Introduction: There’s something undeniably satisfying about sinking your teeth into a warm, freshly made doughnut. Classic doughnuts, with their soft, fluffy texture and sweet glaze, are a perfect treat for breakfast, dessert, or anytime you want something indulgent. This recipe for homemade doughnuts uses simple ingredients and yields delicious, golden doughnuts that are crispy on the outside and airy on the inside.
Ingredients:
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
1/4 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 tsp salt
2 large eggs
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp vanilla extract
Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Glaze:
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and yeast. Stir until the yeast dissolves, then let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
Make Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture, warm water, remaining sugar, melted butter, salt, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add the flour one cup at a time, mixing after each addition, until the dough starts to come together.
Knead Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Roll Out Dough: Punch down the dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter or two round cookie cutters (one larger and one smaller for the hole) to cut out doughnuts.
Fry Doughnuts: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the doughnuts in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 1-2 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Make Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
Glaze Doughnuts: Once the doughnuts have cooled slightly, dip them into the glaze, ensuring an even coating. Allow any excess glaze to drip off.
Serve:
Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.
Description:
These classic doughnuts are a timeless treat that never fails to delight. They’re light, airy, and perfectly sweet, with a golden crisp exterior. The glaze adds a sweet, glossy finish, making them irresistible. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, these doughnuts are sure to please your taste buds.
Tips:
Frying Temperature: Maintain a consistent oil temperature of 350°F (175°C) while frying. Too hot, and the doughnuts will burn; too cool, and they’ll absorb too much oil.
Doughnut Cutter: If you don’t have a doughnut cutter, you can use a large round cutter for the outer shape and a smaller cutter (or bottle cap) for the hole in the center.
Rising Time: Ensure the dough rises fully for the best texture. If you’re in a cooler environment, let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area like an oven with the light on.
Flavor Variations: Add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a subtle spice. You can also mix in some orange zest for a citrusy twist.
Variations:
Chocolate Glazed Doughnuts: After glazing, dip the doughnuts in melted chocolate for a decadent twist.
Sugar-Coated Doughnuts: Skip the glaze and toss the fried doughnuts in a mixture of cinnamon sugar for a simple, sugary coating.
Filled Doughnuts: After frying, make a small hole in the doughnut and fill it with jam, chocolate, or custard for a delicious surprise inside.
Vegan Doughnuts: Replace the eggs with flax eggs and use a dairy-free milk alternative like almond milk, along with a plant-based butter.
Correction:
If your doughnuts become too greasy, it could be a sign that the oil temperature was too low. Make sure the oil is at the right temperature, and avoid overcrowding the pot when frying. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature and can result in soggy doughnuts.
Enjoy:
These classic doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer with the glaze still shiny and warm. Whether you enjoy them as a morning treat with coffee or as an afternoon indulgence, they are sure to be a favorite. Enjoy the homemade goodness!