The Ultimate Doughnut Recipe: From Mix to Mouthwatering Glaze
This isn't just any doughnut recipe; it's your passport to fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this guide will walk you through creating delicious doughnuts from scratch, complete with a luscious glaze that will leave everyone wanting more. Get ready to unleash your inner pastry chef!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe yields approximately 12 doughnuts. Adjust quantities as needed for larger batches.
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 ½ - 4 cups all-purpose flour
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-4 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: sprinkles, chocolate chips, chopped nuts
Step-by-Step Doughnut Making Guide:
Activating the Yeast:
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and granulated sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This proves the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!
Mixing the Dough:
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Add the egg, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined.
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Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
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Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
First Rise (Proofing):
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This allows the yeast to do its work, creating those airy pockets we all love in a doughnut.
Shaping the Doughnuts:
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Punch down the dough to release the air. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ½ inch thickness.
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Use a doughnut cutter (or a biscuit cutter and a smaller round cutter to create the hole) to cut out the doughnuts.
Second Rise:
- Place the doughnuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
Frying the Doughnuts:
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Heat about 3 inches of oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
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Carefully fry the doughnuts for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Don't overcrowd the pot; fry in batches to ensure even cooking.
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Remove the doughnuts from the oil and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Glazing the Doughnuts:
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While the doughnuts are still warm, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the amount of milk to achieve your desired consistency.
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Dip the doughnuts into the glaze, coating them evenly. Add sprinkles, chocolate chips, or nuts for extra flair.
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Let the glaze set before serving.
Tips for Doughnut Success:
- Use a thermometer: Monitoring the oil temperature is crucial for perfectly cooked doughnuts.
- Don't overcrowd the pot: This will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy doughnuts.
- Let them cool: Allow the doughnuts to cool slightly before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different glazes and toppings to create your own signature doughnuts!
Enjoy your homemade doughnuts! They're the perfect treat for any occasion. Remember to share your creations and tag us! #HomemadeDoughnuts #BakingFun #DoughnutRecipe #SweetTreats