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### **Instructions**
#### **Step 1: Activate the Yeast**
1. **Combine warm milk and yeast**: In a small bowl, add the warm milk and sugar. Stir gently, then sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly. This means the yeast is active and ready to use.
#### **Step 2: Make the Dough**
1. **Mix the wet ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, melted butter, and eggs. Add the activated yeast mixture to this.
2. **Add the dry ingredients**: In the same bowl, add the salt and 3 cups of flour. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until the dough begins to come together.
3. **Knead the dough**: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook if you prefer. Add the remaining flour little by little if the dough is too sticky.
4. **Let the dough rise**: Once the dough is smooth, place it in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
#### **Step 3: Shape the Doughnuts**
1. **Roll out the dough**: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness.
2. **Cut the doughnuts**: Use a doughnut cutter or two round cutters (one large for the outside and one small for the hole) to cut out doughnut shapes. Gather the dough scraps, reroll, and cut more doughnuts.
3. **Rest the doughnuts**: Place the cut doughnuts on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet or tray. Cover them with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes, or until they puff up.
#### **Step 4: Fry the Doughnuts**
1. **Heat the oil**: In a deep pot or Dutch oven, heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to make sure the oil is at the correct temperature to avoid greasy doughnuts.
2. **Fry the doughnuts**: Carefully place the doughnuts into the hot oil, a few at a time, without overcrowding the pot. Fry them for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
#### **Step 5: Glaze or Coat the Doughnuts**
1. **Make the glaze**: While the doughnuts are cooling slightly, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if the glaze is too thick.
2. **Glaze the doughnuts**: Dip the warm doughnuts into the glaze, covering them completely, and place them on a wire rack to set. You can also add sprinkles, chocolate chips, or nuts for extra flair.
3. **Cinnamon sugar coating (optional)**: For a simple cinnamon sugar coating, mix the sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Roll the doughnuts in the mixture while they are still warm for a classic touch.
#### **Step 6: Serve & Enjoy**
Once the glaze has set, serve your fresh, homemade doughnuts immediately and enjoy! They’re best eaten while still warm but will keep for a day or two when stored in an airtight container.
### **Tips for Perfect Doughnuts**
– **Don’t skip the double rise**: The two rises (after kneading and after cutting the doughnuts) are essential for light, fluffy doughnuts. Be patient, and let the dough rise fully.
– **Oil temperature**: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying—too cold and your doughnuts will absorb excess oil, too hot and they will burn. A thermometer is a helpful tool for this.
– **Customize your toppings**: The sky’s the limit when it comes to doughnut toppings. Consider adding chocolate glaze, caramel drizzle, or even fillings like jam, cream, or custard for a different twist.
– **Storage**: While homemade doughnuts are best fresh, you can store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds for a fresh-tasting treat.
### **Why This Recipe Works**
This **Doughnuts Recipe** is the perfect balance of tender, soft dough and crispy, golden brown exteriors. The yeast gives the doughnuts a light, airy texture, while the simple glaze or cinnamon sugar adds just the right touch of sweetness. By making doughnuts at home, you can enjoy the comfort of fresh, warm treats with endless options for customization.
Whether you’re a beginner baker or an experienced cook, this recipe is approachable and results in doughnuts that rival those from your favorite bakery. Plus, you can experiment with different glazes, fillings, and toppings to make them your own.
### **Final Thoughts**
Making homemade doughnuts is an incredibly rewarding experience. The combination of soft, fluffy dough and delicious toppings creates a treat that’s hard to beat. Whether you choose a classic glazed doughnut, a cinnamon-sugar version, or something more adventurous, this doughnut recipe will soon become a favorite in your kitchen.
So, get your apron on, roll up your sleeves, and start frying up some delicious homemade doughnuts!
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