Fluffy White Pillow Doughnuts: A Step-by-Step Recipe for Perfectly Soft and Airy Treats
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp instant dry yeast
- 4 tbsp margarine (softened)
- 1 large egg (optional)
- ½ tbsp vanilla extract (optional)
- ½ cup warm water
- Vegetable oil for frying
Preparation:
Create the ultimate fluffy white pillow doughnuts with this easy-to-follow recipe. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack, these doughnuts are light, airy, and irresistibly delicious. Follow these steps to achieve doughnut perfection!
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Sift 3 cups of flour and 1 tbsp of instant dry yeast into a large mixing bowl. Add ½ cup of sugar and mix thoroughly.
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add 4 tbsp of softened margarine and mix until crumbly. If using, whisk 1 large egg and ½ tbsp vanilla extract together and add to the mixture.
- Form the Dough: Gradually add ½ cup of warm water to the mixture, stirring until a soft, pliable dough forms. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 20-25 minutes until stretchy and smooth.
- First Rise: Shape the dough into a ball, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, and cover with a damp cloth. Let it rise for 40 minutes or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Doughnuts: Punch down the dough and divide it into equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and place on parchment paper to prevent sticking. Allow the doughnuts to rise again until doubled in size.
- Fry to Perfection: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough; it should float immediately. Carefully drop each doughnut into the oil using the parchment paper. Fry until golden brown, flipping halfway through. Slow frying ensures even cooking.
- Drain and Cool: Remove the doughnuts from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Let them cool completely.
- Optional Filling: For jam-filled doughnuts, use a piping bag with a round nozzle to inject jam into the center of each doughnut.
Enjoy your homemade fluffy white pillow doughnuts plain or filled with your favorite jam. These treats are sure to impress and satisfy any sweet tooth!