Snowflake Doughnuts

2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast
1 cup warm water
1-1/4 cups warm milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 eggs
6 cups all-purpose flour
Cooking oil for deep-fat frying
Confectioners' sugar or additional sugar, optional

In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add warm milk and oil. Add sugar, salt and eggs; mix well. Stir in flour (dough will be very sticky). Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 45 minutes. Stir down and let rise for 45 minutes. Stir down; roll out on a well-floured surface to 1/2-in. thickness.

Cut with a 2-1/2-in. cutter. Place on greased baking sheets; cover and let rise for 45 minutes. In an electric skillet or deep-fat fryer, heat 1 in. of oil to 350 degrees. Fry the doughnuts, a few at a time, for 2 minutes per side or until browned. Drain on paper towels. Dust with sugar if desired. Makes 18 servings.