Imagine biting into a cloud-like doughnut that's crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, bursting with sweet apple chunks, and drizzled with golden honey – that's the mouthwatering world of Greek Loukoumades! These traditional Greek apple doughnuts are not just a dessert; they're a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-drenched streets of Greece. Whether you're a dessert enthusiast or a curious home cook looking to impress, this recipe promises to turn your kitchen into a Mediterranean flavor paradise.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 apples, peeled and diced
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Honey for drizzling
- Chopped walnuts for garnish
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and activated.
- Sift together the flour, salt, and cinnamon in a separate bowl. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients.
- Pour the activated yeast mixture into the flour well and mix thoroughly until a smooth, slightly sticky batter forms. The consistency should be similar to thick pancake batter.
- Gently fold the diced apples into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the batter rest in a warm place for 30 minutes to allow the yeast to develop and the batter to rise.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed pan or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Use a candy thermometer to ensure accurate temperature.
- Using two small spoons or a small ice cream scoop, drop small balls of batter carefully into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry the loukoumades for 2-3 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they become golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Remove the fried doughnuts using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Transfer the warm loukoumades to a serving plate and generously drizzle with honey.
- Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the top for added texture and flavor.
- Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the traditional Greek apple doughnuts.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Use a candy thermometer to maintain the oil at exactly 350°F for perfectly golden, crispy doughnuts.
- Yeast Activation: Ensure your yeast mixture is frothy before mixing – this guarantees a light, airy texture.
- Batter Consistency: The batter should resemble thick pancake mix – not too runny, not too dense.
- Frying Technique: Use two spoons to create uniform, small dough balls for even cooking.
- Don't Overcrowd: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and prevent soggy doughnuts.
- Serve Immediately: Loukoumades are best enjoyed warm, right after drizzling with honey.
- Experiment with Toppings: Try different nuts, cinnamon, or even chocolate drizzle for variety.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
