Ingredients:
For the doughnuts:
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm milk
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For frying:
- Vegetable oil (enough for deep frying)
For the glaze (optional):
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 4-6 tablespoons milk or water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or other flavorings (optional)
For topping (optional):
- Sprinkles, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, etc.
Instructions:
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture with sugar, salt, and about 1 cup of flour. Add in the softened butter, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough: On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5-8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
- Shape the doughnuts: After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out to about ½ inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter or two differently sized circular cookie cutters to cut out doughnut shapes. Place the cut doughnuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Heat the oil: In a deep, heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil to about 350-375°F (175-190°C).
- Fry the doughnuts: Carefully place a few doughnuts into the hot oil, frying each side for about 1-2 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Glaze the doughnuts (optional): In a bowl, mix together powdered sugar, milk or water, and vanilla extract to create a glaze. Dip each cooled doughnut into the glaze and place them back on the rack to let the glaze set.
- Add toppings (optional): While the glaze is still wet, you can sprinkle on your choice of toppings like sprinkles, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut.
- Enjoy! Let the glaze set, and your homemade doughnuts are ready to be savored.
Feel free to customize the glaze or toppings to suit your preferences!
