Holiday Honey Doughnuts

Makes 12 doughnuts

1 (1/4 ounce) package dried yeast
2 tablespoons warm water
2 tablespoons honey
2 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons butter, softened
1 egg, beaten
1/4 cup milk
Vegetable oil
Honey Nut Filling (recipe follows)

Dissolve yeast in warm water; stir in honey. Combine flour and salt; blend in butter. Add yeast mixture, egg and milk to form soft dough. Beat well and knead 5 minutes on floured board. Divide dough into 12 portions; form into a ball and place on a greased baking sheet. Cover and let rise in a warm place about 1 hour or until doubled in bulk.

Deep-fry in 350 degree F oil 2 to 3 minutes or until browned on both sides; turn dough over halfway through cooking time. Drain on paper towels. Slit on side of doughnut and fill each with 2 to 3 teaspoons Honey Nut Filling.

Honey Nut Filling:

Makes 3/4 cup

1/4 cup dried apricots, apples and walnuts
2 tablespoons honey

Combine chopped dried apricots, apples and walnuts; stir in honey and mix well.

Serving Suggestion:
Serve with honey to drizzle on filled doughnuts.

Recipe and photograph provided courtesy of the National Honey Board.