Ingredients:
- 1 ¼ cups milk, warmed to about 110°F (43°C)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (one packet) active dry yeast
- 2 eggs
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Oil for frying (canola or vegetable)
Instructions:
- Proof the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, dissolve 1 teaspoon of sugar into the warm milk. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk and let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix the Dough:
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, mix the eggs, melted butter, the rest of the sugar, and salt. Add the proofed yeast mixture and start mixing at low speed.
- Gradually add the flour and nutmeg, if using. Increase the speed to medium and knead until the dough is smooth and pulls away from the sides of the bowl, about 4 to 6 minutes.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Shape the Doughnuts:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ½ inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter or two differently sized round cutters to cut out the doughnuts and holes.
- Transfer the cut doughnuts and holes to parchment-lined baking sheets. Cover with a kitchen towel and let them rise until puffy, about 30 to 45 minutes.
- Fry the Doughnuts:
- Heat about 3 inches of oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C). Fry the doughnuts a few at a time, careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 1 minute per side until golden brown.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the doughnuts to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- Glaze or Sugar:
- For a simple glaze, mix 2 cups of powdered sugar with 3 to 4 tablespoons of milk and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Dip the warm doughnuts in the glaze, or roll them in granulated or cinnamon sugar.
Conclusion
Homemade doughnuts are a delightful project that can be customized with various toppings and flavors. Whether you glaze, sugar, or fill them, these doughnuts are sure to impress with their delicious taste and satisfying texture. Enjoy the process of making them and the joy of sharing your sweet creations.