Why Make Homemade Donuts?
Nothing beats the taste of fresh, homemade donuts. These soft, golden rings of joy are easy to make and taste better than store-bought versions. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy bakery-style donuts at home.easy donuts recipe
Table of contents
Ingredients for Perfect Homemade Donuts Recipe
For the Dough: Homemade Donuts Recipe
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm milk
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Frying:
- 4 cups vegetable oil
For the Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Donuts Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, mix warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. This ensures the yeast is active and ready for the dough.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and the activated yeast mixture. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rise for an hour until it doubles in size.
Step 3: Shape the Donuts
Roll out the dough to ½-inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters to shape the donuts. Place them on a floured surface and cover with a towel. Let them rest for 30 minutes.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a deep pan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Ensure the oil maintains this temperature for even frying.
Step 5: Fry the Homemade Donuts Recipe
Gently place donuts in the hot oil, frying for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and drain on a paper towel.
Step 6: Prepare the Glaze
Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Dip each warm donut into the glaze and let excess drip off. Place on a wire rack to set.
Homemade Donuts
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Rolling Pin
- Donut Cutter
- Frying Pan
- Wire Rack
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast one packet
- ¾ cup warm milk around 110°F
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Frying
- 4 cups vegetable oil for deep frying
For the Glaze
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and activated yeast mixture. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
- Cover and let the dough rise for an hour until it doubles in size.
- Roll out the dough to ½-inch thickness and cut into donut shapes. Place on a floured surface and let rest for 30 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pan. Fry donuts for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on a paper towel.
- Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Dip warm donuts into the glaze and let excess drip off.
- Place on a wire rack to set. Serve fresh and enjoy!
Video
Notes
Tips for the Best Homemade Donuts easy donuts to make
- Use fresh yeast to ensure proper rising.
- Maintain oil temperature to prevent greasy or undercooked donuts.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan to allow even frying.
- Glaze while warm for better absorption and shine.
Variations to Try
- Chocolate Glaze: Replace vanilla extract with melted chocolate.
- Cinnamon Sugar: Roll warm donuts in cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Filled Donuts: Inject custard, jam, or Nutella inside.
- Sprinkle Toppings: Add colorful sprinkles for a fun touch.
- Powdered Sugar Coating: Dust donuts with powdered sugar for a classic finish.
How to Store Homemade Donuts Recipe
Homemade donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them properly:
- Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the microwave for 10 seconds to restore freshness.
- Avoid refrigerating as it makes them dry.
- Freeze unglazed donuts in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Reheat before glazing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes until golden brown. They won’t be as crispy but will still be delicious.
Substitute milk with almond or oat milk. Replace eggs with applesauce or flaxseed egg.
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The dough may be slightly softer but will still be delicious.
Store in an airtight container with a slice of bread. The bread absorbs excess moisture, keeping the donuts fresh.
Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work best as they have a high smoke point and neutral flavor.
Fun Ways to Serve Donuts
- Serve with hot coffee or tea for a classic pairing.
- Create a DIY donut bar with various glazes and toppings.
- Make mini donut skewers with fruit and chocolate drizzle.
- Stack donuts as a centerpiece for brunch gatherings.
Final Thoughts
Making homemade donuts is easier than you think. With the right ingredients and technique, you can create bakery-style treats in your kitchen. Whether glazed, powdered, or filled, these donuts will bring joy to your table. Try this recipe today and impress your family with warm, fluffy, and delicious donuts!
Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter Cookies
1 comment
Homemade Donuts Recipe