Elevate your donut game with these Fluffy Orange-Infused Donuts. The bright, zesty flavor of orange juice adds a refreshing twist to the classic fluffy donut, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. These donuts are soft, airy, and finished with a light dusting of powdered sugar, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and citrus. Simple to make and irresistible to eat, these donuts are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 350 g flour
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 2 tablespoons of oil (vegetable or canola oil)
- 90 ml orange juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
- 120 ml warm milk (about 100°F or 38°C)
- Pinch of salt
- 8 g dry yeast
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Frying oil (for deep frying)
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, mix the warm milk with the dry yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar.
- Mix thoroughly and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes, or until bubbles form on the surface, showing that the yeast is functioning.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the orange juice, egg, remaining 1 tablespoon of sugar, and oil. Whisk until well combined.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
- Add the flour and a pinch of salt to the wet ingredients, mixing gently.
- Pour in the activated yeast mixture and continue mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough:
- Work the dough on a floured surface for approximately 8-10 minutes until it achieves a smooth, elastic texture.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much, as the dough should remain soft.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Shape and Fry the Donuts:
- Shape the Donuts:
- After the dough has doubled in size, gently press it down to let out the trapped air.
- Roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1 cm (½ inch) thickness.
- Use a donut cutter or two round cutters (one large and one small) to cut out donut shapes. Gather the scraps, reroll, and cut out more donuts.
- Second Rise:
- Place the shaped donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes, or until they are puffy.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a deep frying pan or pot, heat the frying oil to 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil temperature by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
- Fry the Donuts:
- Carefully place the donuts into the hot oil, frying in batches. Fry each side for about 1-2 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the donuts from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Finish and Serve:
- Dust with Powdered Sugar:
- Once the donuts have cooled slightly, dust them generously with powdered sugar for a sweet, finishing touch.
- Serve:
- Enjoy these fluffy orange-infused donuts warm or at room temperature. They’re perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack anytime.
Conclusion
These Fluffy Orange-Infused Donuts are a delightful treat that combines the softness of classic donuts with the fresh, zesty flavor of orange. The light dusting of powdered sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness, making these donuts perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these donuts will surely become a favorite in your household. Try them today and savor the citrusy goodness!