Soft and Fluffy Mini Donuts: A Delightful French Pastry Treat

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Introduction

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these irresistible mini donuts that bring the warmth of French patisserie right to your kitchen. Perfectly golden, light as air, and dusted with powdered sugar, these little delights are sure to become a family favorite for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack.

Ingredients (Makes 6 servings)

Donut Dough

  • 300g all-purpose flour
  • 50g powdered sugar
  • 1 packet dry baker’s yeast (approximately 7g)
  • 1 pinch of salt
  • 1 large egg
  • 100ml lukewarm milk
  • 30g melted butter, cooled
  • Vegetable or peanut oil for frying
  • Powdered sugar for coating

Detailed Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  • Mix dry yeast with lukewarm milk
  • Let stand for 5 minutes to activate

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt
  • Create a well in the center
  • Add beaten egg, melted butter, and yeast-milk mixture
  • Knead by hand or with a mixer for 5-10 minutes
  • Dough should be soft and slightly sticky

Step 3: First Proof

  • Form dough into a ball
  • Cover bowl with a clean kitchen towel
  • Let rest in a warm place for 1 hour
  • Dough should double in volume

Step 4: Shape the Donuts

  • Gently deflate the dough
  • Pinch off small pieces (walnut-sized)
  • Roll into small balls

Step 5: Frying

  • Heat oil to 170°C (340°F)
  • Fry donuts in small batches
  • Cook 2-3 minutes, turning midway
  • Drain on absorbent paper

Step 6: Finishing

  • Roll warm donuts in powdered sugar
  • Serve immediately

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (3-4 mini donuts):

  • Calories: 250
  • Protein: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Sugar: 8g

Preparation Time: 30 minutes Resting Time: 1 hour Cooking Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Expert Cooking Tips and Tricks

  1. Use a thermometer to check oil temperature
  2. Test oil temperature with a small dough piece
  3. Don’t overcrowd the frying pan
  4. Maintain consistent oil temperature
  5. Drain excess oil thoroughly

Delicious Variations and Substitutions

  • Add vanilla extract to the dough
  • Flavor with orange blossom water
  • Fill with jam or pastry cream
  • Try chocolate or cinnamon sugar coating
  • Use alternative flour for gluten-free version

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make the dough in advance? Prepare dough night before, refrigerate, and let come to room temperature before frying.

Q2: How do I know when donuts are cooked? Golden brown exterior, approximately 2-3 minutes per batch.

Q3: Can I bake instead of fry? Baking will change texture, but possible at 180°C for 10-12 minutes.

Q4: How long do these donuts stay fresh? Best consumed same day, store in airtight container.

Q5: Can I freeze the dough? Freeze unbaked dough balls, thaw, and then fry.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Store at room temperature in sealed container
  • Best within 24 hours
  • Reheat at 150°C for 5 minutes
  • Do not refrigerate to maintain softness
  • Consume within 2 days

Bon appétit!