Few treats evoke as much nostalgia and delight as Classic Fried Sugar Doughnuts. With their golden-brown crust, soft interior, and a generous coating of sugar, these doughnuts bring back memories of childhood indulgence, festive fairs, and cozy family gatherings. This simple yet iconic recipe allows you to recreate that magic right in your own kitchen.

These doughnuts are perfect for a special breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a dessert to share with loved ones. The best part? They’re made with basic pantry staples, yet they yield a result that feels decadent and luxurious. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at frying for the first time, this recipe is straightforward and satisfying.

Let’s dive into the details of crafting these irresistible doughnuts, explore what makes them timeless, and discover tips for achieving the perfect texture and flavor every time.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Doughnut Dough:

• 200ml (0.82 cup) warm milk
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 7g yeast
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 egg
• 400g (3.2 cups) all-purpose flour
• 40g (0.18 cup) butter, softened

For Frying and Coating:

• Oil, for frying
• Additional sugar, for sprinkling

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Rising Time: 1 hour
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour and 40 minutes

Servings

This recipe yields approximately 12 doughnuts, making it ideal for sharing with family and friends.

Nutrition Facts (Per Doughnut)

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Protein: 4 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fat: 9 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sodium: 120 mg

Steps to Make Classic Fried Sugar Doughnuts

1. Prepare the Dough

• In a mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
• Sprinkle the yeast over the milk and let it sit for 5–7 minutes, until frothy. This activates the yeast.

2. Mix the Ingredients

• Add the salt, egg, and softened butter to the yeast mixture. Mix well.
• Gradually incorporate the flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough

• Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–6 minutes.

4. Let the Dough Rise

• Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

5. Shape the Doughnuts

• Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness.
• Use a round cutter (or a glass) to cut out circles. For classic ring doughnuts, cut smaller holes in the center.
• Arrange the doughnuts on a tray lined with parchment paper. Cover and let them rise again for 20–30 minutes.

6. Fry the Doughnuts

• Heat oil in a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
• Fry the doughnuts in batches, 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on a plate lined with paper towels.

7. Coat in Sugar

• While the doughnuts are still warm, toss them in a bowl of sugar, ensuring they are evenly coated.

8. Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the doughnuts warm for the best texture and flavor. Pair with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for the ultimate treat.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Classic Fried Sugar Doughnuts are more than a dessert—they’re a cultural icon. From street vendors to high-end patisseries, doughnuts have found a place in cuisines worldwide. Their appeal lies in their versatility and simplicity: a few basic ingredients come together to create something universally loved.

This recipe honors the traditional method of making yeast-raised doughnuts, which yield a soft, airy texture that melts in your mouth. The sprinkle of sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness, allowing the dough’s flavor to shine through.

Doughnuts also carry a sense of nostalgia. They remind us of celebrations, weekend mornings, and the joy of sharing homemade treats. They’re timeless because they evoke happiness, comfort, and indulgence—qualities that never go out of style.

Tips for Perfect Doughnuts

1. Use Warm Milk: The milk should be warm but not hot (about 110°F or 43°C) to activate the yeast without killing it.
2. Softened Butter: Ensure the butter is softened for easy incorporation into the dough.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Fryer: Fry a few doughnuts at a time to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
4. Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil at a steady 350°F (175°C). Too hot, and the doughnuts will burn; too cool, and they’ll absorb excess oil.
5. Serve Fresh: Doughnuts are best enjoyed the day they’re made, as they tend to lose their texture over time.