Simple Donut Recipe: A Delightfully Easy Treat
Making donuts at home might seem daunting, but this simple donut recipe proves it's easier than you think! This recipe focuses on achieving a deliciously fluffy texture and a perfectly golden-brown exterior, all without complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these homemade delights.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This simple donut recipe relies on pantry staples, making it perfect for a spontaneous baking session.
- 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 slightly cooled
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- ½ teaspoon salt
- For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- For the Glaze (Optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-4 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these simple instructions for perfectly fluffy donuts every time.
1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This indicates the yeast is active and ready to work its magic!
2. Combine Wet Ingredients:
- Once foamy, whisk in the egg and melted butter.
3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough:
- 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, a tablespoon at a time.
5. First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Shape the Donuts:
- Punch down the dough to release the air. Roll it out to about ½ inch thickness. Use a donut cutter (or a biscuit cutter and a smaller round cutter for the hole) to cut out the donuts.
7. Second Rise (Optional):
- Place the donuts on a lightly floured baking sheet and let rise for another 30 minutes. This step helps them achieve a lighter texture.
8. Fry the Donuts:
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). Carefully fry the donuts in batches for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the donuts and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
9. Make the Glaze (Optional):
- While the donuts are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the milk to achieve your desired consistency.
10. Glaze and Enjoy:
- Once the donuts are cool enough to handle, drizzle them with the glaze. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious homemade donuts!
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pot: Fry the donuts in batches to ensure even cooking and prevent the oil temperature from dropping too much.
- Use a thermometer: A deep-fry thermometer is crucial for maintaining the correct oil temperature.
- Let them cool: Allow the donuts to cool slightly before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different glazes, sprinkles, and other toppings to customize your donuts.
This simple donut recipe is a great starting point for your baking adventures. With a little practice, you'll be making perfect donuts every time! Enjoy!
