Chocolate Glazed Doughnuts

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough
   In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy. Add sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and salt. Mix well. Gradually add the flour, stirring until a soft dough forms.
2. Knead and rise
   On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
3. Shape the doughnuts
   Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness. Using a 3-inch round cutter, cut out circles. Use a smaller 1-inch cutter to remove centers, creating doughnut shapes. Place on parchment-lined baking sheets. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
4. Heat the oil
   In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat oil to 350°F. Use a kitchen thermometer to maintain this temperature throughout the frying process.
5. Fry the doughnuts
   Carefully lower 2-3 doughnuts into the hot oil. Fry for about 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat with remaining doughnuts and holes.
6. Prepare chocolate glaze
   In a medium bowl, sift together powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Add vanilla and enough milk to create a smooth, pourable glaze that's not too thin. Whisk until completely smooth and glossy.
7. Glaze the doughnuts
   Once doughnuts have cooled slightly but are still warm, dip the tops into the chocolate glaze. Place on a wire rack to allow excess glaze to drip off and the glaze to set, about 20 minutes.