Classic Homemade Doughnuts Recipe
There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly fried doughnuts wafting through your kitchen. These Classic Homemade Doughnuts are soft, fluffy, and perfectly sweet, with a golden exterior and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whether you prefer them glazed, powdered, or filled with jam, this recipe will guide you through making doughnuts from scratch. They’re perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a special treat!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water (110°F or 43°C)
- 3/4 cup (180ml) warm milk (110°F or 43°C)
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons (45g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 1/2 cups (420g) all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
For the Glaze (Optional):
- 2 cups (250g) powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Toppings (Optional):
- Cinnamon sugar (1/2 cup sugar + 1 tablespoon cinnamon)
- Powdered sugar
- Chocolate glaze or sprinkles
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Stand mixer or hand mixer (optional)
- Rolling pin
- Doughnut cutter or round cookie cutters
- Thermometer (for oil)
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- Dissolve the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast with 1/4 cup of warm water. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
Step 2: Make the Dough
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine 3/4 cup of warm milk, 1/4 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 egg, and 3 tablespoons of softened butter. Add the activated yeast mixture and stir to combine.
- Add Flour: Gradually add 3 1/2 cups of flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook attachment for 5-7 minutes. If kneading by hand, turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Shape the Doughnuts
- Roll Out the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness.
- Cut the Doughnuts: Use a doughnut cutter or two round cookie cutters (one large and one small) to cut out doughnut shapes. Gather the scraps, reroll, and cut more doughnuts.
- Let Them Rise: Place the cut doughnuts and holes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a kitchen towel and let them rise for 30-45 minutes, or until slightly puffed.
Step 4: Fry the Doughnuts
- Heat the Oil: In a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot, heat 2-3 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
- Fry the Doughnuts: Carefully add a few doughnuts to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon or spider strainer to remove the doughnuts and place them on a cooling rack or paper towels to drain.
Step 5: Glaze and Decorate
- Make the Glaze (Optional): In a small bowl, whisk together 2 cups of powdered sugar, 1/4 cup of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth.
- Glaze the Doughnuts: Dip the warm doughnuts into the glaze, turning to coat both sides. Place them back on the cooling rack to let the glaze set.
- Add Toppings (Optional): While the glaze is still wet, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, powdered sugar, or other toppings.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve Warm: Doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh and warm. Serve with coffee, milk, or your favorite beverage.
Notes
- Yeast Tips: Make sure the water is warm but not too hot, as it can kill the yeast. The ideal temperature is around 110°F (43°C).
- Oil Temperature: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is key. If the oil is too hot, the doughnuts will brown too quickly and remain raw inside. If it’s too cool, they’ll absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Flavor Variations:
- Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for spiced doughnuts.
- Fill the doughnuts with jam, custard, or chocolate ganache using a piping bag.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and frying.
- Storage: Doughnuts are best enjoyed the day they’re made. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to restore softness.
- Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a variety of glazes and toppings for a doughnut bar at parties.
- Pair with fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced breakfast.
Time and Temperature Breakdown
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Rising Time: 1.5-2 hours
- Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 2.5-3 hours
- Frying Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
These Classic Homemade Doughnuts are a delightful treat that’s worth the effort. Soft, fluffy, and customizable, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy
