Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a fresh, homemade donut. Follow this recipe to make your own batch of heavenly fried pastries that will make you rethink store-bought forever.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 240 ml milk
– 50 g white sugar
– 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 2 large eggs
– 115 g butter, melted
– 500 g all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Oil for frying
– 100 g powdered sugar
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: 12 donuts
Directions:
1. Warm the milk until it’s slightly warm to the touch. Mix in the sugar and yeast, letting it sit for about 5 minutes or until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the melted butter. Gradually add the yeast mixture, stirring until well combined.
3. In another bowl, combine the flour and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and allow it to rise until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness. Cut out donuts using a donut cutter or two different-sized round cutters.
6. Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pan to 180°C (350°F). Fry the donuts a few at a time until golden brown, about 1 minute per side.
7. Remove donuts and drain on paper towels. Once slightly cooled, coat them generously with powdered sugar.
Enjoy your homemade donuts and savor the delightful taste that will have you forgetting about store-bought versions forever!
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
Warm the milk until it’s slightly warm to the touch, making it comforting yet not too hot. Mix in the white sugar and sprinkle the active dry yeast on top. Allow this mixture to sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy and fragrant, signaling that the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat the large eggs until they’re well combined, then stir in the melted butter, which adds a rich flavor. Gradually pour in the frothy yeast mixture, stirring gently until everything is harmoniously combined, yielding a lovely creamy texture.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour and salt, creating a cloud of fragrant flour that will form the body of the donuts. Slowly add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until the dough starts to come together and form a mass.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface, and knead it for about 5 minutes. This process activates the gluten, giving your donuts their delightful elasticity. Aim for a smooth, slightly tacky dough. Once ready, place it in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and allow it to rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size, which will take around 1 to 1.5 hours.
Step 5: Shape the Donuts
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air bubbles. Roll it out on a floured surface to about a half-inch thickness, creating a soft blanket for the donuts. Use a donut cutter or two different-sized round cutters to cut out donut shapes. Be sure to cut out holes for that classic donut look, and gather any scraps to reroll and cut more.
Step 6: Fry the Donuts
Heat oil in a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pan to 180°C (350°F). Carefully drop the donuts into the hot oil a few at a time, taking care not to overcrowd them. Fry for about 1 minute per side, watching for a beautiful golden brown color to develop, sending alluring aromas through your kitchen.
Step 7: Drain and Sugar the Donuts
Using a slotted spoon, remove the donuts from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. Once they are slightly cooled, generously coat them in powdered sugar, letting it stick to the warm surface, creating a sweet, snowy finish that tempts you to take a bite right away.
Notes
Note 1: Choosing the Right Yeast
Make sure to use active dry yeast; quickly check the expiration date before starting to ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
Note 2: Oil Temperature
Maintaining the oil temperature is crucial. If the oil is too cool, the donuts will absorb too much grease; if too hot, they may burn on the outside while remaining raw inside.
Note 3: Flavor Variations
Feel free to experiment with different flavors by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg or a splash of vanilla to the dough for an extra layer of taste.
Note 4: Donut Storage
These donuts are best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, but prepare for them to lose some of their original crispiness. Reheat in a toaster oven for the best result.
Cook techniques
Proofing Yeast
To activate the yeast, mix it with warm milk and sugar, allowing it to froth for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for ensuring your donuts rise properly.
Kneading Dough
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This process helps develop gluten, giving the donuts their structure.
First Rise
After kneading, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise until it doubles in size. This usually takes 1 to 1.5 hours and is essential for a light and fluffy texture.
Rolling and Cutting
Once the dough has risen, roll it out to a thickness of about 1/2 inch. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters to create the donut shapes.
Frying
Heat oil to 180°C (350°F) before frying the donuts. Carefully drop the donuts into the oil and fry for about 1 minute on each side until golden brown.
Draining and Coating
After frying, drain the donuts on paper towels to remove excess oil. Once they are slightly cooled, generously coat them with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
FAQ
Can I use different types of flour?
Yes, while all-purpose flour is recommended for the best texture, you can experiment with other flours, but it may alter the consistency.
What can I do if my dough isn’t rising?
If your dough isn’t rising, your yeast may be expired or the liquid may have been too hot or too cold. Ensure optimal temperature (around 37°C or 98°F) when activating the yeast.
How can I store leftover donuts?
Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them.
Can I fill the donuts with jam or cream?
Absolutely! After frying the donuts, you can fill them with your favorite jam or cream using a piping bag fitted with a nozzle.
What oil is best for frying donuts?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil or canola oil, to achieve the best frying results.
Conclusion
There’s something special about making donuts from scratch—each bite is a delight that is hard to replicate with store-bought options. By following this simple recipe, you not only get to enjoy warm, fresh donuts but also have the satisfaction of creating a treat that can be customized to your liking. Once you experience the taste and texture of homemade donuts, you may find it difficult to go back to the store!
Classic Glazed Donuts
Elevate your homemade donuts with a classic glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Dip each fried donut into the glaze for a sweet and shiny finish.
Chocolate-Frosted Donuts
Take your donuts to the next level by dipping them in a rich chocolate glaze. Melt dark or milk chocolate with a bit of butter for a decadent coating.
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
For a warm and comforting flavor, toss your freshly fried donuts in a mixture of cinnamon and granulated sugar. This simple combination adds an extra layer of sweetness and fragrance.
Fruit-Filled Donuts
Experiment with fillings by adding your favorite jams, jellies, or even custard. Use a piping bag to fill the donuts after frying for a delicious surprise in each bite.
Maple Bacon Donuts
For a savory twist, top your glazed donuts with crumbled crispy bacon and a drizzle of maple syrup. This combination balances sweet and salty flavors perfectly.
Vegan Donuts
Substitute dairy and eggs with plant-based alternatives to create a delightful vegan version. Use almond or oat milk and a flaxseed meal as an egg replacement.
Almond Joy Donuts
Incorporate shredded coconut and chopped almonds into your batter, and top the donuts with a chocolate glaze to capture the flavors of the candy bar.
Matcha Green Tea Donuts
For a health-conscious option, add matcha powder to the dough. This adds a unique flavor and a beautiful green color, making it visually appealing.
Pumpkin Spice Donuts
Perfect for fall, mix pumpkin puree and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves into your dough for seasonal delight. Top with cream cheese glaze for extra richness.
