Ingredients

• For the batter:

  • 1 ⅓ cup granulated sugar

  • 4 ½ tbsp salted butter; softened 

  • 3 large eggs

  • ¼  cup buttermilk 

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 4 cups oil (for frying) 

  • 2 cups all purpose flour

  • 1 cup dark cocoa powder 

  • 1 ¾ tsp baking powder

  • 1 tsp salt

• For the icing: 

  • ½ cup whole milk 

  • 2 cups powdered sugar

  • 1 tsp salt 

  • 2 tsp vanilla

Instructions

1. In the bowl of an electric mixer, cream together the butter and sugar until fully incorporated, about 2 minutes on medium speed. 

2. Add the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating between each addition. Add the vanilla extract and milk, mixing on low speed until combined. 

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and beat on low speed until thoroughly combined.

4. In a large pot, heat the oil on high heat for about 5 minutes. Drop a small amount of the dough into the oil and if the oil around it bubbles rapidly, the oil is hot enough and ready for frying.

5. Form 6 donut shapes out of the dough and place into the oil, making sure they are not touching each other. Lower the heat to medium. You may need to do this in multiple batches.

6. Cook the donuts for about 5 minutes on one side. Use tongs to move the donuts around as they fry to prevent any from sticking to the pan. Cook for about 8 minutes on the other side. 

7. Remove the donuts from the oil and place on a paper-towel lined plate. Let cool for about 30 minutes. 

8. In a small bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the icing until smooth. 

9. Place the donuts on a wire rack and pour the icing over top.