Donuts

Here's a simple donut recipe

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup whole milk

2 teaspoons active dry yeast

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 large eggs

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Confectioners' sugar for dusting (optional)

Toppings (optional):

Glaze: powdered sugar, milk

Chocolate frosting: melted chocolate, heavy cream

Sprinkles, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut

Instructions

Proof the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk (105°F - 115°F) and yeast. Stir to dissolve, then let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.

Add eggs and yeast mixture: Add eggs, melted butter, and yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a smooth batter forms.

Knead the dough: Using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment or a wooden spoon, knead the dough for 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Punch down the dough: Once risen, punch down the dough to release air bubbles.

Cut out donuts: Use a donut cutter or a glass to cut out donuts. You should be able to get about 6-8 donuts.

Fry the donuts: Heat about 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the donuts for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.

Drain and cool: Place the fried donuts on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Let cool for a few minutes before glazing or dusting with confectioners' sugar.

Tips

Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the donuts.

Don't overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary.

If you want to get creative, try adding different flavors like vanilla, cinnamon, or nutmeg to the dough.

Enjoy your donuts.