Maple Bacon Doughnuts

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough
   In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add warm milk, beaten eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until a soft dough forms. Turn onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. First rise
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, 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. Then use a 1-inch cutter to remove centers, creating the doughnut shape. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let rise for 30 minutes.
4. Fry the doughnuts
   Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F. Carefully lower doughnuts into hot oil, cooking 2-3 at a time. Fry for about 1 minute on each side until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
5. Make the maple glaze
   In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add a bit more milk; if too thin, add more powdered sugar.
6. Glaze and top the doughnuts
   Dip the top of each cooled doughnut into the maple glaze, allowing excess to drip off. Immediately sprinkle with crumbled bacon, pressing lightly to adhere. Place on a wire rack to allow glaze to set, about 15 minutes.