Brioche donuts combine the rich and tender texture of brioche dough with the deliciousness of a classic donut. Brioche is a French pastry dough that is enriched with butter and eggs, resulting in a soft, slightly sweet, and flaky texture. When used for donuts, it creates a unique and delightful treat.
Here’s a basic recipe for making brioche donuts:
Ingredients:
For the brioche dough:
- 1/4 cup warm milk
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
For frying:
- Vegetable oil
For coating:
- Granulated sugar
- Optional: Cinnamon for a cinnamon sugar coating, or powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- Activate the yeast:
- In a bowl, combine warm milk, active dry yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Prepare the dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, sugar, and eggs.
- Mix the ingredients until a dough forms. Then, gradually incorporate softened butter until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- First rise:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the donuts:
- Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface.
- Roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness and use a donut cutter or two round cutters (one large, one small) to cut out the donuts.
- Second rise:
- Place the shaped donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Fry the donuts:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large, deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the donuts in the hot oil, frying for about 1-2 minutes per side or until golden brown.
- Coat the donuts:
- While the donuts are still warm, roll them in granulated sugar, or a mixture of sugar and cinnamon for a different flavor.
- Serve:
- Allow the donuts to cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed fresh!
Feel free to get creative with toppings or fillings. You can add glazes, chocolate, or fruit fillings to customize your brioche donuts according to your preferences.
