You don't need a Doughnut making machine to make these Doughnuts and they can be plain, Iced or like these, filled with Jam.
I originally made these doughnuts as a Halloween recipe, filled with apple Sauce, but they are so delicious I decided that I would make them with Jam for a more traditional doughnut.
You can fill these doughnuts with any type of jam you fancy or you could fill them with cold custard as well, in fact doughnuts are delicious whatever is inside them as long as you remember to roll them in sugar before eating them.
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History of the Jam Doughnut
The jam doughnut, a beloved pastry enjoyed by many, has a rich and varied history that traces its origins back to the early culinary traditions of Europe.
While the precise beginnings of the doughnut are somewhat obscure, it is widely believed that the concept of frying sweetened dough can be linked to the Dutch settlers in America during the 17th century, who brought with them a recipe for "olykoeks," or oily cakes. These early versions were often filled with fruit preserves, which laid the groundwork for the jam-filled varieties we know today.
Over time, the jam doughnut evolved, particularly in the 19th century, when advancements in baking and frying techniques allowed for a more refined product. The introduction of commercial yeast and the development of the deep-frying method contributed to the doughnut's fluffy texture and enhanced flavour.
By the 20th century, the jam doughnut had become a staple in bakeries across the globe, with various cultures adding their unique twists, such as the use of different fruit fillings and toppings.
Today, the jam doughnut remains a popular treat, symbolizing comfort and indulgence, and continues to be celebrated in various forms, from classic recipes to modern interpretations.
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Serves: Eight
Tricky
Cook in: 30 mins
Prep: 2 hours
What equipment do you need ?
Kitchen Scales
Mixing Bowl
Pastry Cutter
Saucepan
Piping Bag
Spider Strainer
Title
Spider Strainer Skimmer Set 4.5 6.5 8.5 Inch.
3Pc Stainless Steel Fine Mesh Skimmer Ladle Strainer Utensil Set for Cooking.
£7.39 (Est.)
Piping Bag
A piping bag is a culinary tool used for decorating and shaping food, particularly in baking and pastry arts.
£2.38 (Est.)
Saucepan Set
3-Piece Stainless Steel Saucepan Set with Glass Lids – 16cm / 18cm / 20cm
£34.99
Plastic Mixing Bowl
3L Mixing Bowl For Baking Cooking Serving Kitchen Non Slip Base Dishwasher Safe
Metal Pastry Cutters, Pack of 3. Set Includes: 5cm, 6cm, & 7cm approx
£6.95 (Est.)
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What is a Doughnut?
A doughnut, often affectionately referred to as a donut, is a sweet, fried treat that typically comes in a ring shape, although there are many variations.
The classic doughnut is made from a dough that can be leavened with yeast or baking powder, resulting in a light and fluffy texture. There are countless types of doughnuts to explore, ranging from the traditional glazed variety, which is coated in a sugary glaze, to filled options like jelly or cream-filled doughnuts that offer a delightful surprise with each bite. Other popular styles include cake doughnuts, which are denser and often flavoured with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, and specialty doughnuts that come topped with everything from chocolate icing to sprinkles, or even more adventurous toppings like bacon or maple syrup.
Each type of doughnut has its own unique charm, making them a beloved treat for many, whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee in the morning or as a sweet indulgence any time of day.
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Variations of the Doughnut
Doughnuts come in an array of variations, each offering a unique twist on the classic treat.
From glazed and powdered to filled and frosted, these sweet confections can be found in countless flavours and styles.
Some are adorned with sprinkles or drizzled with chocolate, while others feature seasonal ingredients like pumpkin or apple.
Filled doughnuts, such as those stuffed with creamy custard or fruity jam, provide a burst of flavour with every bite.
For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, cake doughnuts, often flavoured with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, deliver a denser texture.
For the Doughnuts
Jam
7 g Sachet of Dried Yeast
550 g Plain Flour
75 g of Caster Sugar
310 ml of Full fat Milk
80 g of Salted Butter (Soft )
500 - 1000 ml of Vegetable Oil
For the Sugar Coating
75 g Caster Sugar
1 Teaspoon of Ground Cinnamon
In a bowl put 1 tablespoon of the caster sugar and 1 tablespoon of the flour and mix in the dried yeast.
Heat the milk so that it is just warm , then add the yeast mixture to the milk and mix in well with a fork. Set this aside for 10 minutes to allow it to 'wake up ' and react to the warm milk.
Put the soft butter , the remaining sugar and flour into a large bowl and rub in the butter with your hands.
Add the yeast mixture to the bowl and mix to a rough dough with a wooden spoon.
Continue mixing the dough with your hands then tip it out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until it is smooth.
Put the dough into a clean bowl, cover with a cloth and leave to prove for about 1 hr.
Remove the dough to a floured surface and knock it back, stretch and flatten the dough out.
Using a 2 " Round Cutter , cut 12 rounds of dough out. Put the cut doughnuts onto a greased baking tray, about 6 on each tray with enough space to allow them to expand. Cover with a cloth and leave to prove again for 45 minutes.
Cooking & Making the Doughnuts
Heat the Olive Oil in a pan to 160 c (No Hotter )
Using a slotted spoon put each doughnut into the oil (One at a time)
The doughnuts will take 6 minutes each to cook at this temperature.
Cook for 1 minute then with the 'slotted spoon turn the doughnut and cook on the other side for a further minute.
Turn the doughnuts every minute until they are golden brown (6 minutes)
Remove the doughnuts and drain on kitchen roll.
Cook each doughnut this way.
Filling the Doughnuts
Fill a piping bag with the jam and pipe into the side of each doughnut until it starts to ooze out.
Mix the cinnamon and sugar in a bowl and roll the doughnuts in the sugar to coat them completely.
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Chefs Tips for making Doughnuts
How long will Doughnuts keep?
Doughnuts typically remain fresh for about one to two days when stored at room temperature. To extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them in an air-tight container, which may keep them good for up to a week.
What type of oil is best for frying doughnuts?
Oils such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are excellent choices, as they can withstand the high temperatures required for frying Doughnuts.
What are some common toppings for doughnuts?
Common choices include classic options like powdered sugar, chocolate glaze, and sprinkles, which add both sweetness and texture. Other favourites are cinnamon sugar, maple glaze, and fruit preserves
What is the best way to serve doughnuts?
The optimal way to serve doughnuts is to present them fresh and warm, ideally right after they are made. This enhances their flavour and texture, making them more enjoyable. Pairing them with a selection of dips, such as chocolate or caramel, can elevate the experience further.