These light, fluffy Homemade Doughnuts are the real deal—soft on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside, and absolutely irresistible when still warm. Made with a simple yeast-based dough, they’re fried to golden perfection and perfect for breakfast or any sweet craving.
You can enjoy them plain, dusted with sugar, or dipped in your favorite glaze.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Perfect Texture: Light, airy, and tender with a delicate crisp exterior.
- Made from Scratch: No complicated ingredients—just pantry staples.
- Customizable: Glaze, frost, or sprinkle to your heart’s content!
Ingredients (Makes about 12 doughnuts):
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 7 grams active dry yeast (or instant yeast)
- 5 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 cup whole milk (warm, around 110°F / 45°C)
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and 1 tablespoon of sugar . Sprinkle the yeast over the top and stir gently. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes , until foamy and fragrant—this means the yeast is active and ready to use.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the activated yeast mixture, egg , remaining sugar , salt , flour , and butter .
Mix until everything comes together into a soft dough. If the dough feels sticky, add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it becomes smooth and slightly elastic.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes by hand, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour , or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Doughnuts
Once risen, punch down the dough to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface to about ½-inch thickness .
Use a round cookie cutter or glass (about 3 inches in diameter) to cut out the doughnuts. For traditional centers, use a smaller cutter (about 1 inch) to remove the center hole. Transfer the doughnuts and holes to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Cover and let them rest for another 30 minutes , until puffed up slightly.
Step 5: Fry the Doughnuts
Heat oil (about 2 inches deep) in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C) .
Working in batches, carefully place a few doughnuts at a time into the hot oil. Fry for 1–2 minutes per side , until golden brown. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to flip and remove them once both sides are done.
Drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
While still warm, dust the doughnuts with powdered sugar , dip them in glaze , or drizzle with chocolate sauce .
Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Optional Glaze (Classic Vanilla Icing):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk or cream
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Whisk all ingredients together until smooth. Dip the tops of cooled doughnuts into the glaze and let set before serving.
Tips for Success:
- Oil Temperature Matters: Keep the oil between 350–360°F to ensure even cooking without burning.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry only 2–3 doughnuts at a time to maintain consistent heat.
- Make Ahead: You can shape the doughnuts the night before and refrigerate them, covered, then fry in the morning.
Nutritional Information (per doughnut, without glaze or topping):
- Calories: ~200 kcal
- Protein: ~3g
- Carbohydrates: ~25g
- Fat: ~9g
- Sugar: ~6g
There’s nothing quite like biting into a warm, homemade doughnut—freshly fried, pillowy soft, and full of comforting flavor. Whether you’re making them for a weekend breakfast or a special treat, these Homemade Doughnuts are sure to impress.
So grab your apron and get frying—you deserve that first bite!
