Dark Chocolate Doughnuts

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

   Tip: Make sure to grease the doughnuts well before frying.

2. 2

   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and yeast.

   Tip: Use a whisk or a stand mixer with a whisk attachment for this step.

3. 3

   In a separate bowl, whisk together warm milk, eggs, and melted butter.

   Tip: Make sure the milk is not too hot, as this can kill the yeast.

4. 4

   Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a smooth batter forms.

   Tip: Don't overmix the batter, as this can lead to dense doughnuts.

5. 5

   Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the mixture rest for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

   Tip: This is the proofing stage, where the yeast does its magic.

6. 6

   Punch down the dough and use a doughnut cutter or a round cookie cutter to cut out the doughnuts.

   Tip: Don't worry if the doughnuts are not perfectly round – they will still taste delicious.

7. 7

   Fry the doughnuts in hot oil until they are golden brown, then drain on paper towels.

   Tip: If you don't have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough into it – if it sizzles, it's ready.

8. 8

   Dip the cooled doughnuts in melted dark chocolate and roll in confectioners' sugar.

   Tip: Make sure the chocolate is still warm, as this will help it set properly.

9. 9

   Sprinkle with sea salt and serve.

   Tip: You can also glaze the doughnuts with a little bit of milk or water if you prefer a lighter coating.