Decadent Portuguese Doughnuts (Sonhos) are a delightful treat that bring the warmth of traditional Portuguese cuisine straight into your kitchen. Each bite is a pillowy, airy morsel of sweetness that melts in your mouth, adorned with a dusting of sugar and a hint of lemon. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack, these doughnuts are not just delicious; they’re made with love and nostalgia. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that you can easily replicate at home!
Why Make This Decadent Portuguese Doughnuts (Sonhos) You Can Make at Home
Making Decadent Portuguese Doughnuts (Sonhos) at home is a rewarding experience. They’re perfect for impressing guests at brunch or simply treating yourself to something special. The wonderful combination of light and airy texture paired with a subtle lemon flavor makes these doughnuts unforgettable. Plus, there’s something truly special about creating these lovely morsels from scratch, filling your home with heavenly aromas that remind you of cozy afternoons.
How to Make Decadent Portuguese Doughnuts (Sonhos) You Can Make at Home
Creating these doughnuts is easy and fun! It involves simple ingredients that come together to form a dough that puffs beautifully when fried. Follow the steps below to capture the essence of Portuguese culinary heritage in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water – acts as the base, providing moisture for the dough.
- 1/4 cup butter – adds richness and creates a tender texture.
- 1 tablespoon granulated white sugar – enhances sweetness, balancing flavors.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – forms the structure of the doughnuts.
- 4 large eggs – contribute to the fluffiness and richness of the dough.
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract – infuses a bright, refreshing flavor that elevates the doughnuts.
- Pinch salt – enhances sweetness and overall flavor.
- Canola oil – used for frying, ensures crispiness without overwhelming flavors.
- Granulated white sugar – for rolling the warm doughnuts, adds a delightful sweetness.
Directions:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the water, butter, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Heat over medium heat until the mixture begins to boil.
- Once boiling, remove it from the heat and stir in the all-purpose flour and salt until a dough forms. This should be a smooth ball that pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Let the dough cool for about 5 minutes. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The dough will be smooth and glossy when fully combined.
- Stir in the lemon extract for that refreshing note.
- Heat canola oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). You can test the heat by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil—it should sizzle immediately.
- Using a spoon or a piping bag, drop spoonfuls of dough into the hot oil. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry the doughnuts until they puff up and turn golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- While still warm, roll the doughnuts in granulated sugar until evenly coated.
Nutritional Information
Each doughnut (based on 10 servings) contains approximately:
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 19g
- Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 3g
How to Serve Decadent Portuguese Doughnuts (Sonhos) You Can Make at Home
Serve your Decadent Portuguese Doughnuts (Sonhos) warm for the best experience. Pair them with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for a satisfying afternoon snack or breakfast treat. For a festive touch, you can drizzle a little chocolate or caramel sauce over the top, or even sprinkle some cinnamon sugar for an extra flavor kick.
How to Store Decadent Portuguese Doughnuts (Sonhos) You Can Make at Home
If you have any leftovers, store your doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer and then transfer them to a freezer bag, where they’ll last for about 2 months. To enjoy again, simply reheat them in a toaster or oven.
Expert Tips for Perfect Decadent Portuguese Doughnuts (Sonhos) You Can Make at Home
- Ensure that your oil is hot enough before frying; otherwise, the doughnuts might absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying; this helps maintain the oil temperature and allows for even cooking.
- For a lighter texture, you can separate your eggs and whip the whites before folding them into the dough.
- Experiment with flavors! Vanilla extract or a dash of nutmeg can introduce unique profiles to your doughnuts.
Delicious Variations
There are so many ways to enjoy these delightful doughnuts! Try adding a touch of orange zest for a citrus twist or incorporating some chocolate chips into the dough for a richer flavor. You can also fill them with custard or fruit preserves after frying for an extra surprise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of oil for frying?
Yes, while canola oil is preferred for its neutral flavor, you can also use vegetable, sunflower, or peanut oil.What can I use instead of lemon extract?
If you don’t have lemon extract, fresh lemon zest works beautifully. You can also experiment with orange extract for a different flavor.Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Fry them fresh just before serving for the best taste.
Conclusion
Making Decadent Portuguese Doughnuts (Sonhos) at home is a delightful journey into the world of Portuguese desserts. With their airy texture and sweet, subtle lemon flavor, these doughnuts are sure to become a family favorite. We encourage you to try this recipe, enjoy the process, and share your lovely creations with friends and family. Happy baking, and don’t forget to let us know how your adventures turn out!