Portuguese Bolo Levedo: Soft Lemon-Scented Fried Muffins

by

These Portuguese-inspired muffins are made from a lightly sweetened yeast dough enriched with milk, butter, and eggs. A touch of vanilla and fresh lemon zest adds a delicate flavor, while frying gives the muffins a golden exterior. Finished with powdered sugar, they make a delightful homemade sweet treat.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

  1. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the flour, sugar, active dry yeast, and salt until evenly distributed.
  2. Warm the Milk: Heat the milk gently until it is lukewarm. Add the softened butter and stir until the butter has melted completely into the warm milk.
  3. Add the Eggs and Flavorings: Beat the eggs separately, then add them to the milk and butter mixture. Stir in the vanilla extract and fresh lemon zest, mixing until everything is well combined.
  4. Make the Dough: Gradually pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients, stirring as you go. Continue mixing until you have a smooth, sticky dough.
  5. Let the Dough Rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and leave it in a warm place for about 2 hours, or until the dough has approximately doubled in volume.
  6. Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep frying pan and heat it to 350°F (175°C).
  7. Fry the Muffins: Drop spoonfuls of the risen dough into the hot oil. Fry the pieces for approximately 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning them as needed, until both sides are golden brown.
  8. Drain: Remove the cooked muffins from the oil and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
  9. Finish with Sugar: While the muffins are still warm, dust them generously with powdered sugar.
  10. Serve: Serve the Portuguese muffins warm and enjoy them as a sweet homemade treat.

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Rising Time: 2 hours
  • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
  • Servings: 12 muffins
  • Calories: Approximately 180 kcal per muffin

Leave a Comment