A few weeks ago, Jack was selected as Rolls Royce’s first ever Pioneer Spotlight recipient. Basically, it highlights employees who use innovative methods to further Rolls Royce’s technological advances. In this case, Jack has been working with virtual reality/augmented reality programs to help train technicians who work on a specific engine (it really is pretty cool, if you ever get a chance to see it, and this coming from someone who gets motion sickness with every other type of virtual reality). Long story short, when employees have something to celebrate, from an award to buying a new house to having a baby (Jack pulled the birth announcement at work with our new bull calf and brought in bagels to celebrate…a few people actually fell for it and thought I had just had a new one!), all the coworkers expect a treat of some sort. So, when Jack came home and asked if I could make donut holes to share, I did a little research and discovered the perfect recipe. It’s not quick but good things come to those who wait!
Ingredients:
1 1/8 cup whole milk, warm
1/4 cup sugar
2 1/4 teaspoons (1package) yeast (Instant or Active Dry)
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 1/4 stick (10 Tablespoons) butter, melted
4 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
Shortening or oil for frying
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| That’s alotta donut holes…good thing we were sharing! |
Warm the milk until it’s about 105F. In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk and sugar, then stir to dissolve. Add the yeast and stir to combine. Let the yeast rest for five minutes. Add the beaten eggs and melted butter until incorporated. Slowly add the flour and salt and mix for five minutes (kneading or in a stand mixer). Let the dough rest for 10 minutes, then put into a large bowl that has been lightly oiled. Cover and put in fridge for 8 hours, or overnight. When dough is chilled, turn out dough onto a floured surface and roll until dough is an even 1/3 to 1/2 inch thick. Use a small biscuit cutter and place on a lightly greased baking sheet. Cover and let rise until double, about an hour (the dough will be very puffy and light).
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| It’s important to use a thermometer when frying the donut holes! |
When ready to fry, heat a few inches of oil or shortening until it reaches 365 to 375F (it’s very important to use a thermometer to prevent burning or undercooking!).
Carefully add the donuts one at a time and fry for about 30 seconds per side, or until golden. Scoop out with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined cooling rack. When cool enough to handle, roll in powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, or coat with glaze. Serve imediately.
