Description
Classic homemade fried doughnuts coated in granulated sugar, made from a soft yeast dough. These doughnuts are fluffy, golden, and perfect for a sweet treat any time of day, with a simple cinnamon sugar variation option.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough:
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil (for frying, about 2–3 inches in depth)
For Coating:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture is foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt. Stir in the yeast mixture. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing continuously until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for 5–7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, which helps develop the gluten for a tender texture.
- First rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the doughnuts: Once risen, punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Roll it out to about ½-inch thickness. Cut out doughnut shapes using a doughnut cutter or two round cutters – one larger for the outer circle and a smaller one for the hole in the middle.
- Second rise: Place the shaped doughnuts on a floured surface, cover them lightly, and let rise for another 30 minutes until puffy.
- Heat the oil: Heat 2–3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F, using a thermometer to maintain the correct frying temperature.
- Fry the doughnuts: Fry the doughnuts in batches for 1–2 minutes per side or until they are golden brown on both sides. Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove them from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined tray.
- Coat with sugar: While still warm, roll the doughnuts in granulated sugar until fully coated, giving them a sweet, crunchy exterior.
- Serve: Serve the doughnuts immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For a cinnamon twist, mix 1 tablespoon cinnamon into the sugar before coating to add a warm spice flavor.
- These doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat stored doughnuts in a 300°F oven for a few minutes to revive softness and freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
