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The aroma of freshly fried doughnuts wafting through your kitchen is a delightful experience that many of us crave. Homemade yeast doughnuts have surged in popularity, serving as a testament to the joy of creating something delicious from scratch. There’s something uniquely satisfying about crafting your own doughnuts, from the initial mixing of ingredients to the moment of pulling warm, fluffy rings from the fryer. They are not just a treat; they are a labor of love that can elevate any breakfast or brunch occasion.

Perfect Yeast Doughnuts every single time!

Discover the joy of making perfect yeast doughnuts with this foolproof guide! Learn everything from activating yeast to achieving the ideal dough consistency, along with tips for frying and glazing. Impress your family and friends with warm, fluffy doughnuts that are a labor of love. Experiment with various toppings to create your signature treats. It's time to roll up your sleeves and dive into this sweet adventure! #Doughnuts #Baking #Homemade #SweetTreats #YeastDoughnuts #CookingTips
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Ingredients
  

2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)

½ cup warm milk (110°F or 43°C)

¼ cup granulated sugar, divided

1 large egg, room temperature

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

¾ teaspoon salt

2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for rolling

Vegetable oil, for frying

Optional toppings: powdered sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon sugar, or chocolate glaze

Instructions
 

Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until frothy.

    Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, melted butter, remaining sugar, and vanilla extract. Add the yeast mixture once it's frothy.

      Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add it to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough begins to form.

        Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.

          First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

            Shape Doughnuts: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll the dough out to about ½ inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter (or two round cookie cutters of different sizes) to cut out doughnut shapes and holes. Gather and re-roll any scraps.

              Second Rise: Place the cut doughnuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover them with a cloth, and let them rise again for about 30-40 minutes until they've puffed up.

                Fry Doughnuts: While the doughnuts are rising, heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the doughnuts into the hot oil, a few at a time, frying for about 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

                  Glaze or Dust: Once slightly cooled, toss them in powdered sugar, granulated sugar, or cinnamon sugar, or dip them in chocolate glaze for an extra treat.

                    Serve and Enjoy: Best enjoyed fresh! Serve warm and watch your loved ones delight in these delicious treats.

                      Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes | Servings: 12 doughnuts