🧑🍳 Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Make the Dough:
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, and vanilla.
- Knead by hand or mixer for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
3. Shape the Doughnuts:
- Roll dough out on a floured surface to about ½ inch thickness.
- Cut using a doughnut cutter or two round cutters (about 3” and 1”).
- Place on parchment paper and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
4. Fry the Doughnuts:
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry doughnuts a few at a time until golden (about 1 minute per side).
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
5. Glaze (optional but amazing!):
- Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Dip warm doughnuts into glaze and let set on a rack.
💡 Tips:
- For extra softness, use half milk and half buttermilk.
- You can coat them in cinnamon sugar or fill with jam, Nutella, or custard!
Would you like a baked version or stuffed doughnut variation next?