Modern Doughnuts

Ingredients

• 0.75 cup Sugar (Original recipe calls for 1 cup, adjusted for modern sweetness preferences.)
• 3 tablespoons Butter, softened (Original recipe calls for 2.5 tablespoons, rounded up.)
• 3 Eggs
• 1 cup Milk
• 4 teaspoons Baking powder
• 0.25 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
• 0.25 teaspoon Grated nutmeg
• 1.5 teaspoons Salt
• 4 cups All-purpose flour (Approximately, plus more for dusting.)
• 4 cups Vegetable oil, for frying (Or enough for deep frying)

Instructions

1. 1In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and half of the sugar (about 1/3 cup) until light and fluffy.
2. 2In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until light. Gradually add the remaining sugar (about 1/3 cup) and continue beating until well combined.
3. 3Combine the egg mixture with the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Mix well.
4. 4In a separate bowl, whisk together 3.5 cups of flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. 5Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Add more flour, about 1/2 cup at a time, until the dough is stiff enough to roll.
6. 6Lightly flour a clean surface. Toss one-third of the dough onto the floured surface and knead slightly. Pat the dough down and roll it out to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter to shape the doughnuts. Place the cut doughnuts on a lightly floured baking sheet.
7. 7Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the doughnuts in the hot oil, a few at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove the doughnuts with a slotted spoon or skimmer and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. 8Add the trimmings to one-half of the remaining dough, roll, shape, and fry as before. Repeat with the last portion of dough.
9. 9Let the doughnuts cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed fresh.