Fried Doughnuts (Ciambelle Fritte) Recipe
Category: Desserts
Servings: 10 doughnuts
These Fried Doughnuts, or Ciambelle Fritte, are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Soft and fluffy on the inside, with a golden, crispy exterior, these doughnuts are finished with a delicious coffee glaze and a sprinkle of crunchy hazelnut granules. Follow this easy-to-make recipe for an irresistible homemade indulgence that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour (Type 0) | 300g |
| Whole milk | 130g |
| Unsalted butter | 30g |
| Granulated sugar | 40g |
| Dry yeast | 3g |
| Egg | 1 |
| Fine salt | 1 pinch |
| Peanut oil (for frying) | q.b. (to taste) |
| Coffee (espresso or brewed) | 40ml |
| Powdered sugar (for glaze) | 150g |
| Hazelnut crumbs (optional) | q.b. (to taste) |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Dough
In a small bowl, pour the milk at room temperature. Add the dry yeast and mix until fully dissolved. Set aside to activate. -
Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and butter. Add the egg and mix until you form a rough dough. Gradually pour in the dissolved yeast and continue mixing until everything is well incorporated. -
Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured work surface. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and knead the dough until it becomes smooth, elastic, and uniform. This may take 5–10 minutes. -
Let it Rise
Lightly grease a bowl with oil and place the dough inside. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 4-5 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size. -
Shape the Doughnuts
Once the dough has risen, transfer it to a clean work surface. Roll the dough into two logs and divide each log into 5 equal portions, resulting in 10 small dough portions. -
Form the Doughnuts
Take each portion and roll it into a ball. Cut 10 small squares of parchment paper. Lightly oil your hands, then flatten each ball of dough on a parchment square to form a disk about 8-10 cm in diameter. Using the bottom of a wooden spoon, gently press down in the center to create a hole, forming the classic doughnut shape. -
Second Rising
Allow the shaped doughnuts to rise for an additional hour, uncovered, on a flat surface. -
Fry the Doughnuts
Heat about 3 fingers of peanut oil in a high-sided pan to 170°C (340°F). Carefully place the doughnuts (a few at a time) into the hot oil, along with the parchment paper. The paper will easily peel away within a minute. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove the paper once it detaches from the doughnut. -
Cook Until Golden
Fry the doughnuts for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even browning. If they brown too quickly, lower the heat to prevent burning. When golden and crispy on both sides, remove the doughnuts and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. -
Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, sift the powdered sugar and slowly pour in the coffee, stirring continuously with a fork. Add the coffee in small amounts to avoid over-diluting the glaze. Continue stirring until you achieve a smooth, thick consistency. -
Glaze the Doughnuts
Dip the top of each doughnut into the coffee glaze, then flip it over onto a cutting board. Immediately sprinkle with crushed hazelnuts to add a delightful crunch. -
Let the Glaze Set
Allow the glaze to set and dry on the doughnuts for a few minutes before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- Oil Temperature: Be mindful of the oil’s temperature. If it’s too hot, the doughnuts will brown too quickly on the outside while remaining raw inside. If the oil is too cool, they will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Hazelnut Granules: If you prefer a different topping, consider rolling the glazed doughnuts in cinnamon sugar, sprinkles, or even chopped pistachios for a fun twist!
- Storage: Store leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For a longer shelf life, you can freeze them and reheat them in the oven for a fresh taste.
Enjoy your homemade Fried Doughnuts with a cup of coffee or tea. These soft, fluffy, and lightly crispy treats are perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a special dessert for any gathering. The coffee glaze and hazelnut topping elevate this classic recipe to something truly indulgent. Happy baking!
