Sfinge, also known as Italian donuts, are light, airy, and covered in powdered sugar, perfect for any occasion. This Sfinge recipe brings an authentic Italian touch to your kitchen, and these donuts will quickly become a family favorite. Follow along to make these delightful treats in just a few simple steps.
Ingredients
- Water – ½ cup
- Whole Milk – ½ cup
- Unsalted Butter – 8 tablespoons
- Sugar – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – ¼ teaspoon
- All-Purpose Flour – 1 cup
- Eggs – 4 large, room temperature
- Oil for Frying – enough to reach 375°F
Step-by-Step Sfinge Recipe
- Prepare the Dough Base
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine ½ cup of water, ½ cup of whole milk, and 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Let the butter melt completely before adding 1 teaspoon of sugar and ¼ teaspoon of salt.
- Incorporate the Flour
Once the butter is melted and the mixture is bubbling, remove it from heat. Add 1 cup of all-purpose flour all at once, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon until the flour is fully incorporated. Return the pan to medium heat and continue to stir for about 2 minutes. This helps cook the flour slightly, and you’ll notice a thin film forming on the bottom of the pan, indicating it’s ready.
- Cool and Add Eggs
Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl to cool for a minute. Using an electric hand mixer, beat the dough to release some heat. Then add the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully mixed in before adding the next. When done, the dough will be smooth and thick.
- Prepare for Frying
Spoon the dough into a piping bag with a ½-inch opening or use a large Ziploc bag with a cut corner. Preheat oil to 375°F in a deep fryer or a large pot with a thermometer. Frying at the right temperature is crucial to achieving perfect sfinge without too much oil absorption.
- Fry the Sfinge
Pipe small pieces of dough into the hot oil, cutting with kitchen scissors if needed. Fry each batch for about 4-5 minutes, allowing the sfinge to puff up and turn golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature consistent. - Drain and Dust with Sugar
Once golden, remove the sfinge and place them on a paper towel-lined tray to absorb excess oil. Generously dust with powdered sugar while they’re still warm for a delicious, sweet finish.
Read more:
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Serving Suggestions
Sfinge are best enjoyed fresh and can be served in various fun ways:
- Classic Style: Serve on a platter, generously dusting with powdered sugar between layers.
- Cone Style: Create a parchment cone, fill it with sfinge, and sprinkle powdered sugar for a café-inspired presentation.
- Carnival Style: For a traditional touch, fill a paper lunch bag with sfinge, add powdered sugar, and shake for an even coating.
Tips for Perfect Sfinge
- Use a Thermometer: Maintaining an oil temperature of 375°F ensures sfinge are cooked to perfection.
- Adjust Sweetness: Since there’s only a small amount of sugar in the dough, powdered sugar adds just the right sweetness.
- Repurpose the Dough: This dough recipe is versatile and can also be used for treats like churros, cream puffs, and eclairs!
Why This Sfinge Recipe Is a Must-Try
This Sfinge recipe brings a taste of Italy into your home, and the best part? It takes just 30 to 45 minutes from start to finish. These fluffy Italian donuts, with their crisp exterior and soft interior, are bound to become your new favorite homemade treat.
