Start by combining the warm milk, granulated sugar, and yeast in a mixing bowl. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it bubbles. This is a sign the yeast is active! In another bowl, combine the flour and salt.

Add the melted butter and beaten eggs to the yeast mixture. Combine it with your flour and salt mix. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth. If it feels too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour.

Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it sit in a warm area for about an hour. The dough should double in size. Go ahead and take a breather while you wait.

Once it has risen, punch it down and roll it out to about a half-inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut doughnuts using a round cutter, and don’t forget to make holes in the center!

Place your cut-out doughnuts on a floured baking sheet. Cover and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.

In a deep pan, heat your shortening or vegetable oil over medium heat. It’s crucial to ensure it reaches about 350°F for perfect frying. Use a thermometer if you have one!

Carefully fry the doughnuts a few at a time, about 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Let them drain on paper towels.

While the doughnuts cool, mix the melted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cream or milk, sea salt, and optional cinnamon in a bowl until smooth.

Dip each warm doughnut into the glaze. Allow any excess to drip off before placing them on a rack.

Once they’re glazed, it’s time to relish your homemade doughnuts!