Imagine the warm, comforting aroma of freshly fried doughnuts wafting through your kitchen, promising a delectable treat that brings joy to your day. These classic homemade doughnuts are more than just a pastry – they’re a celebration of baking magic that transforms simple ingredients into golden, fluffy circles of pure happiness.
Ingredients
US Measurements
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 7 grams (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 5 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Metric Measurements
- 375 grams all-purpose flour
- 30 grams unsalted butter
- 7 grams active dry yeast
- 75 grams granulated sugar
- 240 ml whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 3 grams salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Activate the Yeast In a small bowl, warm the milk to approximately 110°F (43°C). Sprinkle the yeast over the warm milk and add 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy and active.
- Prepare the Dough In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture, egg, and softened butter.
- Knead the Dough Mix the ingredients until a soft dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Doughnuts Roll out the dough to 1/2 inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter or two different-sized round cutters to cut out doughnut shapes.
- Second Rise Place cut doughnuts on a baking sheet, cover, and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Frying Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry doughnuts for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Finishing Drain on paper towels and dust with powdered sugar or glaze as desired.
Nutritional Information
Per Doughnut:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 10g
- Sugar: 8g
Preparation Time: 2 hours Cooking Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes Yield: 12-15 doughnuts
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Ensure milk is warm, not hot, to activate yeast correctly
- Use a candy thermometer to maintain precise oil temperature
- Let doughnuts drain well to prevent excessive oiliness
- Use fresh yeast for best rising results
Variations and Substitutions
- Chocolate Doughnuts: Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder to the flour
- Whole Wheat Option: Replace 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour
- Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and plant-based butter
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I bake instead of fry? Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, though texture will differ slightly.
Q2: How long do homemade doughnuts last? Best consumed within 1-2 days, stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
Q3: Can I freeze doughnut dough? Yes, freeze after the first rise. Thaw and let rise again before cooking.
Q4: What oil is best for frying? Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work best due to high smoke points.
Q5: How can I prevent doughnuts from absorbing too much oil? Maintain consistent oil temperature and don’t overcrowd the frying pan.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Store at room temperature in a sealed container for 1-2 days
- Freeze unfilled doughnuts for up to 1 month
- Reheat in oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore freshness
Enjoy your homemade doughnuts – a perfect blend of comfort, tradition, and deliciousness!