Donut dough

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes

Table of Contents

Activate Yeast:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk mixture and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes foamy.

Mix Dough:
- Add the eggs, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.

Knead Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Add more flour as needed to prevent sticking.
First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Shape Donuts:
- Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness.
- Use a donut cutter or two round cutters (one large, one small) to cut out donut shapes. Re-roll the scraps and cut out additional donuts.
Second Rise:
- Place the cut-out donuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover lightly with a cloth, and let them rise until puffed, about 30 minutes.

Heat Oil:
- In a large 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, frying for about 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the donuts and place them on a paper towel-lined tray to drain excess oil.
Cool and Serve:
- Let the donuts cool slightly before glazing or coating with sugar.

Enjoy making and indulging in these classic, homemade donuts, perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat any time of day!