Here's a basic recipe for making homemade donuts:

 

Ingredients:

• 2 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 and 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk (at room temperature)
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• Optional toppings: powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, chocolate glaze, sprinkles, etc.

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Mix them together.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and eggs until well combined. Add the softened butter to the milk mixture and stir until the butter is fully incorporated.

3. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the milk mixture. Stir everything together until a dough forms.

4. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

5. Place the dough back into the mixing bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 to 2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

6. Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Transfer the dough to a floured surface again and roll it out to about 1/2 inch thickness.

7. Use a donut cutter or a round cookie cutter to cut out donut shapes from the dough. If you don't have a cutter, you can use a glass to cut out the outer circle and a smaller round object (like a bottle cap) to cut out the inner circle.

8. Place the cut-out donuts onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

9. While the donuts are rising, heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or a deep fryer to about 350°F (175°C).

10. Carefully lower a few donuts at a time into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry each side for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the fried donuts to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

11. Repeat the frying process with the remaining donuts until they are all cooked.

12. Once the donuts have cooled slightly, you can coat them in your desired toppings. You can roll them in powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, or dip them in glaze or chocolate. You can also add sprinkles or any other decorations.

13. Serve the donuts fresh and enjoy!

Note: Be cautious when working with hot oil to avoid burns. Always use appropriate safety measures when deep frying.