BRIOCHE DOUGH

1. In a small bowl, combine the yeast, milk and 1 Tbsp of the sugar. Mix well, and leave to sit for 10-15 minutes, or until foamy.
2. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine the flour, salt, remaining 1 Tbsp sugar, lemon zest, and pepper. Mix briefly to combine. Add the eggs and foamy yeast mixture to the bowl. Mix on low for 2-3 minutes, until the dough is starting to come together. It may look slightly dry but do not worry - it will mix together nicely in the next steps. If it is not coming together, add extra milk a teaspoon at a time. Increase the mixer speed to medium, and mix for another 10 minutes, until the dough is soft and smooth. 
3. Reduce the mixer speed to low, and add the butter a little at a time, waiting until it is fully incorporated into the dough before adding the next piece. This process should take 3-4 minutes. Once the butter is fully incorporated, increase the mixer speed to medium, and mix for a further 5 minutes, until the dough is very soft and smooth. 
4. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, and cover with plastic wrap. Leave in a warm place until doubled in size, 1 to 1 ½ hours

FILLING AND ASSEMBLY

1. Place all of the filling ingredients in a small bowl, and mix well to combine.
2. Turn out the dough onto a very lightly floured surface. Weigh, and divide into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, and place under plastic wrap. 
3. Fill a dutch oven or heavy bottomed saucepan half way with neutral oil, and heat to 350˚f / 180˚c. 
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 
5. Working with one piece of dough at a time, flatten it out using your hands until it is about 4 inches (10cm) diameter. Place a tablespoon of filling in the middle, then pinch closed with your fingers, then roll it on the work surface into a ball, taking care not to puncture it so that the filling does not escape. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Working in batches and frying 2 or 3 doughnuts at a time, fry the doughnuts in the oil, flipping frequently to ensure even browning. Fry for 5-6 minutes per doughnut, until golden brown and cooked throughout (break one of the first ones open and give it a little test to make sure it is done). Transfer to a baking sheet lined with a wire rack to drain.
7. Repeat the process with the remaining doughnuts. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving. Best eaten on the day that they are made.