Classic Doughnuts Recipe

Classic Doughnuts Recipe

Introduction

Classic Doughnuts are a timeless indulgence that everyone loves. Whether you’re making them for a weekend treat or a special occasion, these homemade doughnuts are light, fluffy, and coated with sweet glaze or sugar for the perfect finishing touch. The best part is that you can enjoy fresh, warm doughnuts in just a few simple steps!

Ingredients

For the doughnuts:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 3 1/2 cups (440g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for rolling
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the glaze:

• 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough:

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Stir and let sit for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, eggs, remaining sugar, salt, and nutmeg.
3. Add the frothy yeast mixture and vanilla extract to the wet ingredients and stir to combine.
4. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing after each addition, until the dough starts to come together.
5. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much.

2. Let the dough rise:

1. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

3. Roll out and shape the doughnuts:

1. Punch the dough down to release the air.
2. Turn it onto a floured surface and roll it out to about 1/2 inch thick.
3. Use a doughnut cutter or two round cookie cutters (one larger, one smaller) to cut out doughnut shapes. You can also use a glass and a bottle cap for the holes.
4. Place the cut doughnuts on a floured tray or parchment paper and cover with a towel. Let them rise for another 30 minutes.

4. Fry the doughnuts:

1. Heat about 2–3 inches of vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Carefully drop the doughnuts into the hot oil, a few at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown and puffed up.
3. Use a slotted spoon to remove the doughnuts from the oil and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

5. Prepare the glaze:

1. In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth. Adjust the milk to achieve your desired glaze consistency (thicker for a thicker glaze, thinner for a light coating).

6. Coat the doughnuts:

1. While the doughnuts are still warm, dip each one into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off.
2. Place the glazed doughnuts on a wire rack to set for a few minutes.

Tips for Success

• Frying temperature: Keep the oil at a steady temperature (350°F or 175°C). If the temperature is too low, the doughnuts will absorb too much oil and be greasy. If too high, they’ll cook too quickly and burn.
• Custom toppings: You can also roll the doughnuts in cinnamon sugar, powdered sugar, or drizzle with chocolate glaze for variation.
• Doughnut holes: Don’t waste the doughnut holes! They can be fried along with the doughnuts and dipped in the same glaze or cinnamon sugar.
• Storage: These doughnuts are best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat them briefly in the microwave for the best taste.

Conclusion

These Classic Doughnuts are soft, fluffy, and irresistibly delicious! Perfect for any occasion, they can be customized with your favorite glazes and toppings for a sweet treat that everyone will love. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, a snack, or a dessert, these homemade doughnuts will certainly be a hit.

Would you like suggestions for different types of glazes or other doughnut flavors? 😊