Donuts are a classic sweet treat that are perfect for any occasion, from breakfast to dessert. While store-bought donuts can be delicious, there’s nothing quite like the taste of a freshly fried homemade donut. With this easy recipe, you can make your own donuts at home and impress your family and friends with your baking skills.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need:
- 300g all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp instant yeast
- 200ml milk
- 60g unsalted butter
- 50g granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- oil for frying
- 100g powdered sugar
Instructions
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In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and instant yeast. Mix well.
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In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter over low heat until the butter is melted. Remove from heat.
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Add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract to the milk mixture. Stir well.
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Pour the milk mixture into the flour mixture and stir until a dough forms.
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Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
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Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
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After the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two round cookie cutters to cut out donuts.
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Heat oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 375°F. Carefully drop the donuts into the hot oil and fry for about 1-2 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the donuts from the hot oil and place them on a wire rack to cool.
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Dust the cooled donuts with powdered sugar and enjoy!
Variations
While classic donuts are delicious on their own, there are many ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas:
- Glazed donuts: Instead of dusting the donuts with powdered sugar, make a simple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a little bit of milk and vanilla extract. Dip the cooled donuts in the glaze and let them dry on a wire rack.
- Chocolate donuts: Add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the flour mixture to make chocolate donuts. You can also make a chocolate glaze by mixing powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and milk.
- Filled donuts: Use a piping bag to fill the donuts with your favorite filling, such as jam or pastry cream, before dusting them with powdered sugar or glazing them.
- Vegan donuts: Use non-dairy milk and vegan butter in the recipe, and replace the eggs with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water).
FAQ
Can I bake the donuts instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the donuts instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the donuts for about 10-12 minutes or until they are golden brown.
What type of flour should I use for making donuts?
You should use all-purpose flour for making donuts. Cake flour can also be used for a lighter texture.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying the donuts?
You can test the oil temperature by dropping a small piece of bread or a donut hole into the oil. If it sizzles and starts to turn golden brown within a few seconds, the oil is ready for frying.
Can I use a deep fryer to fry the donuts?
Yes, you can use a deep fryer to fry the donuts. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for heating the oil and frying the donuts.
How do I store the donuts?
You can store the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the donuts for up to 3 months.
Can I make the dough ahead of time and fry them later?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and fry them later. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Can I use a different type of oil for frying the donuts?
Yes, you can use a different type of oil for frying the donuts. Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are all good options.
How can I make the donuts healthier?
You can make the donuts healthier by baking them instead of frying them, using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, and reducing the amount of sugar in the recipe.
Can I use a donut cutter to shape the donuts?
Yes, you can use a donut cutter to shape the donuts. If you don’t have a donut cutter, you can use a biscuit cutter or a drinking glass to cut out the donut shapes.
How can I decorate the donuts?
You can decorate the donuts with glaze, frosting, sprinkles, or powdered sugar. Use your favorite toppings to make the donuts look and taste delicious!
