My Go-To Yeast Donut Recipe: Glazed Perfection!

Instructions:

1. Combine warm milk, yeast, and a teaspoon of sugar. Let stand until foamy (5-10 minutes).
2. In a large bowl or stand mixer, whisk together the remaining sugar, salt, eggs, and melted butter.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the wet ingredients. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface or in a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (approximately 1-1.5 hours).
6. Gently punch down the dough to release air. Roll out the dough to 1/2-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface.
7. Use a donut cutter or cookie cutters to cut out donut shapes. Place donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Cover the donuts loosely and let rise again until puffy (30-45 minutes).
9. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
10. Carefully lower donuts into the hot oil, frying for 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown.
11. Remove donuts from the oil and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
12. Whisk together the confectioners' sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Warm slightly, if desired, for a smoother glaze.
13. Dip warm donuts into the glaze, allowing excess to drip off. Place glazed donuts back on the wire rack to set.
14. Serve immediately and prepare for compliments!