Malassadas (Azorean Doughnuts)

(Makes 24)

Ingredients:

7 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon butter, unsalted, melted
2 tablespoons sugar
1/4 cup brandy
5 eggs
1 tablespoon yeast
1/4 cup warm milk (110-115 degrees)
Vegetable oil, for frying
1/2 cup sugar
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

Method of Preparation:

1. Place the flour in a large bowl.  Add the melted butter, sugar, and brandy; mix well.  Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
2. Combine the yeast with the warm milk and add to the flour mixture.  If the mixture is too dry add a little more warm milk. 
3. Knead the dough briefly and place in a large bowl.  Let rise in a warm place for 6 hours.
4. In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon; set aside. 
5. Pour 1-2 inches of oil into a pot; heat to 350 degrees.  Lightly grease hands with oil.  Tear off a small piece of dough and stretch it out by hand into the shape of a triangle.  Fry dough in hot oil in small batches. 
6. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar over warm malassadas.  Serve warm or at room temperature.

Cooking with Class airs on NBC 10 and is hosted by Chef Frank Terranova, an associate instructor at Johnson & Wales University College of Culinary Arts. “Portuguese Recipes,“ aired during the week of Dec. 1, 2008.