Homemade Donuts

Method

1. 1
   Add the dough ingredients (yeast, milk, melted butter, sugar, and bread flour) in the order listed and mix well until combined.
2. 2
   Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5–10 minutes (longer kneading yields fluffier donuts).
3. 3
   Place the dough in a clean bowl, cover, and let it rest for 1 hour to rise.
4. 4
   Once risen, punch down the dough to deflate. Roll it out into a rectangle about 45–50 cm wide. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to keep the sides straight; you can trim the edges for sharp lines (save the trimmed dough to test the oil).
5. 5
   Using a pizza cutter or knife, slice the dough into 4 rows lengthwise and 5 rows widthwise to create 20 pieces.
6. 6
   Place each piece on a square of greaseproof paper, cover with a tea towel, and let rest for 30 minutes.
7. 7
   While the dough rests, heat the oil in a deep frying pan. Test readiness by inserting a wooden spoon: it should bubble immediately, and a small piece of dough should rise quickly to the top.
8. 8
   Add 3–4 donuts to the oil (using tongs to remove the paper). Fry until golden on one side, then flip and cook the other side.
9. 9
   Remove the donuts and toss them in a bowl of sugar (plain or mixed with cinnamon). Enjoy!