No Knead Drop Doughnuts

Step 1

In a stand mixer bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water; let sit 5 minutes. Add warm milk, sugar, salt, shortening and spices. Using a paddle attachment, mix to combine. Add 1 1/2 cups flour and eggs. Beat 2 minutes medium speed until smooth. Add the remaining the flour; mix until smooth, about 1 to 1 1/2 minutes. Scrape down batter from sides of bowl. Cover. Let rise in warm place until doubled, about 30 minutes.(For hand mixing: following above steps, mix ingredients in large mixing bowl using a wooden spoon or dough whisk.)

Step 2

In heavy pot, fill with 2 inches of vegetable oil; heat to 350-375°F. Use a candy thermometer to check temperature.

Step 3

Beat down raised batter in about 25 strokes. Drop batter from teaspoon or small cookie scoop into hot oil (see note). Using a slotted spoon, flip doughnuts when edges show color, frying until golden brown, about 1 to 1 1/2 minutes on each side. Set on paper towel to drain. Roll in sugar while still warm.