Bolas de Fraile - Fluffy Mexican Donuts

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 orange Zest of 1 orange
• 2/3 cup (160ml) warm milk 2/3 cup (160ml) warm milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 8g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. 2.
   Add the vanilla extract, orange zest, warm milk, and softened butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. 3.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. 5.
   Punch down the dough and divide it into small portions, shaping each into a ball.
6. 6.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to 180°C (350°F).
7. 7.
   Carefully drop the dough balls into the hot oil, frying them in batches until they turn golden brown on all sides.
8. 8.
   Remove the donuts from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
9. 9.
   Once slightly cooled, generously dust the Bolas de Fraile with powdered sugar.
10. 10.
    Serve warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Orange zest — Make sure to use organic oranges and wash them thoroughly before zesting to avoid any unwanted chemicals or wax.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra touch of sweetness, you can drizzle the Bolas de Fraile with honey or maple syrup.
• If you prefer a more pronounced citrus flavor, you can add a few drops of orange extract to the dough.
• To ensure even frying, avoid overcrowding the pot or fryer with too many donuts at once.
• If you don't have a deep pot or fryer, you can use a deep skillet for frying the donuts.
• These donuts are best enjoyed fresh and warm, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Bolas de Fraile as a delightful dessert or enjoy them as a sweet breakfast treat. They pair perfectly with a cup of hot chocolate or coffee.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Bolas de Fraile on a serving platter and generously dust them with powdered sugar. You can also sprinkle some extra orange zest on top for a vibrant and appealing presentation.