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1
For the chile sugar: Combine the sugar, chile powder and paprika in a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment.
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2
Mix on low speed until well combined, 1 to 2 minutes.
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3
Store in an airtight container.
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4
For the doughnuts: In a saucepan, heat the milk until about body temperature.
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5
Add the yeast and stir until dissolved.
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6
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, salt and lemon zest.
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7
Add the butter to the flour mixture along with the egg yolks and milk/yeast mixture.
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8
Use the hook attachment to mix the dough together.
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9
Start on low speed for 3 to 4 minutes, then on medium speed for 10 to 15 minutes.
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10
Add up to 2 extra tablespoons milk if the dough does not come together.
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11
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spray the paper lightly with nonstick cooking spray.
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12
Scale the dough into about thirty 1 1/2-ounce pieces.
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13
Roll the dough pieces into small balls and set them on the prepared baking sheet.
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14
Make sure there is enough space between the dough balls, as they will double in size when proofing.
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15
Cover with plastic wrap.
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16
The dough can be proofed and finished at this point, or frozen for later processing.
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17
If proofing right away, let the dough balls sit in a warm area such as on top of the oven or close to it, covered with the plastic wrap so they don't dry out, until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
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18
Heat 3 to 4 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot until a deep-fry thermometer inserted in the oil registers 350 degrees F. Set a wire rack over a baking sheet.
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19
In batches and using a bench scraper or flat spatula, carefully lift the doughnuts off the parchment and drop them into the oil top first.
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20
After about 2 minutes, use a rubber spatula or wooden spoon to flip the doughnuts, then cook for another 2 minutes on the bottom side.
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21
Flip them again and cook until golden brown all over, about 1 more minute.
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22
Use a spider or slotted spoon to pull the doughnuts out of the oil and set onto the prepared wire rack to drain.
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23
Roll in the chile sugar and serve.
