Doughnuts

 Doughnuts

                                                                           

Ingredients:

For the doughnuts:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup warm milk (around 110°F or 43°C)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs

For frying:

Vegetable oil

For the glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup milk or water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, a pinch of sugar, and the yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it's frothy.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt.

Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and eggs to the dry ingredients.

Mix everything together until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

First Rise:

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Shape the Doughnuts:

Gently punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface.

Roll the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness.

Use a donut cutter or two round cookie cutters (one larger and one smaller) to cut out the donuts. You can also shape doughnut holes from the scraps.

Second Rise:

Place the cut-out doughnuts onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a cloth and let them rise for about 30-45 minutes.

Frying:

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to around 350°F (175°C).

Carefully slide the doughnuts into the hot oil using a slotted spoon. Be cautious not to overcrowd the pot.

Fry each side for about 1-2 minutes until they are golden brown. Use the slotted spoon to remove them and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Glazing:

For the glaze, mix the powdered sugar, milk (or water), and vanilla extract (if using) in a bowl until smooth.

Dip each cooled donut into the glaze and place it on a wire rack to let the excess glaze drip off.

Enjoy:

Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade donuts!

Remember, frying can be dangerous, so exercise caution and use proper safety precautions when working with hot oil.