Donut Recipe: The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion
Donuts are a delightful indulgence that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet afternoon snack, homemade donuts are a treat that everyone will love. With a rich, golden exterior and a soft, fluffy interior, these donuts will melt in your mouth. This recipe combines simple ingredients to create a delicious result that will bring a smile to your face and warmth to your kitchen.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2¼ cups |
| Sugar | ⅓ cup |
| Instant yeast | 1 packet |
| Butter, melted | 2 tbsp |
| Milk, warm | ¼ cup |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Oil for frying | As needed |
| Sugar or glaze for coating | To taste |
Allergen Information
This recipe contains the following allergens:
- Gluten: Present in all-purpose flour.
- Dairy: Present in butter and milk.
- Eggs: Present in the recipe.
For those with sensitivities, consider using dairy-free alternatives such as plant-based butter and milk, and opt for egg substitutes like flax eggs or aquafaba.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian-friendly: Yes, this recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Vegan-friendly: No, but vegan alternatives for butter, milk, and eggs can be used.
- Nut-free: Yes, this recipe does not contain nuts, but make sure to check the packaging for any cross-contamination warnings.
Procedure
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Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine 2¼ cups of all-purpose flour, ⅓ cup of sugar, and 1 packet of instant yeast. Stir the dry ingredients together to ensure they are evenly distributed. Add ¼ cup of warm milk, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, and 2 eggs into the mixture. Stir the ingredients together until a sticky dough forms.
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Knead the Dough: Once the dough starts to come together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic. If necessary, add a little extra flour to keep it from sticking, but be careful not to over-flour the dough.
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Allow the Dough to Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size. This is an important step to ensure your donuts are light and fluffy.
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Shape the Donuts: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about ½-inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out donut shapes. For the donut holes, simply use a smaller cutter or your hands to form the center hole.
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Heat the Oil: In a large pot or deep fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). You want the oil to be hot enough to fry the donuts quickly, creating a crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. To test the oil, drop a small piece of dough in. If it sizzles and rises to the top, the oil is ready.
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Fry the Donuts: Gently place the cut-out donuts into the hot oil, a few at a time. Fry them for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the donuts from the oil, and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
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Coat and Serve: While the donuts are still warm, coat them with sugar or dip them in your favorite glaze. For a simple sugar coating, roll them in granulated sugar. For a glazed version, dip them into a sweet glaze made of powdered sugar, milk, and a dash of vanilla extract.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 200 per donut (without glaze or sugar coating)
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 10g
Tips for Perfect Donuts
- Resting Time: Make sure to give the dough ample time to rise, as this is crucial for achieving light and airy donuts.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Fryer: Fry donuts in small batches. Overcrowding the pot can lower the oil temperature, leading to greasy donuts.
- Try Different Coatings: Experiment with different toppings such as cinnamon sugar, chocolate glaze, or sprinkles for a fun twist on the classic donut.
Conclusion
These homemade donuts are a perfect treat to make for a special occasion, a family gathering, or simply to enjoy with a cup of coffee. The process of making donuts from scratch is both rewarding and fun, and the end result is nothing short of delicious. With a golden, crisp exterior and soft, fluffy interior, these donuts are sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to get creative with your coatings and fillings – the possibilities are endless!
