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the best italian doughnuts

Best Italian Doughnuts

Author: Laura Bais
These Best Italian Doughnuts are perfect for any occasion, from casual breakfasts to festive gatherings. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful, fluffy goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Rising Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Italian
Servings 10 dougnuts

Equipment

  • 1 stand mixer
  • 1 pot for deep frying
  • 1 digital thermometer

Ingredients
  

  • 2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons fresh yeast
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 packet vanilla sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon rum
  • 3 egg yolks
  • 1 lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • Oil for frying
  • Powdered sugar optional

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Mixing with a Mixer: If using a stand mixer or hand mixer, combine all ingredients except the butter in the mixing bowl.
  • Cut the cold butter into cubes and keep it refrigerated until ready to add.
  • Mix until a ball forms, then add the cold butter and continue mixing on high speed until the dough is smooth and uniform, about 7 minutes.
  • Manual Mixing: If mixing by hand, place all dry ingredients in a large bowl and create a well in the center. Add the buttermilk, egg yolks, rum, lemon zest, and yeast. Mix until combined, then knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and slightly sticky. Cover and let rise for 45 minutes.

Shaping the Doughnuts

  • Forming Balls: Divide the dough into 10 equal pieces, each weighing between 50-60 grams. You will do that by "cutting" the dough with your thumb and forefinger without stretching it. Gently shape each piece into a ball.
  • Second Rise: Place the dough balls on a floured surface, cover with plastic wrap, and let them rise for another 15 minutes until puffy.

Frying

  • Heating the Oil: Pour about 3 cups of oil into a large pot and heat to 320°F (160°C). Maintain the temperature between 320°F and 340°F (160°C - 170°C) to ensure the doughnuts cook evenly without absorbing too much oil.
  • Cooking the Doughnuts: Carefully place the doughnuts in the hot oil, starting with the side that was facing up. Fry for 1.5 to 2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  • Finishing Touches: Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar or fill with your favorite cream.
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