A donut also spelled doughnut, is a delicious and popular deep-fried dessert that has become a beloved treat worldwide. Typically, it's made from dough that's shaped into a ring, filled, or formed into various shapes, then fried until golden brown and finally topped with glaze, icing, sugar, or other toppings.
Donut Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (or 1 packet) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm milk (around 110°F or 45°C)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
Optional Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 tablespoons milk or water
Instructions:
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk and a pinch of sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the milk and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the activated yeast mixture, sugar, salt, egg, softened butter, and half of the flour. Mix until well combined. Gradually add the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough: On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours until it doubles in size.
- Shape the donuts: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out to about ½ inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two differently sized round cutters (one large, one small) to cut out the donuts. Place the shaped donuts onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover them, and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Fry the donuts: Heat oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place a few donuts into the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd the pot. Fry each side for about 1-2 minutes or until golden brown. Remove the donuts using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Make the glaze: If desired, mix powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk or water in a bowl until smooth. Dip the cooled donuts into the glaze or drizzle it over the top.
- Enjoy: Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes, then enjoy your homemade donuts!
Remember, this is a basic recipe, and you can customize your donuts by adding flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, or lemon zest to the dough, or experimenting with various glazes and fillings.
Whether glazed, frosted, filled with jelly, cream, or left plain, donuts are a delight to prepare and savor. They’re perfect for breakfast, a sweet snack, or any occasion that calls for a delicious treat!
