Step 1

In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add warm milk and oil. Add sugar, salt and eggs. Stir in flour (dough will be very sticky).

Step 2

Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled, about 45 minutes.

Step 3

When the dough has risen, stir it so that it deflates slightly, gather it into a ball, and turn it out onto a well-floured surface. Roll to 1/2-inch thickness, and cut with a 2-1/2-inch doughnut cutter.

Step 4

Place your cut doughnuts on greased baking sheets; cover and let rise for 45 minutes.

Step 5

In an electric skillet, deep-fat fryer or Dutch oven, heat oil to 375°F. Make sure you use an oil intended for high temperature cooking. Fry the doughnuts, a few at a time until golden brown on both sides, about 2 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels. Then fry the doughnut holes.

Step 6

If desired, roll the finished doughnuts in granulated sugar, or dust with confectioners' sugar. For even more flavor, add some cinnamon, nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice to the sugar.