Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the dough
In a small bowl, combine the yeast with a teaspoon of sugar and warm water. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes or until it becomes frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the frothy yeast mixture, milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until you have a sticky dough.
Step 2: Knead the dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.
Step 3: Let the dough rise
Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the graffe
Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/2 inch thickness. Using a round cookie cutter or a glass, cut out circles of dough. Then, use a smaller round cutter to make a hole in the center of each circle, creating the classic donut shape.
Step 5: Fry the graffe
In a deep pan or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place a few graffe at a time into the hot oil and fry them for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn golden brown. Make sure to flip them over halfway through to ensure even cooking. Once cooked, transfer the graffe to a paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess oil.
Step 6: Dust with powdered sugar
While the graffe are still warm, generously dust them with powdered sugar. This will add a touch of sweetness and give them their classic Italian donut look.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Your homemade graffe are now ready to be enjoyed. They are best eaten fresh, so don’t hesitate to indulge right away. Serve them with your favorite hot beverage or enjoy them as a delightful treat on their own.
Graffe are a fantastic Italian dessert that can be easily made at home. With this guide, you now have the knowledge and recipe to create these delicious donuts from scratch. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply craving something sweet, graffe will surely impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Give them a try, and enjoy the delightful flavors of traditional Italian cuisine!