Grandmother's Conference Potato Donuts

There are about a million things that I love about my in-laws, and right up near the top of the list is their tradition of having donuts every year at general conference time. Since we live away from most of our family, we've spent the last several years doing this in our own home with friends and neighbors. It's an awesome tradition, and so are these donuts. Try them. Just one bite will put Krispy Kreme to shame. This recipe makes about 35 donuts.

1/3 c. warm water

2 tsp. dry yeast

1/3 c. shortening

2 eggs, beaten

1 1/3 tsp. salt

1 c. milk

1/3 c. sugar

2/3 c. salted mashed potatoes (fake or real)

2/3 tsp. lemon juice

2/3. tsp. grated lemon rind

4-5+ cups flour

Combine milk, shortening, salt , sugar and mashed potatoes. Heat until lukewarm. Add beaten eggs and yeast that has been dissolved in 1/3 c. of warm water. Add 3 cups of flour and beat until well blended and smooth (I use my bread mixer - you could also try your bread machine, or do it by hand). Add lemon juice, rind and nutmeg. Add remaining flour to make a soft, but firm dough (use more flour if necessary). Knead until smooth. Cover and let rise until double in bulk. Punch down and divide dough in half. Roll out 1/2 inch thick and cut with donut cutter (you could also do this by hand with a cup and a lid). Allow to rise until double, covered, for about 45 minutes. Fry in vegetable oil (medium-high or 380 degrees) until golden brown on each side. Drain on absorbent paper, then dip in prepared glaze.

Glaze

1 1/2 c. powdered sugar

1/4 c. warm water (added by the tablespoon)

1 tsp. vanilla

1/4 tsp. cream of tartar

1 TBS. karo syrup