Doughnuts

Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)

# Instructions:
1. Proof the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk (about 105°F to 115°F) and yeast. Stir to dissolve, then let sit for 5-10 minutes, or until frothy.
2. Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add eggs and yeast mixture: Add the eggs, yeast mixture, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until a smooth batter forms.
4. Knead the dough: Using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment or a wooden spoon, knead the dough for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Punch down the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles.
7. Cut out the doughnuts: Use a doughnut cutter or a glass to cut out the doughnuts. You should be able to get about 6-8 doughnuts.
8. Fry the doughnuts: Heat about 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) of oil (such as vegetable or peanut oil) in a deep frying pan to 350°F (180°C). Fry the doughnuts for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
9. Drain and dust: Place the fried doughnuts on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).

# Variations:
– Glazed doughnuts: Dip the cooled doughnuts in a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
– Filled doughnuts: Fill the doughnuts with a sweet filling, such as jam or custard.
– Cinnamon sugar doughnuts: Toss the fried doughnuts in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon.