Description of this recipe
Indulge in the simple pleasure of these homemade doughnuts, made from scratch with love. Light, airy, and coated in a simple sugar glaze, these treats are the perfect way to start your day or enjoy a sweet moment anytime.
Why you will love this recipe
This recipe brings the classic taste of doughnuts right to your kitchen. The process of making them is enjoyable and rewarding, and the fresh, warm doughnuts are far superior to anything you can buy. These doughnuts are soft, flavourful, and can be customized with different glazes and toppings.
Ingredients:
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup warm milk
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
Vegetable oil, for frying
Glaze:
2 cups powdered sugar
¼ cup milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Make sure the yeast is evenly distributed throughout the dry ingredients to ensure proper activation.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the warm milk (about 110°F – just warm to the touch), melted butter, and the egg. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined. The warm milk helps activate the yeast, while the melted butter adds richness and flavour.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients while mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Then, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
Step 4: Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little extra flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency. Properly kneaded dough will result in light and airy doughnuts.
Step 5: First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. A warm environment helps the yeast to work its magic and create a light, fluffy dough.
Step 6: Shape the Doughnuts: Once the dough has doubled, punch it down gently to release the air. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about ½ inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter or two differently sized round cookie cutters to cut out the doughnuts.
Step 7: Second Rise: Place the cut doughnuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes. This second rise is crucial for achieving light and airy doughnuts.
Step 8: Heat the Oil: Pour about 3 inches of vegetable oil into a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) using a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. Maintaining the correct oil temperature is key to achieving perfectly fried doughnuts.
Step 9: Fry the Doughnuts: Carefully place the doughnuts into the hot oil, a few at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 1-2 minutes per side, until they are golden brown. Use a slotted spoon or spider to remove the doughnuts from the oil and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain.
Step 10: Prepare the Glaze: While the doughnuts are cooling slightly, prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the amount of milk to achieve the desired consistency.
Step 11: Glaze the Doughnuts: Dip the warm doughnuts into the glaze, coating them completely. Place the glazed doughnuts back on the wire rack to allow the excess glaze to drip off.
Step 12: Serve and Enjoy: Serve the doughnuts immediately while they are still warm and fresh. These are best enjoyed on the day they are made.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the doughnuts warm with a glass of cold milk, a cup of coffee, or a scoop of ice cream.
Get creative with toppings! Sprinkle the glazed doughnuts with sprinkles, chopped nuts, or chocolate shavings.
Offer a variety of glazes, such as chocolate, maple, or lemon, for a fun doughnut-making station.
Tips:
Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature. Too hot, and the doughnuts will burn on the outside before they cook through; too cool, and they will absorb too much oil.
Avoid overcrowding the pot when frying to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
If you don’t have a doughnut cutter, use a knife to cut out squares or rectangles.
For a lighter texture, try using bread flour instead of all-purpose flour.
Make the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight for a more developed flavour.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours (includes rising time)
Nutritional Information: (Per doughnut, without glaze)
Calories: 220
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion
These homemade doughnuts are a treat that everyone will love. The effort is well worth it for the experience of enjoying fresh, warm, homemade goodness. Whether you are making them for a special occasion or just because, these doughnuts are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can! After kneading the dough, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it overnight. The next day, let the dough come to room temperature for about an hour before rolling and cutting the doughnuts. This allows the dough to relax and will make it easier to handle.
Q2: What can I use if I don’t have a doughnut cutter?
A: If you don’t have a doughnut cutter, you can use two differently sized round cookie cutters. Alternatively, you can use a knife to cut the dough into squares or rectangles. While they won’t have the traditional doughnut shape, they will taste just as delicious!
Q3: How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature?
A: The best way to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature is to use a candy thermometer. The ideal temperature is 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough into it. If the dough turns golden brown in about 1-2 minutes, the oil is ready.
Q4: Can I bake these doughnuts instead of frying them?
A: While these doughnuts are designed to be fried for the best texture and flavour, you can try baking them. Place the cut doughnuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep in mind that baked doughnuts will have a different texture than fried doughnuts, being more cake-like.
Q5: How do I store leftover doughnuts?
A: Leftover doughnuts are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed on the day they are made, but they will still be good for up to two days. If they become a little stale, you can warm them up in the oven for a few minutes to refresh their texture.
