1. Make the Dough
- Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg if using.
- Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the melted butter, milk, and egg.
- Combine: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; it’s okay if the dough is a bit sticky.
- Knead: On a lightly floured surface, gently knead the dough until smooth. Be careful not to overwork it to keep the doughnuts tender.
2. Shape the Doughnuts
- Roll Out: Roll the dough out to about 1/2 inch thickness.
- Cut Out Doughnuts: Use a small round cutter (or the top of a shot glass) to cut out mini doughnuts. You can use a smaller cutter or the end of a piping tip to cut out the centers if desired.
- Re-roll Scraps: Gather the scraps, re-roll, and continue cutting out mini doughnuts until all the dough is used.
3. Fry the Doughnuts
- Heat Oil: In a deep skillet or fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature for frying.
- Fry: Carefully drop the doughnuts into the hot oil, a few at a time, to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 1 minute on each side or until golden brown and puffed up.
- Drain: Remove the doughnuts with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
4. Add Toppings
- Prepare Toppings: While the doughnuts are still warm, roll them in granulated sugar, cinnamon sugar, or powdered sugar. Alternatively, dip the tops in chocolate or vanilla glaze.
- Cool: Let the glazed doughnuts sit until the glaze has set, about 15-20 minutes.
Tips for Perfect Mini Doughnuts
- Consistent Heat: Keep the oil at a consistent temperature by adjusting the heat as necessary. If the oil is too hot, the outside of the doughnuts will burn before the inside is cooked.
- Do Not Overcrowd: Frying too many doughnuts at once can lower the oil’s temperature too quickly, resulting in greasy doughnuts.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings and glazes. Sprinkles, crushed nuts, or even a drizzle of caramel can add an extra touch of fun and flavor.
These homemade fried mini doughnuts are sure to be a hit, providing a perfect blend of sweetness and texture that can be customized to suit any taste preference. Enjoy them as a special treat, and have fun experimenting with different toppings and flavors!