Superb Doughnuts

Directions

1. 1
   Mix together first 3 ingredients.
2. 2
   Sift dry ingredients together and add to shortening.
3. 3
   Mix alternately with milk. Dough will be very soft.
4. 4
   To avoid sticking, rub flour thoroughly with heavy canvas cloth.
5. 5
   Turn dough onto cloth, then fold the four corners, one at a time, over the soft dough to lightly coat with flour.
6. 6
   With as little handling as possible, roll dough 3/4-inch thick.
7. 7
   After rolling, let stand 15 minutes before cutting to make doughnuts easier to handle (this is important). Cut with floured 2 1/2-inch or 3-inch doughnut cutter.
8. 8
   Fry until brown in hot fat (375°), turning when first crack appears (turn with spoon handle to avoid piercing doughnuts).
9. 9
   Takes about 1 1/2 minutes for total frying of doughnuts.
10. 10
    Drain on absorbent paper. Makes 2 to 2 1/2 dozen.