Don’t let the thought of using fresh yeast intimidate you! This straightforward recipe will guide you through making soft, fluffy doughnuts from scratch. Perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, these doughnuts are sure to impress with their delightful texture and taste. Dive into the art of doughnut making and surprise your family with a batch of homemade treats!
Servings: Makes about 12 doughnuts
Ingredients:
- All-Purpose Flour: 14 oz (400 g)
- Fresh Yeast: 0.7 oz (20 g)
- Eggs: 2 large
- Warm Milk: 6.8 fl oz (200 ml)
- Vanilla Sugar: 1 packet
- Sugar: 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
- Salt: a pinch
- Butter: 1.8 oz (50 g), melted
- Neutral Cooking Oil: for frying, approximately 1.7 cups (400 ml)
Preparation Instructions:
Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
Dissolve the fresh yeast in warm milk. Add vanilla sugar and regular sugar, then mix in 2 tablespoons of flour. Stir well and let it sit in a warm place for 10 minutes to activate.
Mix the Dough Ingredients:
In a large bowl, sift the remaining flour. Add lightly beaten eggs, the yeast mixture, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Combine thoroughly until a smooth dough forms.
First Rise:
Cover the dough with a clean towel and set it aside in a warm place to rise. Let it expand for about 1.5 hours until it doubles in size.
Shape the Doughnuts:
On a floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1 inch (2-3 cm). Use a glass or a doughnut cutter to cut out doughnut shapes.
Second Rise:
Place the cut doughnuts on a floured board and let them rise for another 10-15 minutes, allowing them to puff up.
Fry the Doughnuts:
Heat the cooking oil in a deep fryer or a large, deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the doughnuts in batches until they are golden brown on each side. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side.
Drain and Serve:
Remove the doughnuts from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm, optionally sprinkled with powdered sugar or a glaze of your choice.
These fresh yeast doughnuts are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed on their own or with your favorite toppings. Whether it’s a dusting of sugar, a chocolate glaze, or a dollop of jam, these doughnuts are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
