| Prep: 30-35 mins | Cook: 15-20 mins | Difficulty: Intermediate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 745 | 35g | 15g | 98g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 70g | 3g | 10g | 1g |
I have a particularly soft spot for our recipe of the day, the Mahleb Syrup Glazed Doughnuts. This incredible dessert recipe combines the sweetness of fruit with the comfort of a classic American treat – a truly delightful fusion. While my cooking is predominantly centered around Midwestern fare, this Eastern mediterranean twist brings an exotic flair to the otherwise familiar texture of doughnuts. And the best part? This dessert recipe maintains the farm-to-table freshness I believe is key to create culinary masterpieces.
An Adventure for the Taste Buds
One of the reasons that I love these Mahleb Syrup Glazed Doughnuts is their distinctive flavor. Mahleb is a spice made from the seeds of a species of cherry. It offers a unique combination of sweet and sour flavor that’s reminiscent of cherries and almonds with a faint hint of anise. It pairs perfectly with the fresh mixed berries used in making the syrup for glazing these doughnuts. The end result is a truly delightful treat that is as satisfying as a good old Nebraska corn casserole, but with a refreshing fruity finish.
Health Benefits
Of course, this recipe isn’t just about flavorful indulgence. Berries are well known for their high nutrient content. In fact, they’re some of the healthiest foods on the planet. Mixed berries are packed with fiber, and rich in antioxidants like anthocyanins, which may provide heart health benefits and contribute to a healthy immune system. Berries are also surprisingly low in calories, and their sweet taste might satisfy your sweet craving without ruining your diet! Even the mahleb offers benefits – it’s often used in traditional medicine for its potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Nevertheless, moderation is key, as these recipes still have sugar, so enjoy these delectable doughnuts as a treat rather than a daily indulgence.
These doughnuts work beautifully as a standalone dessert, but you can certainly pair them with other dishes if you prefer. Considering their sweet and fruity nature, they could make a delightful companion to a cup of strong black coffee or a glass of late harvest wine. If you are planning a brunch, these doughnuts would be the perfect complement to savory recipes like quiches or a hearty waffles.
So venture out of the ordinary and give this delicious and unique recipe a shot. When you bite into these exquisite doughnuts, I guarantee you’ll be transported straight to a bustling Middle Eastern souk, all while savoring the timeless comfort of a classic American pastry.
What You’ll Need
- 1 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon of mahleb, finely ground
- 1/4 cup of warm water
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) of active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups of vegetable oil, for frying
- 1 cup of granulated sugar, for coating
- 1 cup of water
- 2 cups of caster sugar
- 1 cup of fresh mixed berries
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
Method
Step One
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and finely ground mahleb. Mix well to evenly distribute the mahleb throughout the flour.
Step Two
In a separate bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast. Let it rest for about 5 minutes, or until the yeast has dissolved and started to foam.
Step Three
Add the granulated sugar, salt, melted unsalted butter, and eggs to the yeast mixture. Stir well to combine.
Step Four
Gradually add the flour and mahleb mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Continue to mix until a sticky dough forms.
Step Five
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Set it aside in a warm place and let it rise for 1-2 hours or until the dough has doubled in size.
Step Six
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about a 1/2-inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out doughnut shapes. Allow the cut-out dough to rest for another 30 minutes.
Step Seven
While the doughnuts are resting, heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot. Fry the doughnuts until golden brown on each side, then transfer to a paper towel to drain.
Step Eight
In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 2 cups of caster sugar. Bring to a boil and let it simmer until the sugar is completely dissolved. Add the mixed berries and lemon juice, and continue to simmer for another 5-10 minutes. Strain the syrup and let it cool.
Step Nine
Once the doughnuts have cooled slightly, roll them in the remaining granulated sugar, then drizzle with the mixed berry syrup. Your Mahleb Syrup Glazed Doughnuts are ready to enjoy!
