- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup for the dough, 1/4 cup for glazing)
- Baking powder (1 tsp)
- Salt (1/2 tsp)
- Warm milk (3/4 cup)
- Unsalted butter (6 tbsp, melted)
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
- Egg (1 large, beaten)
- Espresso powder (1 tsp) - For that authentic coffee flavor
- Vegetable oil (For frying the doughnuts)
- Powdered sugar (For glazing the zeppole, 4 cups total with additional for dusting)
- Coffee glaze ingredients:
- Granulated sugar (3/4 cup)
- Unsweetened chocolate (6 oz, chopped)
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup)
- Instant coffee granules (1 tbsp) - To enhance the coffee flavor
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
Steps
### How to Make Coffee Glazed Italian Doughnut Zeppole: A Step-by-Step Guide
#### Ingredients:
- **1 cup (30g) active dry yeast**
- **2 cups (450g) all-purpose flour**
- **1 teaspoon salt**
- **1/4 cup (60ml) milk**
- **1/2 cup (120ml) warm water** (about 110°F or 43°C)
- **3 tablespoons granulated sugar**
- **3 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing the pan**
- **Coffee glaze:**
- **1/2 cup (125g) powdered sugar**
- **2 teaspoons instant espresso powder**
- **1 tablespoon brewed coffee**
- **1 to 2 tablespoons milk**
#### Equipment:
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Heavy-bottomed saucepan
- Cooking thermometer (optional, but recommended for precise temperature control)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Yeast:**
- In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of sugar and warm water. Sprinkle yeast over the mixture and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients:**
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, milk, remaining sugar, and melted butter. Stir to combine.
3. **Knead the Dough:**
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes.
- Place the dough back into the bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
4. **Prepare Zeppole Shaping:**
- Preheat your cooking surface to medium-high heat (about 350°F/175°C). Grease a large pan with butter.
- Divide the dough into small balls, about 2 tablespoons each. Roll out each ball into thin circles using a rolling pin or by hand.
5. **Cooking Zeppole:**
- Carefully place the rolled-out zeppoles onto the greased pan and cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack.
6. **Make Coffee Glaze:**
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine powdered sugar, instant espresso powder, and brewed coffee. Add milk gradually while stirring until the glaze reaches your desired consistency.
7. **Glazing Zeppole:**
- Dip each zeppole into the glaze, making sure to coat evenly. Place them on a wire rack lined with parchment paper to dry completely.
8. **Serve:**
- Serve the coffee-glazed zeppole immediately while they are still warm and covered in a shiny, rich glaze. Enjoy your homemade Italian doughnuts!
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By following these detailed steps, you can create delicious, rich, and inviting coffee-glazed Italian doughnut zeppole that are perfect for any festive occasion or just a casual treat!