Classic Doughnuts Recipe
Ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 3 1/4 cups (400 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) warm water
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter (softened)
- For Frying:
- 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable oil
- Optional Toppings:
- Powdered sugar
- Cinnamon sugar
- Chocolate glaze
- Sprinkles
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and 1 tsp of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture, warm milk, eggs, and softened butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the Dough:
- Knead the dough by hand or using a stand mixer with a dough hook for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, 1 tbsp at a time.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Doughnuts:
- Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch (1.3 cm) thickness.
- Use a round cutter (3 inches/7.5 cm diameter) to cut out circles. Use a smaller cutter (1 inch/2.5 cm) to cut out the centers. Re-roll the scraps and repeat.
- Second Rise:
- Place the doughnuts on parchment paper-lined baking sheets, leaving space between them. Cover lightly and let them rise for 30-45 minutes, or until puffed.
- Fry the Doughnuts:
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the doughnuts in batches, 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Decorate:
- Let the doughnuts cool slightly before decorating. Dust with powdered sugar, roll in cinnamon sugar, or dip in chocolate glaze and add sprinkles.
Tips:
- For filled doughnuts, skip the hole in the center and pipe your favorite filling (jam, custard, or cream) into the doughnuts after frying.
- Store doughnuts in an airtight container for up to 2 days, but they’re best enjoyed fresh!
Enjoy your delicious homemade doughnuts!
