Homemade Donuts Recipe

Nothing beats the smell of freshly made donuts! These homemade donuts are soft, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you prefer them glazed, dusted with sugar, or filled with your favorite cream, this recipe will satisfy your sweet tooth.

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Ingredients

For the Donut Dough:

• 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For Frying:

• 4 cups vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)

For the Glaze (Optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp milk
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For Topping Options:

• Granulated sugar or cinnamon sugar
• Chocolate glaze or sprinkles

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, mix the warm milk and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This means the yeast is activated.

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Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
2. Add the eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and the activated yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

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Step 3: Shape the Donuts

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
2. Roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness.
3. Use a donut cutter (or a round cookie cutter and a smaller cutter for the center) to cut out donut shapes. Re-roll scraps and repeat.
4. Place the donuts on a floured baking sheet, cover with a towel, and let them rise again for 30 minutes.

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Step 4: Fry the Donuts

1. Heat the oil in a large pot or deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain the temperature.
2. Fry the donuts in batches, about 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown.
3. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the donuts to a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

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Step 5: Add the Topping

1. For the Glaze: Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Dip the warm donuts into the glaze and let excess drip off before placing them on a wire rack.
2. For Cinnamon Sugar: Roll warm donuts in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon.
3. For Chocolate Glaze: Melt chocolate with a bit of cream and dip the donuts, then top with sprinkles if desired.

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Tips for Perfect Donuts

1. Use Warm Ingredients: Warm milk helps activate the yeast, and room-temperature eggs mix better with the dough.
2. Monitor the Oil Temperature: Keep it steady at 350°F for even frying.
3. Don’t Overcrowd: Fry a few donuts at a time to prevent the oil temperature from dropping.
4. Cool Slightly Before Glazing: This helps the glaze set perfectly.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and Fluffy: Perfectly light and airy texture.
• Customizable: Glaze, sugar, chocolate, or cream-filled—the choice is yours!
• Fun to Make: A great activity to do with family or friends.

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Nutritional Information (Per Donut)

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 15g