🍩 Homemade Soft & Fluffy Donuts

Ingredients
4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour
2¼ teaspoons (7 g) active dry yeast
½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
1 cup (240 ml) warm milk
1 large egg
4 tablespoons (55 g) unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
Vegetable oil, for frying
Granulated sugar or powdered sugar, for coating
Method
Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of the sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes, until foamy.
Make the dough: Add the remaining sugar, egg, melted or softened butter, vanilla, and salt. Mix well. Gradually add the flour and mix until a soft dough forms.
Knead: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Avoid adding too much flour—the dough should remain soft.
First rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
Shape the donuts: Roll the dough out to about ½ inch (1.2 cm) thick. Cut out donut shapes using a donut cutter or two round cutters.
Second rise: Place the donuts on a lightly floured or parchment-lined tray. Cover loosely and let them rise for 30–45 minutes, until puffy.
Fry: Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the donuts in batches for about 1–2 minutes per side, until beautifully golden brown.
Drain: Remove the donuts and place them on a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain excess oil.
Finish: While still slightly warm, toss them in granulated sugar, dust with powdered sugar, or glaze them with your favorite donut glaze.
Enjoy your homemade donuts—soft, fluffy, golden, and irresistible! 🍩🤤