These Heavenly Friar's Balls are the epitome of indulgence, a recipe that brings joy and sweetness to any moment. Perfectly soft and fluffy, these delightful dough balls are a hit with everyone who tries them. Made from simple ingredients that come together to create something truly special, this recipe yields 16 pieces of golden, sugary bliss.
Why You'll Love This: The combination of warm milk, fresh yeast, a hint of orange zest, and vanilla creates a dough that's not just aromatic but also incredibly flavorful. The process of double proofing ensures each ball is light and airy, with a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. Fried to perfection and then rolled in sugar, these treats are impossible to resist, offering a satisfying texture and the perfect balance of sweetness.
Perfect Occasion: Friar's Balls are perfect for any gathering, celebration, or as a special treat to brighten up your day. They're especially delightful when shared with loved ones over a cup of tea or coffee, making any moment feel more special. Whether you're celebrating a milestone, hosting a get-together, or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these treats will make any occasion memorable.
Decoration Tips: For an extra touch of elegance, consider serving these sugary balls on a beautiful platter, dusted with a little extra powdered sugar or drizzled with chocolate for those who desire a bit of decadence. Pairing them with fresh berries can also add a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
Ingredients:
- 300g ultra-fine flour
- 70ml warm milk (25°C)
- 50g sugar
- 1 room temperature egg
- 15g fresh yeast (or 4g dry yeast)
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- Zest of 1/2 an orange
- ¼ tsp salt
- 60g softened butter
- Plenty of oil for frying
- Sugar for dusting
Preparation:
- Prepare the ferment: Mix milk, 1 tbsp sugar, yeast, and 2 tbsp flour in a bowl. Cover and let stand for 20 minutes.
- In a large bowl, create a well in the center of the flour. Add orange zest around the well. Pour the sugar, prepared ferment, and vanilla into the center, mixing to combine. Add the egg and integrate fully. Transfer to a floured surface and knead, incorporating the softened butter halfway through until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it double in size.
- On a floured surface, divide the dough into 16 pieces, about 30g each. Roll into balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let rise again.
- Heat a generous amount of oil to 170°C (338°F). Fry the dough balls for 3-4 minutes per side until golden. They will float, so avoid moving them too much during frying.
- Roll the hot balls in sugar to coat.
These Heavenly Friar's Balls are not just a treat; they're a journey into a world of sweet, fluffy perfection. Enjoy sharing these delightful bites with friends and family, or savor them as your special indulgence. Enjoy!