Vanilla Bean Doughnuts are a delightful treat, perfect for breakfast or dessert. The real star here is the vanilla bean paste, which gives a rich, aromatic flavor to these fluffy fried delights. They're surprisingly easy to make at home, and the result is well worth the effort.
The base of these doughnuts is all-purpose flour, giving them structure. Granulated sugar adds sweetness without overpowering the vanilla. Baking powder is crucial for that light, airy texture, while a touch of salt enhances all the flavors. Ground nutmeg provides a subtle warmth that pairs beautifully with the vanilla.
For the wet ingredients, whole milk contributes to the doughnuts' tender crumb. Eggs give richness and help bind everything together. The highlight, vanilla bean paste, infuses the dough with an irresistible aroma and flavor. Unsalted butter adds richness and helps with the dough's consistency.
To finish, vegetable oil is needed for frying, ensuring the doughnuts cook evenly and achieve that desirable golden-brown color. The glaze, made from confectioners' sugar, milk, and pure vanilla extract, adds a sweet, smooth finish that complements the doughnuts perfectly.
These doughnuts shine on their own, but for an extra special treat, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also pair wonderfully with a chilled glass of almond milk or a hot cup of chai tea, complementing the warm spice notes.
Start by gathering your ingredients and whisking together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg. This helps to evenly distribute the ingredients, making the doughnuts more uniform.
In another bowl, beat together the milk, eggs, and vanilla bean paste. Make sure they are well combined. Stir these wet ingredients into the dry ones, mixing until just combined. Over-mixing can make the dough tough, so be gentle.
Next, fold in the melted butter. This should be done gently to keep the dough light and airy. Once mixed, it's time to roll out the dough. On a floured surface, roll it to about a half-inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter to create your doughnut shapes. If you don't have a cutter, a large and small glass can work in a pinch.
Heat your vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the doughnuts in batches, usually 2-3 minutes per side, until they are golden brown. It's important not to overcrowd the pot as this can lower the oil temperature and affect cooking.
Once fried, let the doughnuts drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. For the glaze, whisk together the confectioners' sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. While the doughnuts are still warm, dip them into the glaze, then place them on a wire rack to set.
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