Krispy Kreme Style Doughnuts

Instructions

1. 1

   Dissolve Yeast in Water

   3 min

   In a 2 1/2-quart mixing bowl, combine yeast with 1/4 cup of warm water (around 100°F/38°C). Stir gently to help the yeast dissolve completely, allowing it to activate and foam up slightly, which should take about 5 minutes.

2. 2

   Mix in Wet Ingredients

   3 min

   To the yeast mixture, add milk, sugar, salt, eggs, shortening, and 2 cups of flour. Use a mixer on low speed for about 30 seconds, ensuring to scrape down the sides of the bowl frequently to combine all ingredients evenly.

3. 3

   Beat Dough Mixture

   5 min

   Increase the mixer speed to medium and continue beating the dough for 2 minutes. Scrape the bowl occasionally to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated. Gradually stir in the remaining flour until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 2 minutes more.

4. 4

   Let Dough Rise

   40 min

   Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and set it in a warm place to rise. Allow the dough to expand until it has doubled in size, which typically takes 50-60 minutes. It is ready when a gentle poke leaves an indentation.

5. 5

   Roll Out the Dough

   5 min

   Transfer the risen dough onto a generously floured surface. Lightly coat the dough with flour and roll it out using a floured rolling pin until it reaches a thickness of 1/2 inch. Ensure the surface remains floured to prevent sticking.

6. 6

   Cut Out Doughnuts

   4 min

   Using a floured doughnut cutter, cut out shapes from the rolled dough. Carefully remove the doughnut shapes and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover them lightly and let them rise again until they double in size, about 30-40 minutes.

7. 7

   Heat Oil for Frying

   3 min

   In a deep fryer or large heavy pot, heat canola oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to check the temperature for accuracy, as this is crucial for even frying. Prepare your workspace by having a wide spatula ready for careful handling of the doughnuts.

8. 8

   Fry Doughnuts

   2 hr

   Gently slide the doughnuts into the hot oil using a wide spatula, being careful not to overcrowd the fryer. Fry the doughnuts for about 1 minute on each side until they achieve a golden brown color. Remove them carefully without puncturing their surface, and allow them to drain on paper towels.

9. 9

   Prepare Glaze

   3 min

   In a saucepan, melt butter over low heat, then remove from heat. Add in powdered sugar and vanilla, stirring until the mixture is completely smooth and free of lumps, creating a glossy glaze.

10. 10

    Glaze Doughnuts

    6 min

    Slowly incorporate boiling water, one tablespoon at a time, into the glaze until it reaches your preferred consistency - smooth but thick enough to adhere to the doughnuts. Dip each warm doughnut into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off, then place them on a cooling rack to set.