Fluffy Homemade Donuts

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour (2 cups)
• Baking powder (2 teaspoons)
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup)
• Milk (3/4 cup)
• Egg (1, beaten)
• Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, melted)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• Powdered sugar (1 cup (for glaze))
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
• Water (2-3 tablespoons (to adjust glaze consistency))

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar until well combined.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, beaten egg, and melted butter until smooth.
3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead for 1-2 minutes, or until smooth and slightly elastic.
5. Roll the dough out to 1/2 inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two round cookie cutters (one large and one small) to cut out donuts.
6. In a large pot or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C). Ensure there’s enough oil to fully submerge the donuts.
7. Fry the donuts in batches for 1-2 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to carefully turn them.
8. Remove the donuts from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
9. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. Add more water if needed for desired glaze consistency.
10. Dip the warm donuts into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off, and place them on a wire rack to set.
11. Serve warm for the best experience or store in an airtight container at room temperature.