Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, divided, plus more for dusting
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast (1 packet = 7 grams)
- 2/3 cup warm milk (110˚F – microwave 35 sec.)
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted, divided
- 2 egg yolks
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup jelly or jam (no large fruit pieces)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar to roll donuts
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup flour, 1/4 cup sugar, 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast, and 1/4 tsp salt.
- Add warm milk, 3 Tbsp melted butter, 2 egg yolks, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, and whisk vigorously to combine well.
- Cover with plastic wrap and rest at room temperature for 10 minutes until bubbles form on the surface.
- Add the remaining 1 1/2 cups flour, adding just enough until the dough holds together and no longer sticks to the sides of the bowl. Knead in the bowl for 5 minutes. If the dough is sticking to your hands, dust lightly with flour, then continue kneading with clean dry hands. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a 100˚F oven for 45 minutes or at room temperature for 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and preheat the oven to 375˚F with the rack in the center.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and roll it out to just under 1/2” thick. Cut circles using a 2 1/2-inch round cookie cutter. Re-roll scraps if needed to make 12 donuts total. Place donuts on the prepared baking sheet, cover with a tea towel, and let rise in a 100˚F oven for 20 minutes or at room temperature for 45 minutes, or until puffed.
- Bake uncovered in the center of a preheated oven at 375˚F for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden on top.
- Right out of the oven, brush a hot bun all over with the remaining 1 Tbsp melted butter and roll in a bowl of sugar to coat lightly with sugar.
- Cut a deep slit in the side of each donut and pipe jam with a pastry bag.
Tips for Variations:
- Chocolate Glaze: Drizzle melted chocolate over the donuts for a chocolatey twist.
- Sprinkle Toppings: Add colorful sprinkles or chopped nuts for extra flair.
Conclusion:
These Fluffy Baked Donuts are a testament to the joy of homemade treats. With their golden exterior, soft interior, and a burst of jam in every bite, they are a delightful indulgence. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack, these baked donuts are sure to become a family favorite. Treat yourself to the simple pleasure of freshly baked goodness!