How do you make mini donuts?

Making Mini Donuts: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients:

* 1 cup milk (warm)

* 1/4 cup granulated sugar

* 1 teaspoon active dry yeast

* 1 teaspoon salt

* 1 egg

* 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)

* 1/4 cup melted butter (plus more for greasing)

* Optional: 1/4 cup vanilla extract

Equipment:

* Mini donut maker

* Measuring cups and spoons

* Mixing bowls

* Whisk

* Spatula

Instructions:

1. Prepare the yeast mixture: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

2. Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the yeast mixture, salt, egg, and melted butter.

3. Add dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a spatula until a soft dough forms.

4. Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

5. Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

6. Preheat the donut maker: Plug in the mini donut maker and preheat according to the manufacturer's instructions.

7. Shape the donuts: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it slightly.

8. Cook the donuts: Carefully place the flattened dough balls into the preheated donut maker. Close the lid and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown.

9. Remove and cool: Once cooked, remove the donuts from the donut maker and let them cool on a wire rack.

10. Glaze or decorate: While still warm, glaze the donuts with your favorite glaze, or dust them with powdered sugar. You can also get creative with sprinkles, chocolate chips, or other toppings.

Tips for success:

* Use warm milk, not hot. The yeast will die if the milk is too hot.

* Don't over-knead the dough. Over-kneading will make the donuts tough.

* Let the dough rise properly. This will give the donuts their light and fluffy texture.

* Use a good quality donut maker. A good donut maker will ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

* Be careful not to overcrowd the donut maker. This can prevent the donuts from cooking evenly.

Enjoy your delicious mini donuts!