Saffron Sufganiyot
Celebrate Hanukkah this year with a delightful twist on the traditional treat – Saffron Sufganiyot filled with zesty lemon curd. These golden-fried doughnuts, infused with the warm and luxe essence of saffron, offer a fragrant and flavorful experience that perfectly complements the joyous spirit of the holiday season. As you take a bite into the pillowy softness of these indulgent treats, the burst of tangy lemon curd adds a citrusy brightness, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will surely illuminate your Hanukkah festivities.
Ingredients:
4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
A pinch of saffron threads
1 cup warm milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs, beaten
For Filling: Lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
For Frying: Vegetable oil
For Dusting: Powdered sugar
Make the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1 packet of active dry yeast.Warm 1 cup of milk (about 110°F/43°C) and melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. Grind a pinch of saffron with mortar & pestle, stir into warm milk and let sit for 5 minutes.Add the warm milk and melted butter to the dry ingredients.
Beat 2 large eggs and add them to the mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Assembly and Frying:
Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface. Cut rounds using a cookie cutter or a glass.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large, deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
Fry the dough rounds for about 1-2 minutes per side or until they turn golden brown. Make sure they cook evenly.
Remove the sufganiyot and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Filling:
Fill a piping bag with lemon curd.
Once the sufganiyot are cool enough to handle, insert the piping tip into the side of each donut and fill it with the lemon curd.
Dusting:
Sprinkle the filled sufganiyot with powdered sugar and serve immediately! These aren't as difficult as they seem and your friends and family will be very impressed!
