Discover the joy of making your own baked doughnuts with this simple yet delightful recipe that eschews traditional frying for a healthier, oven-baked option. Each doughnut is crafted from a soft, sweet dough infused with a hint of orange blossom and then lightly coated with melted butter and sugar for a perfect finish. Optional fillings such as jam, chocolate spread, or chocolate pieces add a delicious surprise in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This:
These baked doughnuts offer a wonderful alternative to their fried counterparts, providing a lighter texture that doesn’t compromise on taste. The addition of orange blossom gives a subtle floral hint that enhances the dough’s flavor, making these treats uniquely aromatic. Whether you enjoy them plain or filled, these doughnuts are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without being overly indulgent.
Perfect Occasion:
Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as a comforting snack, these doughnuts are great for family gatherings, children’s parties, or simply as a treat to brighten up your day. They’re also perfect for festive occasions where you might want something special that’s not too heavy.
Decoration Tips:
For an extra touch of elegance, mix some cinnamon with the sugar for coating to add a warm, spicy note. If you’re serving these at a party or as a festive treat, drizzle them with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice. Sprinkles, edible glitter, or crushed nuts can also be added for a decorative flourish.
Ingredients:
- 320g wheat flour
- 150ml milk
- 40g sugar
- 40g butter, softened
- 1 egg
- 10g dry yeast (or 20g fresh yeast)
- 1 tsp orange blossom water
- ½ tsp salt
- For Coating:
- 10g melted butter
- Sugar (and optional cinnamon)
- Optional Fillings:
- Jam, chocolate spread, or chocolate squares
Method:
- Prepare Yeast Mixture:
- Warm the milk until it’s lukewarm. Dissolve the yeast in the milk and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Make the Dough:
- In a mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine salt, flour, and sugar. Add the egg, yeast mixture, and orange blossom water and knead on medium speed for 5 minutes.
- Add the softened butter and knead for an additional 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for 2 hours.
- Shape and Proof:
- Punch down the dough and form 50g balls. If using fillings, flatten the balls, add a teaspoon of your chosen filling, and seal them carefully.
- Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover them. Let rise for another 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Bake:
- Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 10 minutes.
- Coat and Serve:
- Let the doughnuts cool slightly. Then, dip them in melted butter followed by sugar (mixed with cinnamon if desired).
Enjoy these baked doughnuts, a delightful treat that combines the pleasure of homemade baking with a hint of artisanal charm!
