Tired of complicated baking projects? Craving something sweet and delicious but short on time? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe for doughnuts in a bag is the ultimate solution for satisfying your sweet tooth without the fuss. Forget messy countertops and complicated techniques – these fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth doughnuts are made entirely in a bag, making them perfect for quick dinner ideas or a fun weekend activity with the kids. This recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes and homemade cooking at its finest, resulting in a truly delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
- Your favorite glaze or toppings (powdered sugar, chocolate icing, sprinkles – get creative!)
Instructions:
Get Ready to Doughnut:
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In a large, resealable gallon-sized freezer bag, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Seal the bag and shake well to mix the dry ingredients thoroughly. This simple step ensures even distribution of flavor in your delicious doughnuts.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, oil, and vanilla extract.
The Magic of the Bag:
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Add the wet ingredients to the bag with the dry ingredients. Seal the bag tightly, pressing out as much air as possible.
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Now for the fun part! Knead the dough inside the bag by gently pressing and squishing it for about 2-3 minutes until a soft, smooth dough forms. You'll feel it coming together through the bag.
Frying & Finishing:
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Heat about 2 inches of oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Use a candy thermometer to ensure accurate temperature for perfectly cooked doughnuts.
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Once the oil is hot, carefully snip a small corner off one of the bottom corners of the bag.
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Pipe or squeeze small portions of the dough (about 2 tablespoons each) into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
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Remove the cooked doughnuts with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Let them cool slightly.
Glazing & Garnishing:
- While the doughnuts are still slightly warm, dip them in your favorite glaze or sprinkle them with powdered sugar, chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or any other toppings you desire. Get creative and personalize your doughnuts!
Tips for Doughnut Perfection:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature, resulting in greasy doughnuts. Fry in batches for best results.
- Use a thermometer: Accurate oil temperature is key to perfectly cooked doughnuts. Don't guess!
- Let them cool slightly: Before glazing, let the doughnuts cool slightly to prevent the glaze from melting immediately.
- Get creative with toppings: The possibilities are endless! Experiment with different glazes, sprinkles, and fruits.
Variations:
- Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: Instead of a glaze, toss the cooked doughnuts in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar.
- Chocolate Doughnuts: Add 1-2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolatey twist.
- Glazed Doughnut Variations: Experiment with different glazes, such as lemon glaze, maple glaze, or even a cream cheese glaze!
Nutritional Information (per doughnut, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your doughnuts and the toppings used. However, a general estimate is around 200-250 calories, with varying amounts of fat, carbohydrates, and protein. This recipe is best enjoyed as an occasional treat.
This easy doughnut recipe is a great example of healthy meals achieved through simple cooking. Enjoy these delicious, homemade doughnuts and impress your family and friends with minimal effort! They're the perfect treat for any occasion – and the cleanup is a breeze!