CHUROS (CHOUX DONUTS)

Ingredients

Choux Donuts

125 grams (4.40 ounces) water
125 grams (4.40 ounces) milk
120 grams (4.25 ounces) butter
0.33 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon (0.50 ounce) sugar
1.5 teaspoons (0.25 ounce) lemon zest
160 grams (5.65 ounces) flour
4 eggs

Glaze

150 grams (5.30 ounces) powdered sugar
3 tablespoons (1.5 ounces) orange juice

Equipment

Mixing Bowl
A sturdy bowl will make mixing the dough easier. Glass or stainless steel are great choices.
Wooden Spatula
Ideal for stirring the dough; wooden spatulas handle heat well and are robust for mixing.
Deep Fryer or Heavy Pan
A deep fryer or a heavy pan for frying ensures even cooking. Make sure to use a thermometer to maintain the right temperature.
Whisk
Perfect for combining the glaze ingredients. A sturdy whisk gets the job done swiftly!
Wire Rack
Where the donuts cool and the glaze sets. This keeps them from getting soggy!

Instructions

Step 1

Step 1: Mix the water, milk, sugar, salt, and butter in a saucepan. Bring to a boil until the butter is melted. Ensure the mixture is well-combined before moving to the next step.

Step 2

Step 2: Remove from heat and add flour all at once. Quickly mix with a wooden spatula to form a dough. Put the saucepan back on low heat and cook for another minute. Stir continuously to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth dough.

Step 3

Step 3: Transfer the dough to a bowl and let it cool slightly.

Step 4

Step 4: Beat the eggs in a separate bowl. Gradually add the eggs to the dough, mixing well after each addition until the dough is smooth. Using a mixer can make this step easier and ensure a smoother consistency.

Step 5

Step 5: Place small portions of dough on pieces of parchment paper. Heat oil in a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the donuts with the parchment attached; remove parchment once the donuts keep their shape. Fry each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove donuts and drain excess oil.

Step 6

Step 6: Place fried donuts on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Step 7

Step 7: For the glaze, mix the powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth.

Step 8

Step 8: Dip the donuts into the glaze and place them on a wire rack to allow the glaze to set. Decorate with sprinkles if desired. Let the glaze dry completely before serving to avoid stickiness.

Step 9

Step 9: Bon Appetit!

Servings

If you're planning a brunch or a cozy gathering, these choux donuts are your new best friend! 🍩 For a *classic* touch, serve **the warm donuts** with a dusting of powdered sugar. Add a side of fresh berries and mint leaves to create a **visually stunning platter**. 🍓🍃 **Feeling adventurous?** Try pairing them with a dip of melted chocolate or your favorite fruit compote for that extra zing. 🎉😍 Hosting a tea party? These donuts **pair beautifully with herbal teas** or creamy hot cocoa. Arrange them on a three-tiered stand for that oh-so-fancy look! 🍵🫖 You could even transform these little delights into a festive treat by decorating with colorful sprinkles, crushed nuts, or edible flowers. How dazzling! ✨🌸

Variations

🍩 **Gluten-Free Variation:** Make sure to use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for regular flour. You may need to experiment with the amounts to achieve the perfect dough consistency. 💪 🌱 **Vegan Variation:** Replace the butter with a plant-based margarine, and use a mixture of flaxseed eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) in place of the regular eggs. Opt for a vegan milk alternative like almond or oat milk. 🌿 For the glaze, you can simply use a vegan powdered sugar and mix it with freshly squeezed orange juice. Delicious and inclusive! 🥰✨

Faq

Why did my choux dough collapse?
Usually, this happens if the dough was not cooked long enough before adding the eggs. Make sure to follow the cooking steps closely to achieve the correct consistency.
Can I make these donuts ahead of time?
While they're best eaten fresh, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day. Reheat in a warm oven to get back some crispiness.
How do I know when the donuts are fully cooked?
When the donuts turn an even golden brown and sound hollow when tapped, they are ready. You can also test one by cutting it open to check that the inside is cooked through.
Why is my glaze too runny?
If your glaze is too runny, gradually add more powdered sugar until you reach the desired consistency. It should be thick yet spreadable.
Can I freeze the dough for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the choux dough. Shape the dough into donuts and place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag, and they can be fried directly from the freezer.
Is it possible to bake these instead of frying?
Absolutely, you can bake the shaped dough at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until puffed and golden. They might not be as crispy but will still be delicious!