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Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk along with 1 tablespoon of the sugar. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Once combined, add the yeast mixture.
- Gradually mix in the flour and salt, starting with 2 ½ cups of flour. Stir until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, a little at a time, until it pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
- Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
Step 3: Shape the Doughnuts
- Once risen, punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Roll the dough out to about ½ inch thickness. Using a doughnut cutter or two round cutters (one larger and one smaller), cut out doughnuts and doughnut holes. Gather any scraps, re-roll, and cut more doughnuts.
- Place the cut doughnuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them again and let them rise for about 30 minutes.
Step 4: Fry the Doughnuts
- In a deep pot or a heavy skillet, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully drop the doughnuts into the hot oil, a few at a time, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 1-2 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the doughnuts from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Glaze the Doughnuts
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth to create the glaze.
- Dip the warm doughnuts into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. Place them on a wire rack to let the glaze set. If desired, sprinkle toppings while the glaze is still wet.
Tips for Perfect Doughnuts
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your oil is at the correct temperature for frying. If it’s too cool, the doughnuts will absorb too much oil; if it’s too hot, they may burn.
- Don’t Rush the Rise: Allowing the dough to rise properly will give you light and fluffy doughnuts. Be patient during this step!
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or cinnamon to the dough for an extra flavor kick. You can also experiment with flavored glazes, such as chocolate or maple.
- Storage: Doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days. They can also be frozen; just thaw and warm them in the microwave or oven before serving.
Conclusion
Homemade doughnuts are a fun and rewarding treat that everyone will love. With this easy recipe, you can customize them to your heart’s content, creating delicious versions for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them plain, glazed, or topped with your favorite sprinkles, these doughnuts are sure to bring joy to your kitchen. So roll up your sleeves and start frying your way to doughnut perfection today! Enjoy!