Homemade Donuts Recipe: Soft, Fluffy, and Irresistibly Delicious!

Homemade Donuts Recipe: Soft, Fluffy, and Irresistibly Delicious! 🍩✨

Donuts are the ultimate comfort food—soft, golden, and customizable with your favorite toppings. This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to making perfect donuts from scratch. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, you’ll love the rewarding process and delectable results.

Ingredients

• 500 g all-purpose flour
• 7 g dehydrated yeast (or fresh yeast)
• 170 ml warm milk
• 60 g granulated sugar
• 60 ml water at room temperature
• 50 g softened butter
• 2 eggs
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 3 pinches of salt

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, combine 100 g of the flour with the yeast and 1 teaspoon of sugar.
2. Add 100 g of the warm milk and stir until well combined.
3. Cover and let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes foamy.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining sugar, salt, and remaining milk.
2. Add the softened butter, eggs, and lemon zest, mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the yeast mixture to the wet ingredients.
2. Slowly incorporate the remaining flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 4: First Proofing

1. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Donuts

1. Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness.
2. Cut out donut shapes using a donut cutter or two round cutters (one large and one small for the hole).
3. Place the shaped donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let them rise for 30 minutes, or until slightly puffy.

Step 6: Fry the Donuts

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry the donuts in small batches for 1–2 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
3. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Tips for Perfect Donuts

1. Proper Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain 350°F (175°C). Oil that’s too hot will burn the outside, while oil that’s too cool will result in greasy donuts.
2. Consistent Thickness: Roll the dough evenly to ensure all donuts cook at the same rate.
3. Fluffy Texture: Allow sufficient time for the dough to rise for soft and airy donuts.

FAQs: Common Questions About Donuts

Q: Can I bake the donuts instead of frying them?
A: Yes! Place the donuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–12 minutes, or until lightly golden.

Q: How do I store leftover donuts?
A: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave for a fresh taste.

Q: Can I freeze the dough?
A: Yes, you can freeze the shaped donuts before the second proofing. Thaw, let them rise, and fry when ready.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

1. Overproofing: Avoid letting the dough rise for too long, as it can collapse during frying.
2. Uneven Frying: Don’t overcrowd the fryer—fry a few donuts at a time to ensure even cooking.
3. Greasy Donuts: Drain on paper towels immediately after frying to remove excess oil.

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