If you’re looking for a foolproof homemade doughnut recipe, you’re in the right place. These classic doughnuts are light, fluffy, and coated in sugar, making them a timeless treat for breakfast, dessert, or a special occasion. This step-by-step recipe is simple to follow and yields delicious, bakery-style doughnuts right from your kitchen.
Ingredients
To make these soft and airy doughnuts, you’ll need the following basic ingredients:
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3 cups of all-purpose flour
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2 tablespoons of butter (softened)
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7 grams of dry baker’s yeast (about 2¼ teaspoons)
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5 tablespoons of sugar
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1 cup of warm milk
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1 egg
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½ teaspoon of salt
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Vegetable oil (for frying)
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Granulated sugar (for coating)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, one tablespoon of sugar, and the yeast. Stir and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.
2. Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, add the activated yeast mixture, remaining sugar, egg, softened butter, and salt. Gradually add the flour while mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough by hand or with a mixer for 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Tip: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
3. First Rise (Proofing)
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
4. Shape the Doughnuts
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about 1.5 cm (½ inch) thickness. Use a doughnut cutter or two round cutters (one large, one small) to shape your doughnuts. Place them on a tray lined with parchment paper and let them rest for another 20 to 30 minutes.
5. Fry the Doughnuts
Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 170–180°C (340–360°F). Fry the doughnuts in small batches, turning once, until golden brown on both sides. This should take about 1 to 2 minutes per side.
Remove the doughnuts from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
6. Coat with Sugar
While the doughnuts are still warm, roll them in granulated sugar for a classic finish. You can also use cinnamon sugar or powdered sugar, depending on your preference.
Optional Variations
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Filled Doughnuts: Skip cutting out the center and fill the doughnuts with jam, custard, or chocolate after frying.
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Glazed Doughnuts: Dip the fried doughnuts in a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or water.
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Chocolate Dipped: Melt chocolate and dip the tops of the doughnuts. Add sprinkles for a fun twist.
Tips for Success
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Always use warm (not hot) milk to activate the yeast properly.
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Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free environment for best results.
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Use a thermometer to maintain consistent oil temperature while frying.
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Do not overcrowd the frying pan; fry in batches for even cooking.
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 90 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Yield: Approximately 12 doughnuts
Conclusion
Homemade doughnuts are easier to make than you might think, and the results are absolutely worth it. With just a handful of ingredients and a little patience, you can create soft, airy doughnuts that rival any bakery’s. This recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike.
Make a batch for a weekend breakfast, a family gathering, or simply to enjoy a warm treat fresh out of the fryer. Serve them plain, filled, or glazed—the possibilities are endless.
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