Homemade Doughnuts Recipe

Introduction

Nothing beats the taste of freshly made Homemade Doughnuts! Whether you prefer them glazed, sugared, or filled with delicious cream, this recipe will guide you through making light, fluffy, and flavorful doughnuts from scratch. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any time you need a sweet treat!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for extra flavor)
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Classic Glaze:

• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Cinnamon Sugar Coating (Alternative):

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Optional Fillings & Toppings:

• Melted chocolate for dipping
• Jam, custard, or Nutella for filling
• Sprinkles or chopped nuts for decoration

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a small bowl, mix warm milk, 1 tablespoon sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, remaining sugar, salt, and nutmeg.
3. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients.
4. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape the Doughnuts

1. Roll out the dough to 1/2-inch thickness on a floured surface.
2. Cut out circles using a doughnut cutter or two different-sized round cutters.
3. Place doughnuts on a parchment-lined tray, cover lightly, and let rise for 30-45 minutes.

Step 3: Fry the Doughnuts

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry doughnuts in batches for 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown.
3. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4: Add Glaze or Coating

1. For classic glazed doughnuts, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla.
2. Dip warm doughnuts into the glaze and let set on a wire rack.
3. For cinnamon sugar coating, mix sugar and cinnamon, then roll warm doughnuts in the mixture.
4. If filling doughnuts, use a piping bag to inject jam, custard, or Nutella into the center.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh yeast for the best rise and texture.
• Monitor oil temperature to prevent burning or undercooking.
• Let the dough rise fully for fluffy and airy doughnuts.
• Eat fresh for the best taste, but you can store leftovers for up to 2 days in an airtight container.

Variations

• Chocolate Doughnuts: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the dough.
• Baked Doughnuts: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes instead of frying.
• Maple Glazed: Replace vanilla with maple extract in the glaze.

Conclusion

Making Homemade Doughnuts is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Whether you like them classic, filled, or coated, these doughnuts will be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy!