Delicious Glazed Donuts

Step 1: Mixing the Dough

1. Combine Dry Ingredients:

   • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, caster sugar, yeast, and salt. This helps evenly distribute the yeast and sugar, which are crucial for the dough's rise and flavor.

2. Add Wet Ingredients:

   • Gradually pour in the warm water, beaten eggs, and vanilla extract. Mixing with your hands helps you gauge the dough's texture. Aim for a shaggy mixture initially.

3. Rest Period:

   • Cover the bowl with a damp tea towel. This keeps the dough moist and helps the yeast activate.

Step 2: Kneading

1. Kneading Techniques:

   • On a floured surface, knead the dough for 10-15 minutes. If using a stand mixer, knead for 5-8 minutes on low speed. Proper kneading develops gluten, making the dough elastic.

2. Incorporate Butter:

   • Add softened butter gradually during kneading. It may seem challenging at first, but keep kneading until fully integrated. This step adds richness and helps create a soft texture.

3. First Rise:

   • Shape the dough into a ball and place it in an oiled bowl (this prevents sticking). Cover it again and let it rise in a warm place (like an oven turned off with the light on) for 2-3 hours, or until it has nearly doubled in size.

Step 3: Shaping the Doughnuts

1. Rolling Out:

   • Once risen, turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Roll it out to a thickness of about 2cm. This ensures even cooking and a fluffy texture.

2. Cutting Shapes:

   • Use a 9cm cutter for the outer ring and a 4cm cutter for the center. This will create the classic doughnut shape.

3. Second Rise:

   • Place the cut doughnuts on the lined baking tray. Cover them with a tea towel and allow them to rise again for 2-3 hours. This second rise is crucial for light, airy doughnuts. If you chill them overnight, it enhances the flavor even more.

Step 4: Frying the Doughnuts

1. Preparing the Oil:

   • Fill your deep-fat fryer or heavy-based pan with sunflower oil, ensuring it’s no more than a third full to avoid overflow. Heat the oil to 170°C (check with a thermometer or by dropping in a small piece of bread).

2. Frying Process:

   • Carefully lower 2-3 doughnuts into the hot oil using a floured spatula. Fry them for 2 minutes on each side until they are golden and puffed. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.

3. Cooling:

   • Once fried, place the doughnuts on kitchen paper to absorb excess oil. Repeat with the remaining doughnuts.

Step 5: Glazing the Doughnuts

1. Making the Glaze:

   • In a bowl, sift the icing sugar and mix with 2 tablespoons of water. Stir until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if necessary; it should be runny but thick enough to coat.

2. Glazing Technique:

   • Dip the smoother side of each cooled doughnut into the glaze, letting any excess drip off. For an extra touch, consider sprinkling some chopped nuts or coconut on top of the glaze.

3. Serving:

   • Serve the glazed doughnuts immediately for the best texture. They can be stored in an airtight container for up to one day, but they are best enjoyed fresh.

Additional Tips:

• Flavor Variations:
  Experiment with adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for additional flavor. You can also flavor the glaze with extracts like almond or orange.

• Toppings:
  Consider topping the glazed doughnuts with chocolate, sprinkles, or flavored glazes for variety.

• Storage:
  If you have leftover doughnuts, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigerating as this can make them stale faster.

• Deep-Frying Safety:
  Always monitor the temperature of the oil and be cautious when working with hot oil to avoid burns or splatters.

Enjoy your homemade glazed doughnuts, and feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further assistance!