Now, sprinkle some flour on a clean surface and turn the dough out. Gently knead it for just a minute or two, then roll it out to about half an inch thick. If you’re like me and love a perfectly shaped donut, use a donut cutter to cut out your shapes. If you don’t have one, a large and small round cookie cutter works just as well. Be sure to gather any scraps and reroll them for more donuts!
Once your donuts are cut, heat your oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. It should be about 350°F (175°C) – a thermometer can be a great help here. Fry the donuts in batches for about one minute on each side, or until they are golden brown. I can’t describe the joy of seeing them puff and bubble as they cook! After frying, lift them out with a slotted spoon and let them cool on a wire rack.
Now for the fun part: the glaze! In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Dip your cooled donuts in the glaze and let the excess drip off. Trust me, the sight of those glossy, sweet donuts is almost as delightful as eating them!
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this recipe three ways to find the perfect frying temperature. If the oil is too hot, your donuts will burn before they’re cooked through, and if it’s too cool, they’ll absorb too much oil and become greasy. For a perfect golden color, stay around that 350°F mark.
Another tip I learned from experience is to let the donuts cool on a rack after frying. This way, they don’t get soggy; the hot air circulates around them, keeping that delightful texture intact. I also recommend glazing them right before serving if possible. That way, you get to enjoy the glaze when it’s still sticky and fresh!
Lastly, a little spice goes a long way! I love adding nutmeg to my donut dough for an unexpected flavor twist. It adds a warm, cozy aroma that makes your kitchen smell enticing. You can experiment with different spices, but start small!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake I often see when making donuts is over-kneading the dough. The dough should be mixed until just combined to keep those tender, fluffy textures. If you knead it too much, you risk ending up with dense donuts, and nobody wants that! (See the next page below to continue…)