Introduction:

Sweet donuts, with their characteristic ring or sphere shape, are a universal delight that transcends borders and cultures. Their popularity stems from their versatility, as they can be found in an infinite number of flavors, textures, and presentations. From the classic glazed donut to more elaborate creations with extravagant fillings and toppings, sweet donuts offer a range of possibilities to satisfy any craving.

The history of donuts dates back to ancient times, with primitive versions consisting of fried dough sweetened with honey. However, the modern donut, with its characteristic hole in the center, became popular in the United States in the early 20th century, becoming an icon of popular culture.

Key Elements:

  • Variety of Flavors and Textures:
    • Donuts can be fluffy, dense, crispy, or soft, depending on the recipe and preparation technique.
    • Flavors range from classics like sugar glaze, chocolate, or cinnamon to more innovative combinations with fruits, creams, spices, and other ingredients.
  • Toppings and Fillings:
    • Toppings can range from simple icing to elaborate creams, chocolates, nuts, or decorative toppings.
    • Fillings add an extra dimension of flavor and texture, with options such as pastry creams, jams, dulce de leche, or even savory fillings.
  • Presentation:
    • Donuts come in a variety of shapes, from the classic ring to filled spheres, squares, or even themed shapes.
    • Decor plays an important role in presentation, with vibrant colors, eye-catching textures, and creative designs.
  • Cultural Importance:
    • Donuts are a staple of popular culture, appearing in movies, television series, books, and songs.
    • They are a symbol of celebration, indulgence and moments of enjoyment.

Possible Interpretations:

  • Donuts represent an accessible and comforting culinary pleasure.
  • They are a symbol of American culture, but also a globalized product that adapts to local tastes.
  • Donuts are an example of creativity and innovation in pastry making, with endless possibilities for combining flavors and presentations.

In short, sweet donuts are a versatile and delicious product that has conquered the world, adapting to different cultures and tastes.

Ancient Origins:

  • European Precursors:
    • The ancestors of donuts are believed to have originated in medieval Europe.
    • In the Netherlands, fried buns called “olykoeks” (oil cakes) were prepared, which were similar to today’s donuts.
    • These buns came to North America with Dutch settlers in the 17th century.

Evolution in America:

  • Primitive Doughnuts:
    • In the 19th century, doughnuts were known as “dough-nuts,” consisting of balls of fried dough with nuts or fruit in the center.
    • Often the center of these balls was not cooked well, which led to the invention of the characteristic hole.
  • The Donut Hole:
    • The most popular legend attributes the invention of the hole to American sea captain Hanson Gregory, who, in 1847, suggested cutting the center of doughnuts to ensure even baking.
    • Another theory says that the shape of the hole allowed the donuts to cook more quickly and evenly.
  • Popularization in the 20th Century:
    • In the early 20th century, donuts became a popular food in the United States, especially during World War I, when the Salvation Army served them to soldiers.
    • The industrial production of donuts and the creation of donut chains such as Dunkin’ Donuts and Krispy Kreme boosted their popularity.

Varieties and Global Expansion:

  • Diversity of Flavors and Shapes:
    • Over time, a wide variety of donuts have been developed, with different flavors, toppings, and fillings.
    • In addition to the classic donut with a hole, there are filled, square, elongated, and other creative shapes.
  • Global Presence:
    • Donuts have spread throughout the world, adapting to local tastes.
    • In many countries, there are regional variations of donuts, with native ingredients and flavors.

Cultural Importance:

  • American Icon:
    • Donuts have become a symbol of American culture, appearing in movies, television series, and other media.
  • Universal Pleasure:
    • Despite their American origins, donuts are enjoyed by people of all ages and cultures around the world.

In short, donuts have a rich and diverse history, spanning centuries and continents. Their evolution from simple fried buns to the popular sweet treat we know today is a testament to their enduring appeal.

Ingredients:

  • For the dough:
    • 500 g of wheat flour
    • 60 g of sugar
    • 1 teaspoon of dry yeast
    • 1 teaspoon of salt
    • 120 ml of warm water
    • 1 egg
    • 20 ml of milk
    • 40g unsalted butter, melted and cooled
    • Vegetable oil for frying
  • For the glaze (optional):
    • 450 g of icing sugar
    • 60 ml of milk
    • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla essence
    • Food coloring (optional)
    • Decorations (sprinkles, sprinkles, etc.) (optional)

Preparation:

