Perfectly Mini Doughnuts

Perfectly Mini Doughnuts

Crisp outside, soft and fluffy inside – the ultimate homemade mini donut experience!

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Ingredients:

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour

• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients:

• ½ cup (120ml) whole milk

• 1 large egg

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil or canola oil (for deep frying – about 2–3 cups depending on pot size)

Optional Toppings:

• Cinnamon sugar (½ cup sugar + 1 tsp cinnamon)

• Powdered sugar

• Chocolate glaze or icing

• Sprinkles

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‍ Instructions:

1. Prepare the Batter:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

• In a separate small bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla.

• Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry, mixing gently with a spatula or spoon until just combined.
  ❗ Do not overmix! The batter should be slightly lumpy and thick like pancake batter.

2. Heat the Oil:

• Pour oil into a deep, heavy-bottomed saucepan or deep fryer. Heat to 350°F (175°C).

• Use a candy or frying thermometer to monitor the oil temperature. Keeping the oil between 350°F–360°F is key to avoid greasy or undercooked donuts.

3. Shape the Mini Doughnuts:

• Transfer the batter to a piping bag (or a resealable plastic bag with the corner snipped off).

• Carefully pipe small 1.5–2-inch circles directly into the hot oil.
  Alternative method: Use a mini donut pan to bake, or spoon small balls of batter into the oil for donut holes.

4. Fry Until Golden:

• Fry each mini donut for 1–2 minutes per side, flipping with tongs or a slotted spoon until golden brown all over.

• Do not overcrowd the pot – fry in batches for even cooking.

5. Drain and Cool:

• Use a slotted spoon to remove the donuts and place them on a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain excess oil.

6. Toss in Toppings (Optional but Recommended!):

• While still warm, toss the mini donuts in cinnamon sugar or dust with powdered sugar.

• For glazed versions, dip in chocolate glaze or vanilla icing and add sprinkles.

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Serving Suggestions:

• Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

• Pair with coffee, milk, or hot chocolate for a cozy snack.

• Serve in a paper cone or mini bakery bag for party favors or brunch displays.

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Flavor Variations:

1. Chocolate Chip Mini Donuts:
Add 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips to the batter.

2. Spiced Donuts:
Add ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients.

3. Stuffed Mini Donuts:
Pipe a small amount of jam, Nutella, or caramel into each donut after frying using a piping bag with a narrow tip.

4. Glazed Mini Donuts:
Mix 1 cup powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons milk and a splash of vanilla. Dip cooled donuts and let set on a rack.

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Storage & Reheating:

• Storage: Keep leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Warm briefly in the microwave (10–15 seconds) or toaster oven to restore softness.

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⏱ Time Breakdown:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 10–15 minutes

• Total Time: ~25 minutes

Yield: 15–20 mini doughnuts

Calories: ~70–90 per donut (depending on topping and frying)