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2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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2 tablespoons granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon instant yeast
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½ teaspoon salt
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¾ cup warm milk
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1 egg
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Vegetable oil, for frying
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Additional sugar or glaze, for coating
Preparation (Step-by-Step Instructions):
1. Make the Dough:
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In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
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Add warm milk, egg, butter, and vanilla extract.
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Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. Let It Rise:
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Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
3. Shape the Twists:
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Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
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Roll each piece into a rope (about 8 inches long) and twist each into a spiral shape—like a rope folded in half, then twisted.
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Place shaped donuts on a parchment-lined tray, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
4. Fry to Perfection:
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Heat oil in a deep pan to 340–350°F (170–175°C).
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Carefully fry donuts in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden and puffed.
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Remove and drain on paper towels.
5. Finish and Serve:
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While still warm, roll in granulated sugar or dip in your favorite glaze.
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Enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor!
Serving and Storage Tips:
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Best enjoyed fresh, while still slightly warm and crisp.
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Serve with a side of hot chocolate, coffee, or fruit compote.
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Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days—reheat briefly in the microwave or oven.
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To freeze, cool completely and wrap well. Reheat from frozen at 300°F for 10 minutes.
Variants (Fun Twists to Try):
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Cinnamon Sugar Twist: Mix sugar with cinnamon before coating.
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Filled Twists: After frying, pipe in jam, Nutella, or pastry cream.
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Lemon-Glazed: Whisk powdered sugar with lemon juice for a tangy glaze.
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Chocolate-Dipped: Dip cooled donuts in melted chocolate and top with sprinkles.
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Vegan Version: Replace milk with plant-based milk, egg with flax egg, and use vegan butter.
FAQ:
Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: Yes—but they’ll be more like soft breadsticks. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, then brush with melted butter and roll in sugar.
Q: Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant?
A: Absolutely. Just dissolve it in the warm milk with a pinch of sugar first and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
Q: How do I know the oil is at the right temperature?
A: Use a thermometer, or drop in a small piece of dough—it should sizzle and rise to the top immediately without browning too fast.
Q: My dough is sticky. What should I do?
A: Add flour one tablespoon at a time while kneading until the dough is smooth and workable—but don’t overdo it!
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes! Let it rise, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and frying.
Conclusion:
These Twisted Donuts are more than just a sweet snack—they’re a fun, hands-on baking project that delivers warm, delicious results every time. With their airy texture, golden crunch, and endless customization options, they’re guaranteed to bring smiles to any table. Whether you’re a donut newbie or a dough devotee, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again. 🍩
