portuguese donuts recipe.

 

🍩 Portuguese Donuts Recipe (Filhós / Malasadas)

Enjoy the fluffy and golden Portuguese Donuts, known as Filhós or Malasadas, deep-fried to perfection and coated with cinnamon sugar — a beloved treat during holidays and festivals in Portugal!

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🕒 Prep Time: 20 minutes

⏲️ Resting Time: 1 hour

🔥 Cook Time: 15 minutes

🍴 Servings: 10–12 donuts

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🧂 Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast
• ½ cup warm milk
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Cinnamon sugar for coating

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👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Activate Yeast:
   In a small bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. Make the Dough:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, lemon zest, and melted butter. Add eggs and the yeast mixture.
   Mix until a sticky dough forms.

3. Knead and Rise:
   Knead on a floured surface for 5–6 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

4. Shape Donuts:
   Punch down the dough, roll it out to about ½ inch thick, and cut into circles (use a donut cutter or a cup).

5. Fry:
   Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry 2–3 donuts at a time for 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown.

6. Coat:
   Remove and drain on paper towels. Roll immediately in cinnamon sugar for that classic Portuguese flavor.

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🍋 Serving Suggestions:

• Serve warm with coffee or espresso for a classic Portuguese breakfast.
• For a festive twist, drizzle with honey or Portuguese caramel sauce.
• Pair with Pastel de Nata for a full Portuguese dessert spread.

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❄️ Storage Tips:

• Store leftover donuts in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
• Avoid refrigerating — it can make the donuts dense.

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❓ FAQs

Q1: What is the difference between Filhós and Malasadas?
A: Filhós are typically made during Christmas in Portugal, while Malasadas are popular in Madeira and the Azores — both are Portuguese-style donuts, but malasadas are slightly denser and rounder.

Q2: Can I bake instead of fry?
A: Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, though the texture will be less crispy.

Q3: Can I fill these donuts?
A: Absolutely! Fill with custard, jam, or chocolate cream using a piping bag.

Q4: Are Portuguese donuts similar to American donuts?
A: They’re similar but lighter, less sweet, and often flavored with lemon zest or orange for a Mediterranean touch.

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🍰 Similar Recipes You’ll Love:

1. Portuguese Custard Tarts (Pastel de Nata)
2. Portuguese Almond Cake (Bolo de Amêndoa)
3. Portuguese Sweet Bread (Pão Doce)
4. Portuguese Rice Pudding (Arroz Doce)
5. Portuguese Honey Cookies (Broas de Mel)