Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Donut Dough
- In a small bowl, activate 1 packet of active dry yeast in 3/4 cup of warm milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This ensures the yeast is activated and ready to make the dough rise.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Mix the dry ingredients well to evenly distribute the sugar and salt.
- Once the yeast is ready, add the yeast mixture, 1/4 cup softened unsalted butter, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract into the dry ingredients. Stir the mixture until it starts to come together into a dough.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This helps develop the gluten, giving your donuts that tender, soft texture.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size. The warm environment helps the dough rise and become airy.
2️⃣ Shape and Fry the Donuts
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air, and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch thick.
- Use a round cutter to cut out the donuts, and use a smaller round cutter (or a bottle cap) to cut out the center of each donut to form the hole. Re-roll the leftover dough to cut more donuts.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to fully submerge the donuts. To check if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of dough into the oil—if it sizzles and floats to the surface, it’s ready for frying.
- Carefully drop the donuts into the hot oil and fry them for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to flip the donuts halfway through and remove them once they are golden and crispy.
- Transfer the fried donuts to a wire rack or paper towels to drain any excess oil and cool slightly before filling.
3️⃣ Prepare the Fillings
- For the chocolate filling, melt 1 cup of dark or milk chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl over a double boiler or in the microwave. Stir until smooth and allow it to cool slightly before using.
- For the caramel filling, simply warm 1/2 cup of caramel sauce until it becomes pourable and smooth.
- If using fruit filling, choose your favorite jam (raspberry, strawberry, or blueberry work wonderfully) and warm it slightly in a small saucepan until it becomes smooth and spreadable.
4️⃣ Glaze the Donuts
- Dip each donut in one of the following glazes for a glossy finish:
- For chocolate glaze: Dip the donuts in melted dark chocolate (or milk chocolate) until the top is fully covered. Let any excess drip off before setting the donuts aside.
- For white chocolate glaze: Repeat the process with melted white chocolate for a rich and creamy glaze.
- For caramel glaze: Drizzle the warm caramel sauce over the top of the donuts for a sweet, sticky finish.
- Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes, or for a more polished look, let the donuts sit for about 10-15 minutes to fully set before serving.
5️⃣ Fill the Donuts
- Once the donuts have cooled slightly and the glaze has set, it’s time to fill them with your delicious filling. Use a piping bag fitted with a long nozzle or a small spoon to carefully fill each donut with the chocolate, caramel, or fruit filling of your choice.
- For extra indulgence, you can drizzle a little more filling on top of the donuts for a layered effect or garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a refined finish.
✨ Serve and Enjoy
- Serve your freshly made donuts warm, with a cup of coffee or milk for the perfect pairing. These donuts are perfect for breakfast, a sweet snack, or a dessert after a special meal.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze them for up to a month. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or oven for a few seconds.
These donuts are a decadent, comforting treat that brings joy in every bite. Whether you choose to fill them with rich chocolate, gooey caramel, or fruity jam, they’re sure to become your new favorite indulgence. Enjoy the sweet moments, one donut at a time!
