Homemade Glazed Doughnuts

Description:

Soft, fluffy, and perfectly sweet, these Homemade Glazed Doughnuts are a bakery-quality treat you can make at home. Lightly fried and dipped in a glossy vanilla glaze, they melt in your mouth with every bite. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a special occasion, these doughnuts are surprisingly simple to prepare and will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas.

Origin:

Doughnuts have been a beloved treat for centuries, with origins tracing back to Dutch settlers in America who made “olykoeks” or “oil cakes.” Over time, doughnuts evolved into the iconic ring-shaped pastries we know today, often glazed, powdered, or filled with sweet creams.

Ingredients:

For the Doughnuts:

• 3 1/2 cups (440g) all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for flavor)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, warmed (about 110°F/45°C)
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water, warmed (about 110°F/45°C)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Glaze:

• 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Make the Dough:

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, water, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and nutmeg.
3. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, and softened butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-6 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Shape the Doughnuts:

6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch (1.3cm) thickness.
7. Use a doughnut cutter or two round cutters (one large, one small) to cut out the doughnuts and holes.
8. Place the cut doughnuts and holes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with a cloth and let them rise for another 30-40 minutes, until puffy.

Fry the Doughnuts:

9. Heat vegetable oil in a large, deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
10. Fry the doughnuts in batches, about 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Make the Glaze:

11. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Glaze the Doughnuts:

12. While the doughnuts are still slightly warm, dip each one into the glaze, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Place the glazed doughnuts on a wire rack to allow the excess glaze to drip off.

Tips for Success:

• For best results, use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature. Too hot and the doughnuts may burn; too cool and they’ll absorb excess oil.
• Be gentle when handling the dough after it rises to preserve its fluffiness.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the glaze for a flavor twist.

Recommendations:

• Serve immediately for the freshest taste.
• Pair with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or milk for a classic combination.
• Store unglazed doughnuts in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reheat before glazing.

Nutrition (per doughnut, approximate for 12 doughnuts):

• Calories: ~250
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Sugar: 16g
• Sodium: 100mg

These Homemade Glazed Doughnuts are a delightful treat, perfect for making any day feel extra special. ✨