Go Nuts for Doughnuts and Glaze

Go Nuts for Doughnuts
1 pkgs (1/4 oz each) yeast or 4 1/2 tsp
1/4 cup water (105 to 115 degrees)
1 1/2 cups lukewarm milk (scalded, then cooled)
1/2 cup sugar
1 tsp salt
2 eggs
1/3 cup shortening
5 cups flour, divided
2+ quarts canola oil

1. Proof or dissolve yeast in warm water in 2 1/2 quart bowl.
2. Add milk, sugar, salt, eggs, shortening and 2 cups flour.
3. Beat on low for 30 seconds, scraping bowl constantly.
4. Beat on medium for 2 minutes, scraping bowl occasionally.
5. Stir in remaining flour until smooth.
6. Cover and let rise until double (50 to 60 minutes).
7. (Dough is ready when indentations remains when touched.) Turn dough onto floured surface.
8. Gently roll dough 1/2 in chick with rolling pin. Cut out doughnuts by cutting out large circle and using smaller cutter to remove center.
9. Cover and let rise while oil is heating.
10. Heat oil to 350 degrees.
11. Slide doughnuts and doughnut holes into hot oil.
12. Fry until golden brown - 1 minutes - then flip and fry other side.
13. Remove carefully from oil (do not prick surface) and drain on paper towels and/or rack.
14. Dip doughnuts in creamy glaze or cover with chocolate frosting.

Creamy Glaze
1/3 cup butter
2 cups powdered sugar
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
4 to 6 Tbsp hot water

1. Melt butter
2. Stir in powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.
3. Stir in 1 Tbsp water at a time until desired consistency is reached.
submitted by: Jill Geslison