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These homemade donuts are soft and full of flavor. They've been my family's go-to comfort treat on lazy Sunday mornings for years. You can't mess up this super straightforward mix, and the result is donuts that are crispy outside and fluffy in the middle.
I first made these with my grandma whenever we visited her. The donut smell while they fry just takes me straight back to her cozy, welcoming kitchen. Feels like a big warm hug every time.
Tasty Ingredients
- 2 fresh eggs: let them warm up to room temp so they blend better
- 1 cup white sugar: adds just the right sweetness
- 1 cup whole milk: keeps donuts rich and soft
- 3 tablespoons melted butter: brings flavor and smoothness
- 4 cups sifted cake flour: makes ‘em extra light
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: gives you that classic donut flavor
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: perks up all the tastes
- Enough shortening for frying: makes them get a perfect color
Easy Step-by-Step
- Golden Frying:
- Heat your shortening up to about 180°C in a deep pan. Drop in the donuts gently—don't crowd the pan. Let them fry for 4 or 5 minutes per side till they’re golden. Pull them out onto some paper towels so they drain.
- Shaping the Donuts:
- Roll the dough out to about half an inch thick on a just-floured counter. Cut out donuts with a cutter. Twist it a little as you press down for clean edges, then lay on parchment to wait their turn.
- Mixing in the Dry Stuff:
- Add the sifted flour in four goes, mixing each time. Throw in nutmeg and vanilla. Stir till you get a smooth, stretchy dough, but don’t overmix or your donuts get tough.
- Getting the Base Ready:
- Whip eggs and sugar together in a big bowl hard till pale and thick—should even fluff up. Pour in the warm milk and cooled melted butter. Mix it up gently till it’s all even.
My kid loves punching out donut shapes in the dough. It's honestly turned into our rainy Sunday thing. Making these together is something we'll always remember.
Storing and Keeping Fresh
To keep your donuts tasting awesome, stash them in an airtight box. Pop a paper towel between layers. They'll be good for about three days out on the counter. If you want to warm them back up, toss them in a 150°C oven for a few seconds—they crisp up just right.
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Yummy Twists
Feel free to change these up however you like. Roll them in cinnamon sugar once they're hot or whip up a quick glaze with powdered sugar and a splash of milk. Want to get fancy? Mix in some orange or lemon zest to the dough, or add colored sugar on top for special days.
Perfect Pair-Ups
Serve these with a big mug of strong coffee or thick hot chocolate for total comfort. They’re awesome next to homemade applesauce or caramel sauce when you want dessert. Trying to make brunch extra nice? Put out fresh fruit and some whipped cream on the side.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I get light and fluffy donuts?
Whisk the eggs with sugar thoroughly and gradually fold in the flour so you don't overwork the dough.
- → Can I use a different oil for frying?
Sure, vegetable oils like canola or sunflower work perfectly instead of shortening.
- → What’s the best way to keep homemade donuts fresh?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Skip the fridge.
- → Can I add more flavors?
Definitely! Add citrus zest or spices like cinnamon to tweak the taste.
- → How do I shape the donuts?
Use a round cutter with a smaller circle for the center, or improvise with a glass and bottle cap.