Why do fried donuts crack?

Fried donuts can crack due to a few reasons, primarily related to the dough's moisture content and frying temperature. If the dough is too dry or contains insufficient fat, it can lead to a lack of elasticity, causing cracks during frying. Additionally, if the oil temperature is too high, the outer layer may cook too quickly while the inside remains undercooked, leading to surface cracks. Proper dough hydration and maintaining the right frying temperature can help prevent this issue.