donuts

A classic recipe for homemade donuts:

Ingredients:

• 2 and 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• Vegetable oil for frying

Optional Glaze:

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

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.

2. In a small saucepan, heat the milk, water, and butter until the butter melts and the mixture is warm (about 110°F/43°C). Remove from heat.

3. Beat the eggs in a separate bowl. Add the beaten eggs and the warm milk mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir until well combined.

4. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

6. Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Roll it out on a floured surface to a 1/2-inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or a round cookie cutter to cut out the donuts. If you don't have a cutter, you can use a drinking glass for the outer circle and a bottle cap for the inner circle.

7. Place the cut donuts and donut holes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

8. While the donuts are rising, heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 350°F (175°C).

9. Carefully drop a few donuts into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry each side for about 1-2 minutes or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the donuts and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Repeat with the remaining donuts.

10. If desired, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a shallow bowl. Add food coloring if desired. Dip each donut into the glaze and place them on a wire rack to allow the excess glaze to drip off.

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

Feel free to get creative with toppings, fillings, or glaze flavors to customize your donuts. Enjoy!