Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine lukewarm milk, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and instant yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients: To the dry ingredients, add the activated yeast mixture, eggs, softened butter, and vanilla extract.
- Knead the Dough: Mix the ingredients until a soft dough forms. If using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If kneading by hand, turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Shape and Second Rise
- Punch Down the Dough: Once doubled in size, punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Shape the Donuts: Roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness. Using a donut cutter or two different-sized round cookie cutters (one large for the outer ring and one small for the center hole), cut out donut shapes. Place the cut-out donuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between them.
- Second Rise: Cover the cut-out donuts with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes until puffed up and nearly doubled in size.
Step 3: Fry the Donuts
- Heat Oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry Donuts: Carefully place a few donuts at a time into the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd the pot. Fry each side for about 1-2 minutes or until golden brown, flipping once using a slotted spoon or spider strainer.
- Drain and Cool: Remove the fried donuts from the oil and place them on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil and cool slightly.
Step 4: Glaze the Donuts (Optional)
- Prepare Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add food coloring if desired for colored glaze.
- Dip and Decorate: Dip each cooled donut into the glaze, coating both sides evenly. Place back on the wire rack to allow the glaze to set for about 10-15 minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve: Serve the homemade fried donuts fresh and warm. They are best enjoyed on the same day they are made.
Tips for Success
- Oil Temperature: Maintain a consistent oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) for perfectly fried donuts.
- Handling the Dough: Handle the dough gently to maintain its airy texture.
- Customize: Feel free to customize your donuts with different glazes, sprinkles, or fillings.
Variations
- Filled Donuts: Fill donuts with jam, pastry cream, or Nutella after frying.
- Toppings: Instead of glaze, dust donuts with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar.
Serving Suggestions
- Coffee or Tea: Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or snack.
- Ice Cream Sandwich: Make donut ice cream sandwiches with a scoop of your favorite ice cream.
Conclusion
These Homemade Fried Donuts are a treat that will delight your family and friends. With their light, fluffy texture and sweet glaze, they are sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the process of making these delicious donuts from scratch and savor the homemade goodness.