a bowl of sugar until they are fully coated.
9. Serve:
   • Serve the doughnuts warm, fresh out of the oil, or at room temperature. Enjoy them on their own or with a dip of chocolate or jam.

Cooking Tips

• Yeast Activation: Ensure the milk is not too hot when adding the yeast, as this can kill the yeast. It should be just warm to the touch.
• Dough Consistency: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency.
• Frying: Keep an eye on the oil temperature, as too hot will burn the doughnuts and too cool will result in greasy doughnuts.

Nutritional Benefits

• Lemon Zest: Adds a burst of vitamin C and fresh flavor without any extra calories.
• 00 Flour: This finely ground flour provides a tender, light texture to the doughnuts.

Dietary Information

• This recipe is vegetarian.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.

Nutritional Facts (per doughnut, based on 12 doughnuts)

• Calories: Approximately 200 kcal
• Protein: 4 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30 grams
• Fat: 7 grams
• Fiber: 1 gram

Storage

• Refrigeration: These doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the doughnuts in a warm oven for a few minutes to regain some of their original texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The lemon zest adds a refreshing twist to the traditional doughnut.
• Perfect Texture: The use of 00 flour ensures that the doughnuts are light, airy, and perfectly soft on the inside.
• Easy to Make: Despite their impressive appearance, these doughnuts are simple to prepare at home.

Conclusion

These lemon-scented sweet fried doughnuts are a delightful treat that’s sure to impress. With their soft, airy texture and crispy sugar-coated exterior, they offer the perfect balance of flavor and sweetness. Whether you’re enjoying them with a morning coffee or as an afternoon snack, these homemade doughnuts are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more. Give this recipe a try and experience the joy of fresh, homemade doughnuts!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of flour?
   • Yes, all-purpose flour can be used, but 00 flour gives a softer texture.
2. Can I bake these doughnuts instead of frying?
   • Yes, bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden.
3. Can I add other flavors?
   • Absolutely! Try adding cinnamon to the sugar coating or mixing a bit of vanilla extract into the dough.
4. How do I prevent the doughnuts from being greasy?
   • Make sure the oil is at the right temperature (175°C/350°F) and drain the doughnuts on paper towels immediately after frying.
5. 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.
6. Can I freeze the doughnuts?
   • It’s best to freeze the dough before frying. Shape the doughnuts, freeze them on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry them directly from frozen.
7. What can I serve with these doughnuts?
   • They’re delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with jam, chocolate sauce, or lemon curd.
8. How do I know when the oil is hot enough?
   • If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of dough into the oil. It should sizzle and float to the surface quickly.
9. Can I make mini doughnuts with this recipe?
   • Yes, simply cut smaller doughnut shapes and adjust the frying time accordingly.
10. Can I substitute the sugar coating with something else?
    • Yes, try dusting them with powdered sugar, or drizzling with a glaze made of powdered sugar and lemon juice.