Here’s a simple and classic Doughnuts recipe that’s perfect for making fluffy, soft doughnuts at home. These doughnuts are fried and can be glazed, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with your favorite frosting!
Classic Homemade Doughnuts Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup water, warmed
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
For the Glaze (optional):
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Make the Dough:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer), whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture, warm milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the flour mixture. Mix until the dough comes together.
- Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes (using your hands or a dough hook on medium speed) until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Shape the Doughnuts:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness.
- Use a doughnut cutter (or two round cookie cutters, one larger and one smaller) to cut out the doughnuts. Place the doughnuts and doughnut holes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cover the cut doughnuts and let them rest for another 30-45 minutes, or until puffed up.
3. Fry the Doughnuts:
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (180°C). Ensure there’s enough oil for the doughnuts to float while frying.
- Carefully fry the doughnuts in batches, about 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the doughnuts and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
4. Make the Glaze (optional):
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Dip the warm doughnuts into the glaze and place them on a wire rack to let the excess glaze drip off.
5. Serve:
- Let the doughnuts cool slightly, then enjoy fresh with your favorite toppings or a simple glaze!
These homemade doughnuts are soft, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion!