Maple-syrup drenched doughnuts

Method

• 1
  To make the maple and orange syrup, combine the butter, syrup, sugar, orange juice, water and cinnamon in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 2 minutes or until sugar dissolves. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to the boil. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes or until syrup thickens slightly. Remove from heat.
• 2
  Combine the flour, sugar, cinnamon, orange rind, bicarbonate of soda and a pinch of salt in a large bowl. Whisk the buttermilk, egg and butter together in a jug. Pour the buttermilk mixture into the flour mixture and stir to combine.
• 3
  Heat enough oil in a large saucepan to reach a depth of 6cm, over medium heat, until 170°C (to test when oil is ready, a cube of bread turns golden brown in 20 seconds.)
• 4
  Carefully drop 4 large teaspoonfuls of mixture into the hot oil and cook, turning occasionally with a slotted spoon, for 2-3 minutes or until golden and just cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to a plate lined with paper towel. Transfer to the maple syrup mixture to soak. Repeat in 3 more batches with remaining dough, reheating oil between batches.
• 5
  Use a slotted spoon to transfer doughnuts to serving bowls. Drizzle with any leftover syrup. Serve warm or at room temperature, with a dollop of yoghurt, sprinkled with pecans and orange zest.