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–+ servings
Portuguese Doughnuts

Light and Airy Portuguese Doughnuts for Sweet Moments

These Portuguese Doughnuts, or Sonhos, are a delightful treat that brings a taste of family gatherings into your home.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 doughnuts
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: Portuguese
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 1 cup water Use any clean drinking water.
  • 2 tablespoons butter Can substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 tablespoon granulated white sugar Sweetens the batter; can use coconut sugar as a great alternative.
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour Try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free doughnuts.
  • 4 large eggs Can use flax eggs as a vegan alternative.
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract Feel free to substitute with vanilla extract if desired.
  • 1 pinch salt Use sea salt or kosher salt for the best flavor.
For Frying
  • canola oil Used to fry the doughnuts; vegetable or peanut oil can be alternatives.
For Rolling
  • granulated white sugar Coats warm doughnuts once fried; optionally use powdered sugar.

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • electric mixer
  • Deep Pot
  • Slotted spoon
  • Thermometer

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Portuguese Doughnuts
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water, 2 tablespoons of butter, and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and add 1 cup of all-purpose flour, stirring vigorously until a dough ball forms.
  2. Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and cool for 5 minutes. Beat in 4 large eggs one at a time, then blend in 1/2 teaspoon of lemon extract and a pinch of salt until smooth.
  3. In a deep pot, heat canola oil to 375°F, checking with a wooden spoon for bubbles forming.
  4. Drop small dollops of dough into the hot oil, frying about 5 to 6 doughnuts for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown.
  5. Remove the doughnuts with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels. Roll in granulated sugar while still warm.
  6. Serve the doughnuts warm and enjoy their light and airy texture.

Nutrition

Serving: 1doughnutCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 70mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 5IUCalcium: 2mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Keep the oil at the correct temperature for best results. Customize flavors with different extracts.

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