Here’s a simple recipe for fluffy doughnuts:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Oil for frying (canola or vegetable oil)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes, until foamy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Add the flour mixture to the yeast mixture, along with the butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place on a lightly floured surface.
- Heat the oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully lower the doughnuts into the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
- Remove the doughnuts from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- Dust the doughnuts with powdered sugar while still warm.
Enjoy!