Fluffy Doughnuts for Beginners

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Introduction:
Discover the joy of making homemade doughnuts with this beginner-friendly recipe. These fluffy, golden doughnuts are soft on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside, making them a perfect treat for breakfast, dessert, or any time in between. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll be enjoying delicious doughnuts in no time.

Ingredients Quantities:

  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 cup warm milk (110°F or 45°C)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Optional Additions:

  • Powdered sugar, for dusting
  • Granulated sugar mixed with cinnamon, for coating
  • Glaze or icing, for dipping

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast:

  • In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

2. Prepare the Dough:

  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
  • Add the frothy yeast mixture to the bowl and stir to combine.
  • Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.

3. Knead the Dough:

  • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.

4. First Rise:

  • Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

5. Shape the Doughnuts:

  • Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
  • Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness.
  • Use a doughnut cutter or two round cutters (one larger for the outer circle and one smaller for the hole) to cut out the doughnuts and holes.

6. Second Rise:

  • Place the cut doughnuts and holes on a lightly floured baking sheet, cover with a kitchen towel, and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffed up.

7. Heat the Oil:

  • In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).

8. Fry the Doughnuts:

  • Carefully place a few doughnuts at a time into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot.
  • Fry for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
  • Use a slotted spoon to remove the doughnuts and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

9. Optional Coatings:

  • While the doughnuts are still warm, dust them with powdered sugar or roll them in granulated sugar mixed with cinnamon.
  • Alternatively, dip the cooled doughnuts in your favorite glaze or icing.

Tips for Success:

  • Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast.
  • The dough should be soft and slightly sticky; avoid adding too much flour during kneading.
  • Allow the doughnuts to rise in a warm, draft-free area to ensure proper puffing.
  • Use a kitchen thermometer to maintain the oil temperature for even frying.

Nutritional Estimate:
(Per Serving, based on 12 servings)

  • Calories: 250
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Carbohydrates: 31g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 8g
  • Protein: 5g

Recommendation:
Fluffy doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain some of their original fluffiness. Serve with a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk for a delightful treat any time of day!

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