1. Prepare the dough
In a bowl, mix the lukewarm milk with the yeast and a teaspoon of sugar. Let stand for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy. Then add the egg, the remaining sugar, the vanilla sugar, and the melted butter. Gradually add the flour with a pinch of salt, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Knead for about 5 to 10 minutes until the dough is soft and slightly sticky.
2. Let the dough rise
Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
3. Shape the doughnuts
Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough to about 1.5 cm thick. Cut the doughnuts using a cookie cutter or a glass. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover lightly, and let them rest for 15 to 20 minutes.
4. Pan-frying (without frying)
Heat a non-stick frying pan lightly greased with a little vegetable oil. Over low to medium heat, place the doughnuts in the pan, leaving space between them. Cover with a lid and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
See also: Fried Mozzarella Rolls with Marinara Sauce
Repeat with the remaining doughnuts.
5. Gourmet Finish
Let the doughnuts cool on paper towels. Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a sweet and delicate touch. You can also fill them with jam, spread, or simply enjoy them plain.
Tips and advice for successful pan-frying doughnuts without frying
Optimal rising: Place your dough near a radiator or in a turned-off oven with the light on to promote rising.
Soft texture: Don’t roll out the batter too thin; the doughnuts need to retain some thickness to be perfectly soft.
Controlled cooking: Cook over low heat to avoid burning the outside before the inside is cooked.
Vegan version: Replace the milk with a plant-based milk and the butter with plant-based margarine.
Storage: These doughnuts are best eaten the same day, but you can store them in an airtight container and heat them for a few seconds in the microwave.
This healthier version of classic doughnuts is ideal for those who want to limit their oil consumption while still enjoying themselves. Thanks to gentle pan-frying, you get a golden, soft texture without the drawbacks of deep-frying: no unpleasant odors, no oil bath, and, above all, less fat.
It’s an excellent alternative for children, those on a lighter diet, or simply for a delicious and quick snack.
Conclusion
No-Fry Pan-Fried Donuts are proof that you can indulge in homemade treats while still being healthy. Easy to make, economical, and requiring no frying oil, they’ll quickly become a staple of your snacks or breakfasts. Try this recipe and let yourself be seduced by their softness and comforting flavor… without any guilt!
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