Orange Drop Doughnuts

Directions

1. 1
   You will need 3 oranges for the juice and zest required in this recipe.
2. 2
   Make the orange sugar.
3. 3
   Pulse sugar and finely grated (microplane works wonders) orange zest in food processor until blended.
4. 4
   Transfer to medium bowl.
5. 5
   To make the doughnuts.
6. 6
   Heat 3 inches of vegetable oil in 4-quart saucepan until temperature reaches 350F (180C).
7. 7
   Whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together in medium bowl.
8. 8
   Whisk eggs, sugar, and orange zest in another larger bowl.
9. 9
   Whisk in orange juice, then butter, until well combined.
10. 10
    Stir in flour mixture until evenly moistened.
11. 11
    Using two rounded teaspoons (dinnerware not measuring spoons), carefully drop heaping spoonfuls of batter into hot oil.
12. 12
    Cook at most, 6 at a time, do not overcrowd!
13. 13
    Fry, maintaining temperature between 325 and 350 degrees, until doughnuts are crisp and deeply browned on all sides, 3 to 6 minutes.
14. 14
    Using slotted spoon, transfer doughnuts to plate lined with paper towels.
15. 15
    Drain for 5 minutes.
16. 16
    Add doughnuts to bowl with orange sugar and toss until well coated.
17. 17
    Arrange on a serving plate and repeat with remaining batter, adjusting heat to maintain the as necessary.
18. 18
    These doughnuts are best served warm.