Copycat Krispy Kreme Glazed Donuts

Steps

1. 1

   In a large bowl, combine 1.5 cups warm milk (no more than 110°F (43 °C)), 2.25 teaspoons active dry yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir slightly and let sit for 5 to 10 minutes until a layer of foam forms on top.

   Start 10-minute timer
2. 2

   Add 0.5 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, and 2 room temperature eggs to the yeast mixture. Whisk thoroughly to break the eggs.

3. 3

   Add 6 tablespoons of super softened butter-flavored shortening (Crisco). Mix vigorously for about 30 seconds to emulsify the shortening into the liquid.

   Start 30-second timer
4. 4

   Add half of the flour (about 2.25 cups) and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Mix slightly to incorporate.

5. 5

   Add the remaining flour and mix until a dough forms.

6. 6

   Turn the dough out onto a clean surface and knead for at least 3 minutes. If the dough is extremely messy and won't come together after 3 minutes, add a tiny bit more flour, but keep it tacky. It should stick to your hands but not fully commit to them.

   Start 3-minute timer
7. 7

   Place the dough in an oiled bowl and cover with plastic wrap or a towel. Let it rise on the counter for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.

   Start 2-hour timer
8. 8

   Gently press down in the center of the risen dough to deflate. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.

9. 9

   Roll the dough out to a thickness of about 0.5 inch.

10. 10

    Cut out donuts using a circle cookie cutter or glass. Use a smaller tip (like a Wilton 8B) to cut out the centers for donut holes.

11. 11

    Transfer each donut onto an individual square of parchment paper. Cover and let rise for another 30 to 40 minutes until they are poofy and jiggly.

    Start 40-minute timer
12. 12

    While the donuts rise, prepare the glaze by mixing 4 cups powdered sugar, 4-6 tablespoons milk, a pinch of salt, a splash of vanilla, and 2 tablespoons light corn syrup until smooth.

13. 13

    Heat frying oil in a deep pot to 350°F (180 °C) (175°C (350 °F)).

14. 14

    Carefully drop the donuts into the hot oil (you can drop them in with the parchment paper and pull the paper out with tongs after a few seconds).

15. 15

    Fry for about 1 minute on each side until golden brown. Remove and place on a wire rack set over a cookie sheet or a paper towel-lined plate.

    Start 1-minute timer
16. 16

    While still warm, dip each donut into the glaze, pressing down slightly. Lift straight up and place back on the rack to set.