Donuts:

### Instructions:

#### 1. **Activate the Yeast**:
Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently to dissolve the sugar, then let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This step ensures that the yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise.

#### 2. **Make the Donut Dough**:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Add the activated yeast mixture, eggs, butter, and vanilla extract. Use a spoon or your hands to mix until the dough comes together.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much—this dough should be slightly soft and tacky.

#### 3. **Let the Dough Rise**:
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it has doubled in size. Patience is key here, as the longer the dough rises, the fluffier the donuts will be.

#### 4. **Shape the Donuts**:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Roll the dough out onto a floured surface to about ½ inch thickness. Use a donut cutter (or two round cookie cutters, one large and one small) to cut out the donut shapes. If you don’t have a donut cutter, you can also shape the donuts into circles with your hands.

Place the donuts and donut holes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover them with a kitchen towel and let them rest for 20-30 minutes while you heat the oil.

#### 5. **Heat the Oil**:
In a large pot or deep fryer, heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to use a thermometer to maintain the correct temperature, as oil that’s too hot or too cold will affect the texture and taste of the donuts.

#### 6. **Fry the Donuts**:
Carefully place the donuts into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry the donuts for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove the donuts from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.

#### 7. **Make the Glaze (optional)**:
While the donuts are cooling, you can make the glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. If you prefer a thicker glaze, use less milk; for a thinner glaze, add a little more.

#### 8. **Glaze the Donuts**:
Once the donuts have cooled slightly but are still warm, dip them into the glaze. You can dip one side or both sides, depending on how much glaze you want. For an extra touch, sprinkle them with colorful sprinkles, cinnamon sugar, or chocolate chips.

#### 9. **Serve and Enjoy**:
Allow the donuts to cool slightly and the glaze to set before serving. Pair them with your morning coffee or enjoy them as an afternoon treat.

### Why This Recipe Works:

– **Soft and Fluffy Texture**: The yeast dough gives the donuts a light, airy texture. The key to perfect donuts is allowing the dough to rise properly and frying them at the right temperature.

– **Golden Brown Exterior**: Frying the donuts gives them a golden, crisp exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft, pillowy interior.

– **Customizable Toppings**: The glaze is just one option—feel free to dip the donuts in powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, or melted chocolate, or fill them with jam, cream, or custard for extra sweetness.

### Tips for Success:

– **Don’t Rush the Rising**: The dough needs time to rise in order to achieve that fluffy texture. Be patient and allow the dough to rise in a warm place for the best results.

– **Fry in Batches**: Fry the donuts in small batches to prevent the temperature of the oil from dropping too much. This ensures even cooking and prevents greasy donuts.

– **Don’t Overcrowd the Pot**: Overcrowding the pot can cause the oil temperature to drop, which leads to soggy donuts. Fry 2-3 donuts at a time depending on the size of your pot.

– **Fillings**: You can get creative by adding fillings like chocolate, jam, or cream. Simply inject the filling into the center of the donut once it has cooled slightly.

### Final Thoughts:

Making homemade donuts is a fun, rewarding experience that results in a treat everyone will love. The **soft, fluffy texture**, combined with the **sweet glaze** or your favorite toppings, makes these donuts irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion, a weekend treat, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

So get your ingredients together, fire up the fryer, and indulge in the warmth and joy that comes with making **fresh homemade donuts** from scratch! You’ll never want to go back to store-bought again.