Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
 - 2 tbsp warm water (110°F / 45°C)
 - 3/4 cup warm milk
 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
 - 1/2 tsp salt
 - 1 egg
 - 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
 - Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
 
👩🍳 Instructions:
1. Activate Yeast:
- In a small bowl, mix yeast with warm water. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
 
2. Make the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, salt, egg, and softened butter. Add yeast mixture.
 - Gradually stir in flour until dough forms. Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
 - Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
 
3. Shape the Doughnuts:
- Roll dough out on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thick.
 - Cut using a doughnut cutter (or a glass and a bottle cap for the hole).
 - Place on parchment paper and let rise again for 30 minutes.
 
4. Fry:
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry doughnuts 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown.
 - Drain on paper towels.
 
🍯 Glaze Options:
Classic Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
 - 2 tbsp milk
 - 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
(Mix until smooth and dip warm doughnuts) 
Cinnamon Sugar:
- Mix 1/2 cup sugar + 1 tbsp cinnamon
 - Roll warm doughnuts directly in the mixture
 
Chocolate Glaze:
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips + 2 tbsp butter (melt together)
 - Stir until smooth, dip, and top with sprinkles
 
🧁 Baked Doughnuts Option:
- Use the same dough, shape and place in a greased doughnut pan
 - Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes
 - Cool and glaze
 
Would you like a filled doughnut variation (like jelly or custard-filled)?