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Fluffy donuts

Fluffy Donut Recipe: Easy and Delicious

Fluffy donuts

Expanding Your Recipe

Great start! We have a solid foundation for a fluffy donut recipe. Let's build on it by adding more depth, flavor options, and helpful tips.

Indulge in the irresistible softness of homemade donuts! These fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth treats are a delightful treat for any occasion. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a batch of homemade donuts that will impress even the pickiest sweet tooth.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • 1 cup warm whole milk (for richer flavor)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup (plus 2 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Vegetable shortening or canola oil for frying

For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: cocoa powder, lemon juice, or other flavorings

Instructions:

  • Activate the Yeast:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
  • Create the Dough:
    • Beat in the eggs and melted butter until well combined.
    • Gradually whisk in the flour and salt until a soft dough forms.
    • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
    • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1-1.5 hours.
  • Shape the Donuts:
    • Punch down the risen dough to release the air.
    • Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/2 inch on a lightly floured surface.
    • Use a donut cutter to cut out donut shapes and place them on a lightly greased baking sheet.
    • Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for an additional 30 minutes.
  • Fry to Perfection:
    • Heat oil or shortening in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 375°F (190°C).
    • Carefully lower the donuts into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding.
    • Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
    • Remove the donuts from the oil and drain on paper towels.
  • Create Delicious Glazes:
    • In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and milk until smooth.
    • For variations, stir in cocoa powder for chocolate glaze, lemon juice for lemon glaze, or other flavorings of your choice.
  • Glaze and Enjoy:
    • While the donuts are still warm, dip them in the prepared glaze or drizzle it over the top.
    • Let the glaze set before serving.

Tips for Donut Perfection:

  • For extra richness: Use whole milk instead of skim milk.
  • Temperature control: Maintain the oil temperature at a consistent 375°F (190°C) for evenly cooked donuts.
  • Avoid over-mixing: Overmixing the dough can result in tough donuts.
  • Let it rise: Adequate rising time is crucial for fluffy donuts.
  • Creative fillings: Fill cooled donuts with your favorite jelly, custard, or whipped cream for a decadent treat.
  • Storage: Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

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