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Chocolate and pink glazed doughnuts with decorative drizzles and toppings on a marble surface.

Homemade Doughnuts Recipe

This recipe for homemade doughnuts is simple and delicious, yielding light and fluffy treats. Start by activating yeast in warm milk and sugar, then mix with flour, butter, egg, and vanilla to form a dough. Knead until smooth, let it rise, shape into doughnuts, and allow a second rise. Fry until golden brown and finish with an optional glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. These doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh and warm!
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Prep Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

For Doughnuts
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup warm milk around 110°F
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Vegetable oil for frying
Forthe Glaze (Optional):
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

  1. Activate the Yeast: Combine warm milk and sugar in a small bowl. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it rest for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  2. Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until a soft dough forms.
  3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Work the dough for 8–10 minutes until it is smooth and stretchy.
  4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1–2 hours or until it doubles in size.
  5. Shape the Doughnuts: Flatten the dough on a floured surface to approximately ½-inch thick. Use a doughnut cutter or two round cutters (one for the outer circle and one for the hole) to shape the dough.
  6. Second Rise: Place the shaped doughnuts on parchment paper. Cover them with a towel and let them rise for 30–45 minutes until puffed.
  7. Fry the Doughnuts: Warm vegetable oil in a deep pot until it reaches 350°F. Fry 2–3 doughnuts at a time for about 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove and drain on a wire rack.