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These homemade donuts are soft, full of flavor, and bring warm memories. I've been making them forever for lazy Sunday family breakfasts. They're super simple and always turn out golden outside, fluffy inside.
I first made these when my grandma showed me how. The smell while they're cooking instantly takes me back to cozy times in her kitchen when we'd visit.
Tasty Ingredients
- 2 fresh eggs: let them sit out so they're not cold, helps everything blend
- 1 liter pastry flour, sifted: makes these light and soft
- 45 ml melted butter: gives richness and classic taste
- 2.5 ml vanilla extract: boosts all the flavors
- 2.5 ml ground nutmeg: that's the secret for that classic donut flavor
- 250 ml whole milk: makes things richer and softer
- 250 ml white sugar: perfect sweetness in every bite
- Enough shortening: for frying, you'll get that awesome color
Step-by-Step Directions
- Golden Fry Time:
- Warm up your shortening in a deep pot until it's hitting about 180°C. Lay a few donuts in at a time so it's not too crowded. Let them fry 4 or 5 minutes per side, flipping once till they're golden on both sides. Drain on paper towels.
- Shaping Time:
- Roll your dough out to about 1 cm thick on a floured counter. Grab a donut cutter, press down and give it a little twist so you get clean edges. Set your donuts on parchment.
- Mix in Dry Stuff:
- Dump in the sifted flour bit by bit, about 250 ml at a time. Toss in the nutmeg and vanilla. Stir it all up until it pulls into a smooth, stretchy dough. Don’t overdo it—stop mixing once it comes together so they stay soft.
- Start the Base:
- Beat eggs with sugar in a big bowl till they're pale and kind of fluffy—almost double. Pour in the melted, cooled butter and warm milk, then gently whisk till it's all smooth.
My kid loves using the donut cutter and pushing it through the dough. It's our favorite thing to do together when it's rainy out—it turns plain mornings into little adventures.
Storing and Freshness
If you want these donuts to last, slide them in a container with some paper towel between layers so they don't get soggy. They'll be tasty for about three days at room temp. Warm them quickly in the oven at 150°C to get that crispy edge again.
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Yummy Twists
Switch things up and make them your own. Toss the donuts in cinnamon sugar when they’re warm or mix up a quick glaze with powdered sugar and a splash of milk. For party vibes, toss in some orange or lemon zest, or sprinkle on colorful sugar.
Perfect Pairings
Grab a hot coffee or rich hot chocolate—these donuts go great for breakfast. Top with apple compote or dip in caramel for dessert. Want to make it special? Set out fresh fruit and whipped cream for brunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I make light and fluffy donuts?
Mix the eggs and sugar thoroughly, then gradually fold in the flour without overmixing to keep the dough soft.
- → Can I use another oil for frying?
Sure! You can swap shortening with vegetable oils like sunflower or canola oil.
- → What's the best way to store donuts?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Avoid refrigeration.
- → Can I add extra flavors?
Definitely! Try adding zest from citrus fruits or spices like cinnamon to give a unique kick.
- → What's an easy way to shape donuts?
Use a round cutter with a smaller one for the center, or improvise with a glass and bottle cap.