Here’s a simple recipe for homemade doughnuts! These are soft, fluffy, and perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Directions:
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir and let sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- Make the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining sugar, melted butter, eggs, salt, and vanilla. Add the yeast mixture and stir. Gradually add in the flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Once the dough starts coming together, turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5–8 minutes, until smooth and elastic. You may need to add a little extra flour if it’s too sticky.
- Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for about 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the doughnuts: Punch the dough down and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (a glass or a doughnut cutter) to cut out the doughnuts, and a smaller cutter or bottle cap for the holes. Gather the scraps and re-roll to cut more doughnuts.
- Heat the oil: In a large pot, heat about 2–3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to keep track of the temperature, as it should be hot enough for the doughnuts to fry but not burn.
- Fry the doughnuts: Carefully drop the doughnuts into the hot oil, a few at a time, being careful not to overcrowd. Fry for about 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown. Use tongs to remove the doughnuts and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Glaze (optional): Mix together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Dip the warm doughnuts into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off before placing them on a wire rack.
- Enjoy! Let the doughnuts cool slightly and enjoy warm, or at room temperature.
You can also roll them in cinnamon sugar or add sprinkles for extra fun. Happy baking! Let me know how it goes!