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Homemade Doughnuts

Create fluffy, homemade doughnuts that are light and airy, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 32 pieces
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the dough
  • 3/4 cup water, lukewarm (about 105 degrees F) Crucial for the yeast to activate.
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar Adds sweetness and feeds the yeast.
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast Use a reliable brand like Red Star.
  • 1/2 cup whole milk, room temperature Dairy-free alternatives: almond or oat milk.
  • 1 large egg, room temperature Binds the dough.
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour High-quality brands recommended: King Arthur or Bob's Red Mill.
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt Enhances flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened Use high-fat butter for a more tender dough.
  • Vegetable oil, for frying Use a neutral oil that can withstand high temperatures.
  • Confectioners sugar, for dusting The sweet finish to your doughnuts.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the lukewarm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add room temperature milk and egg to the yeast mixture. Whisk until fully combined and set aside.
  3. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine flour and salt. With the mixer on low, add the yeast mixture and softened butter. Mix until just combined.
  4. Increase the mixer speed to medium and knead for 2 to 3 minutes until the dough is smooth and pulls away from the bowl.
  5. Transfer the dough to a large bowl coated with non-stick cooking spray, cover with a kitchen towel, and let rise until doubled in size, about 1 to 2 hours.
  6. Once risen, roll out the dough to a rectangle about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Cut into 32 squares.
Cooking
  1. Heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat until it reaches 360 degrees F.
  2. Working in batches, add 4 to 6 squares of dough into the hot oil and fry for about 30 seconds to 1 minute per side until golden brown.
  3. Place fried beignets on a paper towel-lined baking sheet to absorb excess oil, and dust generously with confectioners sugar.
Alternative Methods
  1. For baking, line baking sheets with parchment paper, allow to rise for 45 minutes, preheat oven to 350 degrees F, brush with milk, and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, dust with sugar before serving.
  2. For air frying, preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees F, cook for 2 to 3 minutes, and dust with sugar before serving.

Notes

Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can freeze for up to 2 months.