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Amish Donuts Recipe
Isabella

Amish Donut Recipe

5 from 1 vote
Soft, fluffy, and lightly glazed, these homemade Amish donuts are a delightful treat. Made with simple ingredients and a touch of tradition, they bring the comforting taste of classic, old-fashioned baking into your home.
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Prep Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 12 donuts
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American, Amish, Amish Traditional
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Dough:
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast 1 packet
  • 1 cup whole milk warmed
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter melted
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • For Frying:
  • 4 cups vegetable oil or canola oil
  • For the Glaze:
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup whole milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups/spoons
  • Stand mixer (optional)
  • Rolling Pin
  • Donut cutter (or two round cutters)
  • Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
  • Slotted spoon
  • Cooling rack
  • Small saucepan (for glaze)

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
  2. Warm the milk to about 100°F (38°C) and stir in a teaspoon of sugar and the active dry yeast.
  3. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
  4. Step 2: Make the Dough
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
  6. Add in the melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and the activated yeast mixture.
  7. Mix until a sticky dough forms, then knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth.
  8. Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
  9. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  10. Step 4: Shape the Donuts
  11. Roll out the dough to about ½-inch thickness on a floured surface.
  12. Use a donut cutter to cut out rings and set them aside for a second rise (15 minutes).
  13. Step 5: Fry the Donuts
  14. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
  15. Fry donuts in small batches for about 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
  16. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined cooling rack.
  17. Step 6: Make the Glaze & Coat the Donuts
  18. Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
  19. Dip the warm donuts into the glaze, allowing excess to drip off.
  20. Place on a rack and let the glaze set before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
Ensure the oil stays at a steady temperature for even frying.
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze for longer freshness.
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