Creamy Hazelnut-Filled Donuts

Directions

• 1 – Activate the Yeast:
  In a small bowl, combine the warm water, 1 tsp of sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 10 minutes until frothy and activated.
  2 – Prepare the Dough:
  In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, 15g of sugar, and salt. Add the eggs, warm milk, and yeast mixture. Mix until a dough begins to form.
  3 – Incorporate the Butter:
  Gradually add the softened butter to the dough, kneading until it is smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, you can sprinkle in a little more flour. Continue to knead for about 10 minutes.
  4 – Let the Dough Rise:
  Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
  5 – Shape the Donuts:
  Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface to about 1 cm thickness. Use a round cutter to cut out donut shapes, or shape into rounds if you’re filling them.
  6 –Second Rise:
  Place the shaped donuts on a tray and cover with a towel. Let them rise for another 30 minutes until slightly puffed.
  7 – Fry the Donuts:
  Heat oil in a deep pan to 170°C (340°F). Carefully drop the donuts into the hot oil and fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove from the oil and place on paper towels to drain.
  8 –Coat in Powdered Sugar:
  While the donuts are still warm, roll them in powdered sugar to coat them evenly.
  9– Optional Filling:
  If you want to fill the donuts with a hazelnut spread (like Bueno), allow them to cool slightly, then inject the filling into the center of each donut using a piping bag with a round tip.
  10 –Serve and Enjoy:
  Serve the donuts warm and enjoy the delicious combination of soft dough and rich hazelnut filling.