Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 4 cups
- Instant yeast: 2 1/4 teaspoons
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Whole milk: 1 cup, lukewarm
- Large eggs: 4
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), softened
- Vegetable oil: for frying
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add lukewarm milk and eggs. Mix on low speed until a shaggy dough forms.
- Step 2: Add softened butter, a few tablespoons at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated. Increase the mixer speed to medium and knead for 8-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Step 3: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Step 4: Gently punch down the dough to release air. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll to 1/2-inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters (one large and one small) to cut out donuts.
- Step 5: Place donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Step 6: Heat vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry donuts, 2-3 at a time, for 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove donuts with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack to drain excess oil. Let cool slightly and glaze or dust with powdered sugar, if desired.
Notes
- Store cooled, unglazed donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days; they're best enjoyed fresh.
- To revive day-old donuts, warm them briefly in a low oven (around 300°F) for a minute or two to restore some of their soft texture.
- Serve these brioche donuts warm with a variety of toppings like homemade glazes, sprinkles, or even whipped cream and fresh berries for a decadent treat.
- For an extra rich flavor, consider browning the butter before adding it to the dough, letting it cool slightly first.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American