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### Instructions:
#### Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the **warm milk** and **granulated sugar**. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Sprinkle the **yeast** over the surface of the milk mixture and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast becomes foamy. This step is particularly important if you’re using **active dry yeast**, as it ensures the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
#### Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the **flour** and **salt**. Add the **butter**, **eggs**, and **vanilla extract** (if using), and pour in the activated yeast mixture. Stir everything together until a dough forms.
#### Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for this step. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much, as you want the dough to remain soft and pliable.
#### Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1-1.5 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky when ready.
#### Step 5: Shape the Donuts
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a **donut cutter** or two round cutters (one large and one small) to cut out the donut shapes. You can also shape the dough into donut holes if you prefer smaller bites.
#### Step 6: Fry the Donuts
Heat the **oil** in a deep fryer or large, heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the donuts into the hot oil, a few at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the donuts for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and crisp on the outside.
Use a slotted spoon to remove the donuts from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
#### Step 7: Coat in Sugar
While the donuts are still warm, toss them in **granulated sugar** to coat them completely. You can use a bowl of sugar or simply sprinkle it over the donuts for a light dusting.
#### Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once coated in sugar, your **sugar-coated yeast donuts** are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them fresh and warm with a cup of coffee, milk, or your favorite beverage. These donuts are best enjoyed on the same day they’re made, as they tend to lose their freshness over time.
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## Variations and Tips
### 1. **Cinnamon Sugar Coating**
For a classic twist on the sugar-coated donut, toss your warm donuts in a mixture of **cinnamon** and **sugar**. This combination is irresistible and adds an extra layer of flavor that many donut lovers adore.
### 2. **Filled Donuts**
If you prefer filled donuts, you can pipe in your favorite filling, such as **chocolate ganache**, **vanilla cream**, or **fruit jam**, after the donuts have been fried. Simply use a pastry bag fitted with a long nozzle and inject the filling into the center of each donut.
### 3. **Glazed Donuts**
For an even sweeter experience, top your sugar-coated yeast donuts with a simple **glaze** made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Dip the warm donuts into the glaze for a glossy finish.
### 4. **Chocolate-Coated Donuts**
For a richer, more decadent donut, dip your donuts in **melted chocolate** and let them set before serving. You can also sprinkle them with chopped nuts or sprinkles for extra flair.
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## Conclusion: The Joy of Sugar-Coated Yeast Donuts
There’s something magical about a **sugar-coated yeast donut**. Whether you’re enjoying one with a morning cup of coffee or sharing them with friends and family at a gathering, these donuts offer a satisfying combination of flavor, texture, and warmth. The crispy, golden exterior and soft, pillowy interior create the perfect balance of sweet indulgence and comfort.
With this recipe and guide, you now have all the tools to make your own batch of sugar-coated yeast donuts from scratch. From the history of the donut to the perfect technique for frying and coating, making these donuts is a rewarding process that will fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of fresh, homemade treats.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and dive into the delightful world of **sugar-coated yeast donuts**. You’ll be rewarded with a batch of donuts that are not only delicious but full of the warmth and joy that comes from baking from scratch. Happy frying!
