Orange Ricotta Donut Holes with Thyme and Honey

Donuts are a treat loved by many, but innovative flavors are taking this classic to exciting new levels. Enter Orange Ricotta Donuts with Thyme and Honey. This unique combination blends the vibrant taste of orange with the creamy richness of ricotta and is further complemented by fragrant thyme, all elegantly drizzled with sweet honey.

The delightful combination of Orange Ricotta Donuts with Thyme and Honey offers more than just a dessert; it provides a flavorful adventure. Each component—from creamy ricotta and zesty orange to earthy thyme and sweet honey—joins together in a delicious harmony.

These donuts are a refreshing take on a classic favorite, making them perfect for brunch gatherings or a midday treat. So why not try making these unique donuts at home and enjoy the symphony of flavors that await you?

Orange Ricotta Donut Holes with Thyme & Honey

Ingredients:

Donut Batter:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1 pinch salt

• Zest of 2 oranges

• 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar ground with

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (use a mortar/pestle or spice grinder)

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 2 large eggs

For Frying:

• 4 cups olive oil or grapeseed oil (for deep frying)

Optional for Serving:

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

• Extra honey or thyme sprigs for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil: In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat oil to 355°F (180°C). Line a plate or tray with paper towels for draining.

2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, ricotta, honey, orange zest, and orange juice until smooth.

3. Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, pinch of salt, and the ground thyme-sugar blend.

4. Form the batter: Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until you get a smooth, sticky dough. Do not overmix.

5. Fry the donuts: Using a tablespoon or small scoop, gently drop heaping spoonfuls of dough into the hot oil (3–4 at a time to avoid overcrowding).Fry for about 5 minutes, turning as needed, until deep golden brown and cooked through.

6. Drain & cool: Transfer to the paper towel-lined plate and let cool slightly.

7. Finish & serve: Dust with powdered sugar before serving. For extra flair, drizzle with warm honey and garnish with a small sprig of thyme or extra orange zest.

Tips & Variations:

• For a crispier crust, you can roll them in cinnamon-sugar instead of powdered sugar.

• Substitute lemon zest for orange for a more herbal-lemon profile.

• Want a glaze? Mix 1/2 cup powdered sugar with 1–2 tablespoons orange juice and a few thyme leaves.