Golden, fluffy, and irresistibly delicious, these homemade doughnuts are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether glazed, dusted with sugar, or filled with jam, they bring a comforting sweetness that rivals any bakery. This recipe uses yeast for a light and airy texture, ensuring each bite is soft and pillowy. With a simple dough and a quick frying process, you’ll have fresh doughnuts ready to enjoy in no time.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup Warm Milk (about 110°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons Active Dry Yeast
- ⅓ cup Granulated Sugar
- 2 Large Eggs
- 6 tablespoons Unsalted Butter, melted
- 1 ½ teaspoons Vanilla Extract
- ½ teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (optional, for flavor)
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- 4 cups All-Purpose Flour
For Frying:
- 2 quarts Vegetable Oil
For the Glaze (Optional):
- 2 cups Confectioners’ Sugar
- ⅓ cup Heavy Cream
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
For Sugar Coating (Optional):
- ½ cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar.
- Cover loosely and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
- Add the remaining sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and salt to the yeast mixture.
- Gradually mix in 2 cups of flour, stirring until combined.
- Add the remaining 2 cups of flour and mix until the dough comes together.
- Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and slightly sticky.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1.5-2 hours until doubled in size.
Step 3: Shape the Doughnuts
- Punch down the dough and roll it out to ½-inch thickness on a floured surface.
- Use a 3-inch doughnut cutter to cut out doughnuts. Re-roll scraps as needed.
- Place doughnuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let rest for 30 minutes.
Step 4: Fry the Doughnuts
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry 2-3 doughnuts at a time, cooking for 1 minute per side until golden brown.
- Remove and place on a wire rack lined with paper towels.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch
- For glazed doughnuts, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
- Dip warm doughnuts into the glaze and let set for 20 minutes.
- For sugar-coated doughnuts, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon, then roll warm doughnuts in the mixture.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Enjoy fresh, warm doughnuts with coffee or milk.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Tips for Perfect Doughnuts:
- Use warm milk to activate the yeast properly.
- Don’t over-knead the dough—just enough for a soft texture.
- Maintain oil temperature for even frying.
- Glaze while warm for the best coating.
These homemade doughnuts are a delightful treat, perfect for breakfast or dessert. Whether you prefer them glazed, sugared, or filled, they’re sure to bring joy with every bite! 🍩✨