  1. Prepare the dough:
    • In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
    • In another bowl, mix the warm water, egg, milk and melted butter.
    • Pour the liquid mixture into the flour mixture and mix with a spatula until a dough forms.
    • Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
    • Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rest in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
    • OnceOnce the dough has doubled in volume, roll out the dough with a rolling pin until it is 1 cm thick.  
    • Fry the donuts:
      • Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 180°C.
      • Carefully place the donuts in the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
      • Remove the donuts from the oil and place them on absorbent paper to remove excess oil.
    • Glaze (optional):
      • In a bowl, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until you get a smooth glaze.
      • If desired, add food coloring to the frosting.
      • Dip the donuts in the glaze and decorate with sprinkles, sprinkles, or other decorations.
    • Additional tips:
    • For fluffier donuts, make sure the yeast is fresh and active.
    • Don’t overbeat the batter, as this can make the donuts tough.
    • Control the temperature of the oil to prevent the donuts from burning or being raw inside.
    • You can bake the donuts instead of frying them, this will change the final texture of the product.
    • You can use different types of flour to make the dough.
    • Donuts are very versatile, you can use different types of glazes and decorations.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • What is the origin of the hole in donuts?
    • The most popular legend attributes the invention of the hole to American sea captain Hanson Gregory, who, in 1847, suggested cutting out the center of doughnuts to ensure even baking. Another theory says the shape of the hole allowed doughnuts to cook more quickly and evenly.
  • What is the difference between a “donut” and a “doughnut”?
    • “Doughnut” is the original, more formal spelling, while “donut” is a simplification popularized in the United States. Both words refer to the same product.
  • Are there regional variations of donuts?
    • Yes, in many countries there are regional variations of donuts, with native ingredients and flavors. For example, in some Latin American countries, donuts filled with dulce de leche are common, and in some European countries, donuts filled with jam are common.
  • What is “National Donut Day”?
    • In the United States, National Doughnut Day is celebrated on the first Friday in June. This tradition began in 1938 by the Salvation Army to honor the women who served doughnuts to soldiers during World War I.
  • What types of donuts are there?
    • There are countless types of donuts, from classic glazed, chocolate, or cinnamon donuts to donuts filled with custard, jam, dulce de leche, and many other variations.

Texture and Flavor

  • Texture:
    • Crispy or slightly firm exterior , especially if fried.
    • Fluffy, soft and airy interior , with a light and moist crumb.
    • Baked versions are lighter, while fried versions have a more decadent texture.
  • Flavor:
    • Sweet and buttery flavor base , with notes of vanilla or cinnamon depending on the recipe.
    • The icing or coating adds variety: powdered sugar, chocolate, caramel, strawberry, cream, etc.
    • Some are filled with pastry cream, jam, dulce de leche or chocolate .

Consumer Context

  • Popular for breakfast, snacks, celebrations or as a sweet snack .
  • They are found in bakeries, cafes, food trucks, supermarkets and convenience stores .
  • Very common in school meetings, offices or birthdays , and as an accompaniment to coffee or milk .

Visual Aspect

  • Round shape with a hole in the center , although they can also be filled and without a hole.
  • Golden on the outside , decorated with shiny glazes, colored sprinkles, granulated sugar or chocolate coatings .
  • Very colorful and cheerful, ideal for display cases and dessert tables.

Curiosities

  • Doughnuts have European origins (like the Dutch olykoeks ), but their modern fame was born in the USA.
  • Legend has it that the hole in the center was invented so they would cook more evenly.
  • In the US, “National Donut Day” is celebrated (first Friday in June).
  • Some famous chains like Dunkin’ Donuts or Krispy Kreme have popularized thousands of creative flavors around the world.
  • In some Latin American countries they are also known as rosquillas or rosquitas , although they vary in style.

Estimated Nutritional Value (per standard donut of approximately 70–90 g)

(Fried, with simple glaze)

  • Calories: 250 – 400 kcal
  • Fat: 15 – 25 g (depending on the type of frying)
  • Carbohydrates: 30 – 45 g
  • Sugars: 15 – 30 g
  • Protein: 3 – 5 g
  • Sodium: Moderate
  • Fiber: Low, although it can be increased if whole wheat flour is used

Other Interesting Information

  • They can be made healthier by using whole wheat flour, baking them, or reducing the sugar in the dough.
  • There are vegan and gluten-free versions , which are increasingly popular in artisanal coffee shops.
  • They are highly customizable: from fun toppings to gourmet fillings like pistachio cream or matcha.
  • On social media, donuts are one of the most photogenic and viral  desserts .

Other Relevant Information:

  • The influence on popular culture:
    • Doughnuts are an icon of popular culture, featured in movies, television series, and literature. An iconic example is Homer Simpson’s fondness for doughnuts in the series “The Simpsons.”
  • The expansion of donut chains:
    • Chains like Dunkin’ Donuts and Krispy Kreme have played a pivotal role in popularizing donuts worldwide.
  • Donuts and creative pastries:
    • The versatility of donuts has made them a canvas for creative baking, with increasingly innovative flavor combinations and decorations.

Conclusion :

Doughnuts, more than just a sweet treat, represent a rich culinary history and a global cultural phenomenon. Their evolution from Dutch “olykoeks” to today’s elaborate creations is a testament to their adaptability and enduring appeal.

The invention of the hole in the donut, whether due to the need for even baking or pure chance, marked a milestone in its history, turning it into an instantly recognizable icon. The popularization of donuts in the United States during the 20th century, driven by industrial production and the creation of donut chains, cemented its status as a staple food in American culture.

However, donuts transcend borders and cultures. Their versatility allows for countless variations, from classic glazed donuts to those filled with creams and jams, adapting to local tastes around the world. The presence of donuts in popular culture, from films and television series to literature and music, reflects their deep roots in society.

Beyond their sweet taste and fluffy texture, donuts evoke feelings of nostalgia, pleasure, and celebration. They are a symbol of indulgence, a treat enjoyed on special occasions or as a simple everyday pleasure. The celebration of “National Donut Day” in the United States is a testament to their cultural significance.

In short, donuts are a versatile and delicious culinary product that has conquered the world. Their rich and diverse history, their presence in popular culture, and their ability to adapt to local tastes make them a timeless treat that will continue to delight palates for generations.