This recipe is for about 1 dozen donuts (double the recipe for more)
In a small bowl combine:
1 cup of warm milk (heat in microwave for about 40 seconds)
5 teaspoons yeast
1 tablespoon sugar
Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes.
In a medium bowl, combine:
2 cups of flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup sugar
Preheat oil in large sauce pan or fryer. (Add enough oil to make about a 1 1/2" depth.) Oil should be about 350 to 375 degrees (about medium to medium high.)
To the yeast mixture add:
1/2 cup mashed potatoes (perfect if you have leftovers)
2 tablespoons oil
Above flour mixture
Combine just until all flour is absorbed into liquid. Dough will be sticky. Throw dough out onto floured surface and add enough flour to form into a workable ball. Roll out to 1/2" thickness. Try to handle the dough as little as possible, otherwise it will get tough. Using a glass cup or donut cutter, form donuts. You can let your dough sit for a few minutes to rise, or add them straight to the oil. . .whatever you prefer.
Add dough to hot oil and cook for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side or until light golden brown. If your oil is too hot, donuts will brown to fast and will be raw on the inside. Adjust your heat as necessary while cooking and test a small piece of dough before beginning.
Use a glaze, sugar, sugar/cinnamon, or sprinkles to top your donuts.
Glaze
Mix together until smooth:
1 cup powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon vanilla
3 tablespoons milk
Dip tops of donuts into glaze or drizzle glaze on top.
Use whatever circular objects you can find to cut your donuts, ex. a drinking glass, prescription bottles (for the holes), cookie cutters, etc.
