Extra soft Braided Donuts

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Toppings:

• Sprinkles, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut

Calories (approximate): (Note: Caloric values may vary based on specific ingredients and quantities used)

Preparation Steps:

For the Dough:

Step 1: In a bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle active dry yeast over the mixture and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Add melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir well.

Step 3: Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 4: Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 5: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

For Assembly:

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a large rectangle.

Step 3: Spread softened butter over the dough, leaving a border around the edges.

Step 4: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough.

Step 5: Starting from one of the long sides, tightly roll the dough into a log.

Step 6: Cut the log in half lengthwise, exposing the layers. Twist the two halves together, creating a braided effect.

Step 7: Cut the braided log into even pieces to form individual donuts. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until the donuts are golden brown.

For the Glaze:

Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 2: Once the donuts have cooled slightly, dip the tops into the glaze.

Step 3: Optionally, sprinkle with toppings like sprinkles, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut.

Step 4: Allow the glaze to set before serving the Extra Soft Braided Donuts.

These Extra Soft Braided Donuts offer a delightful twist on traditional donuts, combining a pillowy texture with a sweet and cinnamon-infused filling. Perfect for sharing or indulging in a sweet moment alone.