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Deliciously glazed perfect yeast doughnuts on a plate

Perfect Yeast Doughnuts

These perfect yeast doughnuts are light, fluffy, and golden brown, offering a delightful treat for any occasion. They are ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack.
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Prep Time 2 hours
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 12 doughnuts
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough
  • 3 cups All-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup Granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons Active dry yeast
  • 1 cup Warm milk (105-115°F)
  • 2 Large eggs
  • 1/4 cup Unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
Frying
  • 6-8 cups Vegetable oil (for deep frying)

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • stand mixer
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Rolling Pin
  • Doughnut cutter
  • Parchment paper
  • Baking sheets
  • Deep pot or Dutch oven
  • Thermometer
  • Slotted spoon or spider
  • Wire rack
  • Paper towels

Method
 

Making the Dough
  1. Combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl; let it bloom for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Whisk in eggs, melted butter, and salt; gradually add flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface or with a stand mixer for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Shaping and Frying
  1. Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness.
  2. Cut out doughnuts using a 3-inch doughnut cutter, gathering and re-rolling scraps as needed.
  3. Place the cut doughnuts on parchment-lined baking sheets, cover, and let rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Carefully lower 2-3 doughnuts into the hot oil, frying for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown.
  6. Remove fried doughnuts with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can glaze the cooled doughnuts with a simple powdered sugar glaze or toss them in cinnamon sugar. Ensure your oil temperature is consistent for evenly cooked doughnuts.