Homemade Donuts Recipe

This classic donut recipe yields soft, fluffy donuts with a deliciously sweet glaze. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat, these donuts are easy to make and absolutely irresistible!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 280g All-Purpose Flour (2 cups + 3 tbsp)
• 40g Sugar (3 tbsp)
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Nutmeg
• 1 Egg
• 120g Whole Milk (1/2 cup)
• 40g Melted Butter (1/3 stick)
• 7g Dry Yeast (1 packet)

For the Glaze:

• 250g Powdered Sugar (2 cups)
• 75g Butter (2/3 stick)
• 3-5 tbsp Milk (depending on desired thickness)
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract

Instructions

1. Making the Dough:

Mix Dry Ingredients:

• In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and nutmeg.

Prepare Yeast Mixture:

• In a separate measuring cup or small bowl, mix the warm milk, melted butter, yeast, and egg. Stir well until the yeast is dissolved.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:

• Pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture. Mix using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment on medium speed for about 3 minutes. If mixing by hand, use a wooden spoon or spatula until the mixture is combined, then proceed to knead.

Knead the Dough:

• On an oiled surface, knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, about 10-15 minutes. Add a minimal amount of flour if necessary, but keep the dough soft and slightly sticky.

First Rise:

• Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1.5 to 2 hours.

2. Shaping and Frying:

Roll and Cut Dough:

• Once risen, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough to about 1/2 inch thick. Using a donut cutter or a large and a small cookie cutter, cut out donuts.

Second Rise:

• Place the cut donuts on parchment-lined baking sheets, allowing space between each. Cover lightly and let rise again until puffy, about 20-30 minutes.

Fry the Donuts:

• Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large heavy pot to 320-330°F (160-165°C). Carefully place donuts in the oil, frying each side until golden brown, about 1 minute per side. Use the parchment paper technique to transfer them into the oil. Drain on wire racks over paper towels.

3. Glazing the Donuts:

Make the Glaze:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk if needed.

Glaze the Donuts:

• Dip each warm donut into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the glazed donuts on a wire rack to set.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy warm, freshly glazed donuts with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
• Sprinkle some with colored sugar, sprinkles, or cinnamon for variety.

Cooking Tips

• Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for frying; too hot or too cold can affect the texture of the donuts.
• Be gentle when transferring the donuts to the oil to maintain their shape.

Nutritional Benefits

• Eggs provide protein and essential vitamins.
• Milk adds calcium and moisture to the dough, making the donuts soft and tender.

Dietary Information

• Vegetarian
• Nut-Free

Nutritional Facts (per donut, approx. 1 donut)

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Protein: 4g
• Sugar: 15g

Storage

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, but they may lose some of their softness.
• Freeze: Donuts can be frozen (without glaze) for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Soft: These donuts are soft, fluffy, and perfectly sweet.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with different toppings and fillings.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these donuts are always a hit.

Conclusion

These homemade donuts are a sweet treat that’s well worth the effort. With their soft texture, rich glaze, and customizable toppings, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy them fresh from the fryer for the best flavor and texture!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I bake these donuts instead of frying?
   • Yes, you can bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until golden brown, though they will have a different texture.
2. Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast?
   • Yes, you can substitute with instant yeast and skip the activation step.
3. How do I prevent the donuts from becoming oily?
   • Ensure the oil is at the right temperature and avoid overcrowding the fryer.
4. Can I add fillings to these donuts?
   • Yes, you can fill them with jam, custard, or chocolate after frying.
5. How can I make these donuts dairy-free?
   • Use plant-based milk and butter substitutes.
6. Why did my donuts turn out dense?
   • Overmixing or not letting the dough rise properly can lead to dense donuts.
7. Can I freeze the dough?
   • Yes, you can freeze the dough after the first rise. Thaw in the refrigerator before shaping and frying.
8. Can I add spices to the dough?
   • Yes, adding cinnamon, cardamom, or even a bit more nutmeg can enhance the flavor.
9. How long should I let the donuts rise?
   • The first rise should take about 1.5 to 2 hours, and the second rise 20-30 minutes, depending on the room temperature.
10. What can I do with leftover dough?
    • Roll it into balls and fry them as donut holes, or use it to make cinnamon rolls.