Ingredients (makes 10–12 donuts)

For the Dough:

· 2¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast

· ¾ cup warm milk (around 110°F / 43°C)

· ¼ cup sugar

· 2½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)

· ¼ tsp salt

· 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

· 1 large egg

· ½ tsp vanilla extract

For Frying:

· Vegetable oil or canola oil (for deep frying)

For Coating (choose one or mix them up!):

· Plain sugar

· cinnamon sugar (¼ cup sugar + 1 tsp cinnamon)

· Glaze (1 cup powdered sugar + 2 tbsp milk)

· chocolate glaze (1 cup powdered sugar + 2 tbsp cocoa + 2–3 tbsp milk)

🥣 Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

· In a small bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast.

· Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. (If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be inactive.)

2. Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, mix flour and salt.

2. Add butter, egg, vanilla, and the yeast mixture.

3. Mix until dough forms, then knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.

4. Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

3. Shape the Donuts

· Roll out the dough on a floured surface (½-inch thick).

· Cut circles using a donut cutter or two round molds (one larger, one smaller for the hole).

· Place donuts on parchment paper, cover, and let rest 20–30 minutes to puff slightly.

4. Fry the Donuts

· Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pan.

· Fry 2–3 donuts at a time for 1 minute per side until golden brown.

· Drain on paper towels.

5. Coat or Glaze

· Roll in sugar or cinnamon sugar while still warm.

· For glaze or chocolate topping, dip once cooled and let set on a rack.

🌈 Tasty Variations

1. Jelly-Filled Donuts – Skip the center hole; fill with jam using a piping bag after frying.

2. Cream-Filled Donuts – Inject vanilla pastry cream or whipped cream.

3. Coconut Donuts – Top with vanilla glaze and sprinkle shredded coconut.

4. Maple-Glazed Donuts – Mix maple syrup with powdered sugar for the glaze.

5. Baked Yeast Donuts – Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 10–12 minutes; brush lightly with butter.

6. Whole-Wheat Donuts – Substitute half of the flour with whole wheat for added fiber.

💡 Tips for Perfect Yeast Donuts

· Use fresh yeast for best rise and texture.

· Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying — oil temperature drops quickly.

· Use a thermometer to maintain consistent frying temperature.

· Let donuts rest before glazing to avoid melting the topping.

· For softer texture, knead dough well and don’t add too much flour.

🌿 Health Benefits (When Enjoyed in Moderation!)

· Yeast fermentation improves digestion and adds beneficial B-vitamins.

· Whole-grain variations increase fiber and nutrients.

· Homemade donuts let you control sugar, oil type, and portion size.

· Cinnamon and dark chocolate toppings add antioxidants.

· Baked versions drastically reduce fat content versus deep frying.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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Donuts

Balasahana Suresh

05/11/2025 02:32 PM