Homemade donuts are a true comfort food, and with this easy donut recipe, you can make them from scratch in your own kitchen. Perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike, this recipe simplifies the process while still delivering soft, fluffy, and irresistibly delicious donuts. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic round donut or want to try a fun braided version, the possibilities are endless. What makes this recipe even better is the sweet cinnamon-sugar coating that adds the perfect touch of flavor and texture to every bite. Plus, making donuts at home allows you to control the quality of ingredients and get them just the way you like.
When it comes to homemade donuts, there’s something extra special about the process of making them from scratch. The dough is simple and easy to work with, but the result is a batch of donuts that are perfectly tender and golden brown. Frying them gives the donuts a delightful crispness on the outside while keeping the inside soft and airy. The cinnamon-sugar coating is the cherry on top, but you can also customize them with other toppings like icing or sprinkles to make them your own.
Not only is this recipe beginner-friendly, but it also offers flexibility in terms of shaping and toppings. You can create classic round donuts, make a braided version for a fun twist, or even shape them into mini donuts for a bite-sized treat. Once they’re fried, you have the option to roll them in a cinnamon-sugar mixture for that warm, comforting flavor or frost them with your favorite icing for a more indulgent treat. Whether you’re making these donuts for a family breakfast, a brunch gathering, or simply as a sweet afternoon snack, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
To make the perfect donut dough, you will need 3 cups of all-purpose flour. The flour acts as the foundation of the dough, providing structure and helping to give the donuts their soft and fluffy texture. Next, you’ll need 7 grams of baker’s yeast to help the dough rise. Yeast is a crucial ingredient that allows the dough to puff up and become light and airy once it’s fried.
For sweetness, you’ll need 5 tablespoons of sugar, which will sweeten the dough just enough without overpowering the flavor. 1 cup of milk adds moisture to the dough, making it soft and easy to work with. The addition of 1 egg enriches the dough, giving it a slight richness that contributes to its texture and flavor. A ½ teaspoon of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the overall taste of the dough, ensuring the donuts aren’t too sugary.
For frying, you’ll need oil that can withstand high temperatures, so make sure you have enough oil to submerge the donuts for even frying. After frying, the fun begins! To coat the donuts, you’ll need 3 tablespoons of sugar mixed with ½ tablespoon of cinnamon powder. This mixture will give your donuts that signature cinnamon-sugar flavor, which is a beloved classic. Alternatively, you can opt for frosting or other toppings to elevate the donuts further.
Preparation
Start by dissolving the yeast in a small bowl with a little lukewarm water. This step activates the yeast and ensures it’s ready to work its magic in the dough. Once the yeast has dissolved and become bubbly, add the flour to the bowl and mix it well. You can use a stand mixer or a bread machine for this step, or if you’re doing it by hand, knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. The key to getting the perfect donut dough is kneading it long enough to develop the gluten and create a dough that holds its shape.
Once the dough starts coming together, add 1 cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and the egg. Mix these ingredients into the dough until well combined. Then, add ½ teaspoon of salt, and knead the dough for about 3 minutes to make sure the dough is smooth and pliable. At this point, add 2 tablespoons of softened butter to the dough, and knead again until it becomes soft, shiny, and elastic. The butter will enrich the dough, making the donuts tender and flavorful.
Once the dough is ready, form it into a ball, cover it with cling film, and let it rise for about 1 hour. During this time, the dough will double in size, thanks to the yeast working its magic. This rise is what gives the donuts their airy texture once they’re fried, so don’t rush this step!
After the dough has risen, it’s time to shape it. Divide the dough into equal portions and shape each portion into a round ball, or get creative and braid the dough to make unique shapes. You can also make mini donuts by dividing the dough into smaller portions. Place the shaped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and allow it to rise for an additional 30 minutes. This second rise will give the donuts a light and fluffy texture.
Frying and Coating the Donuts
Once the dough has risen for the second time, it’s time to fry the donuts. Heat enough oil in a large pan or deep fryer to fully submerge the donuts. The oil should be hot enough that a small piece of dough sizzles when dropped in. Fry the donuts for about 3 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, while still soft on the inside.
When the donuts are fried, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This will ensure your donuts don’t end up too greasy. While they’re still warm, roll them in a cinnamon-sugar mixture made with 3 tablespoons of sugar and ½ tablespoon of cinnamon powder. This coating adds sweetness and a comforting warmth to the donuts. If you prefer, you can skip the cinnamon-sugar and instead drizzle them with frosting, dip them in chocolate ganache, or top them with sprinkles for an extra fun touch.
Conclusion
This easy donut recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy homemade donuts with minimal effort. With just a few ingredients and some simple steps, you can create a batch of fluffy, golden donuts that are perfect for any occasion. The cinnamon-sugar coating is a classic favorite, but feel free to get creative with your toppings or fillings. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack, these donuts are sure to be a hit. Plus, they are a great way to spend time in the kitchen and bond with family or friends while enjoying delicious homemade treats.
So, whether you’re an experienced baker or trying your hand at making donuts for the first time, this recipe will help you achieve bakery-quality results. Why not share these homemade donuts with loved ones, or enjoy them on your own with a cup of coffee or tea? Whatever you decide, you’re in for a real treat!
Do you like your donuts rolled in cinnamon-sugar, or do you prefer other creative toppings? Let us know your favorite way to enjoy homemade donuts! #HomemadeDonuts #CinnamonSugarDonuts #DonutRecipe #EasyDonuts #FriedDonuts #BakingFun
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