Homemade Vanilla Donuts
These Homemade Vanilla Donuts are deep-fried to golden perfection, filled with a luscious vanilla cream, and coated in a light dusting of sugar. A classic and indulgent treat!
Equipment
- Deep fryer Alternatively, use a heavy-bottomed pan for frying.
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Stand mixer with dough hook attachment
- Slotted spoon for removing donuts
- Cooling rack
- Piping bag for filling the donuts
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 2.5 tsp instant yeast
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 0.75 cup whole milk warmed
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 cups vegetable oil for frying
- 1 cup vanilla pastry cream for filling
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
- In a separate bowl, combine warm milk, eggs, butter, and vanilla extract.
- Using a stand mixer with a dough hook, gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Knead for about 5 minutes until a smooth dough forms.
- Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness and cut into rounds using a donut cutter or glass.
- In a deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the donuts into the hot oil and fry for about 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to a cooling rack.
- Once cooled, use a piping bag filled with vanilla pastry cream to inject filling into each donut.
Notes
- Optional Equipment: A thermometer helps maintain the correct frying temperature.
- Customization: Coat donuts in powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze.
- Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Serving Tip: Serve warm with a dusting of cinnamon sugar.