Maple-Pecan Donuts

Name: Maple-Pecan Donuts
Yield: 18
Ingredients: 1 package active dry yeast (2¼ teaspoons); ¼ cup warm water (115°F to 120°F); 1 cup milk; ½ cup granulated sugar; ¼ cup shortening; 1 tsp salt; ¾ cup prepared mashed potatoes; 2 eggs; 1 ½ tbsp maple flavoring; 5 cups all-purpose flour; Oil for deep-fat frying; Maple Frosting (see below); 4 cups chopped pecans

These outrageously delicious donuts feature pecans and the delicate flavor of maple.

This donut delivers everything its appearance promises. The comforting warmth of maple in tender yeast-raised dough, rich caramel frosting and a generous crown of pecans suit these outrageously delicious donuts as autumn or winter treats. Pair it with freshly brewed Red-Eye Coffee bolstered with a shot of espresso, and it’s an enticing way to jump-start the day.

Makes 18 servings

Ingredients

1 package active dry yeast (2¼ teaspoons)
¼ cup warm water (115°F to 120°F)
1 cup milk
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup shortening
1 tsp salt
¾ cup prepared mashed potatoes
2 eggs
1 ½ tbsp maple flavoring
5 cups all-purpose flour
Oil for deep-fat frying
Maple Frosting (see below)
4 cups chopped pecans

Directions

In a small bowl dissolve yeast in warm water. In a large saucepan heat milk until almost boiling. Stir in sugar, shortening and salt. Stir in mashed potatoes, eggs, maple flavoring and yeast mixture. Gradually stir in 4 cups of the flour. Turn out onto a floured surface and knead in remaining 1 cup flour until dough is smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes. Place in a lightly greased bowl; turn to grease surface of dough. Cover and let rise in a warm place (80°F to 85°F) until double in size, about 1 hour.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to ½-inch thickness. Cut with a 3-inch donut cutter. Cover and let rise about 1 hour or until double.
Meanwhile, prepare Maple Frosting (see below); set aside.
In a large heavy skillet or deep-fat fryer, heat enough oil to provide 1½ inches of frying depth to 375°F. Fry several donuts at a time for 1 to 1½ minutes per side or until golden. Drain and cool slightly on double thickness of paper towels. Dip tops of warm donuts into Maple Frosting; dip in chopped pecans. Cool.

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