Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release excess air.
Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness.
Use a donut cutter or two different-sized round cookie cutters to cut out the donut shapes. You can also use a glass to cut the outer circle and a smaller cutter or bottle cap for the hole.
Second Rise:
Place the cut donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, until they puff up.
Fry the Donuts:
In a deep skillet or pot, heat enough oil (about 2-3 inches deep) over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). To test if it’s ready, drop a small piece of dough into the oil—if it sizzles and rises to the surface, it’s good to go.
Carefully add a few donuts at a time, being cautious not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
Draining and Coating:
Use a slotted spoon to remove the donuts from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
While they are still warm, sprinkle the donuts generously with granulated sugar or cinnamon sugar for a delightful sweet touch.
Serve:
Enjoy your croissant donuts warm or at room temperature. These treats pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or as a delightful dessert!
Tips and Variations:
Flavor Add-Ins: Experiment with different flavorings like almond extract or a splash of rum for a unique twist.
Filled Donuts: For filled donuts, consider adding a pastry cream, jam, or chocolate filling. Simply inject the filling with a piping bag once the donuts have cooled.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in the oven for a fresh taste.
Glaze Option: For a decadent touch, dip the warm donuts in a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
Enjoy making and indulging in these delightful Croissant Donuts! They’re sure to become a favorite treat that’s hard to resist!
