Brioche Donuts

Heavenly Delight Awaits: Mastering the Art of Brioche Donuts for Ultimate Indulgence

Embark on a journey to the realm of sweet perfection with our Brioche Donuts recipe—a culinary experience that transcends the ordinary and elevates the classic donut to a level of pure decadence. The secret lies in the indulgent richness of brioche dough, creating a melt-in-your-mouth sensation that will redefine your expectations of what a donut can be. Join us as we delve into the art of crafting these heavenly treats that promise to become a cherished favorite in your home.

Ingredients:

For the Brioche Donuts:

  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • Vegetable oil for frying

For the Sugar Coating:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Glaze (Optional):

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the mixture and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until foamy. This indicates that the yeast is activated and ready to work its magic.
  2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture, followed by the eggs. Mix until a dough forms. Incorporate the softened butter gradually, kneading until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
  3. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size. This initial rise is crucial for the development of the brioche’s rich flavor and airy texture.
  4. Shape and Second Rise: Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it to about 1/2 inch thickness and cut out donut shapes using a round cutter. Place the cut-out donuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
  5. Heat the Oil: In a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Ensure the oil is hot enough for the donuts to cook quickly without absorbing excess oil.
  6. Fry to Perfection: Carefully place the risen donuts in the hot oil, frying each side until golden brown. This should take approximately 1-2 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried donuts to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
  7. Coat in Cinnamon Sugar: While the donuts are still warm, toss them in a mixture of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon, ensuring an even and delightful coating.
  8. Optional Glaze: If you crave an extra layer of sweetness, whisk together powdered sugar, whole milk, and vanilla extract to create a glaze. Drizzle or dip the cooled donuts into the glaze, allowing it to set for a few minutes.

Cook Notes:

  • Be mindful of the oil temperature to achieve golden-brown donuts without excess oil absorption.
  • Work with softened butter for easy incorporation into the dough.

Variations:

  1. Filled Delights: Elevate your brioche donuts by injecting them with your favorite fillings—custard, jam, or chocolate ganache—for a delightful surprise in every bite.
  2. Nutty Crunch: Roll the warm donuts in a mixture of chopped nuts and sugar for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
  3. Citrus Zest Infusion: Enhance the flavor profile by adding citrus zest, such as orange or lemon, to the dough for a refreshing twist.

Keto Versions:

  • Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or a keto baking mix.
  • Substitute granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener.
  • Use a keto-approved glaze or omit it altogether for a lower-carb option.

Low-Carb Version:

  • Opt for a low-carb baking mix in place of all-purpose flour.
  • Choose a low-carb sweetener for the dough and coating.
  • Skip the glaze or use a sugar-free alternative to keep the carb count lower.

As you savor the irresistible delights of Brioche Donuts, let the layers of rich, airy brioche dough and the sweet embrace of cinnamon sugar or optional glaze transport you to a world of ultimate indulgence. This recipe is not just about crafting donuts; it’s a celebration of the artistry in baking and the joy of creating moments that linger on the palate. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the process, and let the heavenly aroma of Brioche Donuts fill your kitchen—an experience that promises to become a cherished tradition in your culinary repertoire.