Get ready to transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of New Orleans with these irresistible Mardi Gras doughnuts that are about to become the star of your next celebration! Imagine biting into a cloud-like, golden-brown delicacy dusted with powdered sugar that tells a story of tradition, flavor, and pure culinary joy. Aunt Rose's secret recipe is more than just a dessert – it's a carnival of taste that will have your friends and family begging for more!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 12 doughnuts
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground nutmeg to ensure even distribution of dry ingredients and remove any lumps.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten. Add the milk and melted butter, whisking to combine thoroughly until the wet ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour the wet ingredient mixture into it. Gently fold and mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes to allow the flour to hydrate and the gluten to relax.
- Prepare a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer by filling it with 2-3 inches of vegetable oil. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C), using a deep-fry thermometer to ensure accurate temperature.
- Lightly dust a clean work surface with flour. Roll out the dough to approximately 1/2 inch thickness using a rolling pin. Use a doughnut cutter or two different-sized round cutters to cut out doughnut shapes.
- Carefully slide the doughnuts into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown, turning once using a slotted spoon or spider strainer.
- Remove the doughnuts from the oil and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil and cool slightly.
- While still warm, generously dust the doughnuts with powdered sugar using a fine-mesh sieve, ensuring an even and beautiful coating.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. These doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh and warm, perfect for a festive Mardi Gras celebration.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Use a deep-fry thermometer to maintain exactly 350°F. Too cool, and your doughnuts will be greasy; too hot, and they'll burn on the outside while remaining raw inside.
- Dough Resting Magic: Don't skip the 15-minute resting period. This allows the flour to fully absorb the liquid and helps create a more tender, light texture.
- Batch Frying Wisdom: Fry in small batches to prevent the oil temperature from dropping and ensure even cooking. Overcrowding is the enemy of crispy doughnuts!
- Oil Selection Matters: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable or canola oil for the best frying results.
- Powdered Sugar Pro Tip: For an even, beautiful coating, use a fine-mesh sieve and dust the doughnuts while they're still slightly warm – the sugar will stick perfectly!
- Serving Suggestion: These doughnuts are best enjoyed immediately. If you must store them, keep at room temperature for no more than 1-2 days, and reheat briefly in the oven to restore their crispy exterior.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 65mg