Soft Fluffy Donuts

Ingredients

  • 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • ½ cup warm milk (about 110°F / 45°C)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (more as needed)
  • Oil, for frying (vegetable or canola oil)

Optional for coating:

  • ½ cup granulated sugar or powdered sugar
  • Cinnamon (optional)
  • Glaze or melted chocolate for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast:
    • In a bowl, combine warm milk, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Make the Dough:
    • In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, remaining sugar, butter, and salt.
    • Add the yeast mixture.
    • Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
    • Knead the dough for about 5–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add a little flour if it’s too sticky.
  3. First Rise:
    • Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  4. Shape the Donuts:
    • Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface to about ½ inch thick.
    • Use a donut cutter or two round cutters (one large, one small) to cut out donuts.
    • Place cut donuts on parchment paper, cover lightly with a towel, and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
  5. Fry:
    • Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
    • Carefully fry 2–3 donuts at a time until golden brown, about 1 minute per side.
    • Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  6. Coat:
    • While warm, toss in sugar or dip in glaze/chocolate.

Would you like a version for baking instead of frying?

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