Ingredients:
For the Doughnuts:
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For Coating (optional):
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk mixture and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Make the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and nutmeg.
- Add the softened butter and eggs to the frothy yeast mixture. Mix well.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
3. Roll and Cut:
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch thickness.
- Cut out doughnut shapes using a doughnut cutter or two differently sized round cookie cutters (one larger for the outer circle and one smaller for the hole).
- Place the cut doughnuts on a floured surface or parchment paper and let them rise for about 30 minutes.
4. Fry the Doughnuts:
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large, deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully add a few doughnuts to the hot oil, frying for about 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the doughnuts and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Coating (Optional):
- In a bowl, mix together sugar and cinnamon.
- While the doughnuts are still warm, toss them in the sugar-cinnamon mixture to coat.
6. Enjoy:
- Allow the doughnuts to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm!
These homemade doughnuts are a delicious treat, and you can get creative with toppings or fillings if you’d like. Enjoy your baking!