Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water (105-115°F/40-46°C)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, warmed slightly
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 3 1/4 cups (400g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter, softened
- Vegetable oil, for frying (about 6-8 cups/1.4-1.9 liters)
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast: Combine warm water and yeast in a bowl. Let stand until foamy.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl (or stand mixer bowl), whisk together warm milk, sugar, vanilla, salt, and eggs.
- Add Yeast Mixture: Pour the yeast mixture into the wet ingredients and mix well.
- Incorporate Flour: Gradually add the flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead in Butter: Add the softened butter and knead until a smooth, elastic dough forms (about 5-7 minutes in a stand mixer, or 8-10 minutes by hand).
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size.
- Punch Down and Roll Out: Gently punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll out to about 1/2-inch (1.25cm) thickness.
- Cut Doughnuts: Use a doughnut cutter (or two round cutters) to cut out doughnuts and doughnut holes.
- Second Rise: Place the cut doughnuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
- Heat Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry Doughnuts: Carefully lower doughnuts into the hot oil, frying for 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Drain and Cool: Remove doughnuts with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack to drain and cool slightly.
- Make the Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Glaze Doughnuts: Dip warm doughnuts into the glaze, coating them evenly. Place back on the wire rack to allow the glaze to set.
- Serve and Enjoy: Eat while fresh. Dunk in tea for that proper british taste!