There’s something magical about homemade yeast donuts. Soft, fluffy, and coated with a light dusting of powdered sugar, these donuts evoke memories of childhood treats, cozy mornings, and special celebrations. Unlike their store-bought counterparts, these donuts are made with simple, wholesome ingredients, resulting in a texture and flavor that’s unmatched.
Yeast donuts have been a beloved staple across cultures and generations. Whether enjoyed plain, filled with jam, or dipped in a glaze, they hold a timeless charm. Their slight sweetness, airy interior, and golden, crispy exterior make them the perfect indulgence. This recipe takes you step by step through creating these classic treats, ensuring bakery-quality donuts from the comfort of your kitchen.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Donut Dough:
- 350 g all-purpose flour
- 7 g (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 160 g warm milk
- 40 g sugar
- 1/3 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 30 g unsalted butter, softened
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For Serving:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and active dry yeast in the warm milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the frothy yeast mixture, the egg, and softened butter. Mix until a dough forms.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Step 4: Shape the Donuts
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface to about 1 cm (½ inch) thickness.
Use a round cutter (about 3 inches in diameter) to cut out donut shapes. For the classic ring shape, use a smaller cutter (about 1 inch) to remove the center. Gather the scraps, re-roll, and cut more donuts.
Place the shaped donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with a towel and let them rise again for about 30-40 minutes, until slightly puffed.
Step 5: Fry the Donuts
In a large, deep pot, heat vegetable oil to 175°C (350°F). Use a thermometer to maintain a consistent temperature.
Carefully lower a few donuts into the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
Remove the donuts with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 6: Dust with Powdered Sugar
Once the donuts are slightly cooled, dust them generously with powdered sugar. Serve warm and enjoy!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 10-12 donuts
Calories: ~250 kcal per donut
Why This Recipe is Timeless
The beauty of homemade yeast donuts lies in their simplicity and adaptability. They represent comfort and indulgence, bringing people together over a shared love for freshly fried treats. Their origins trace back centuries, with each culture adding its own twist—be it sugared, glazed, or filled.
What makes this recipe timeless is its versatility. Whether you’re making them for a lazy weekend breakfast, a festive gathering, or just because, these donuts never go out of style. The process of kneading, shaping, and frying adds a hands-on, therapeutic element to baking that many find rewarding.
The combination of a light, airy interior and a crisp, golden exterior creates a perfect balance of textures, while the gentle sweetness ensures they’re never too heavy. No matter how you serve them, these donuts remain a beloved classic that transcends trends and time.
Nutrition Facts (Per Donut)
- Calories: ~250 kcal
- Protein: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
- Sodium: 80 mg
- Sugar: 10 g
FAQs
1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast. Use the same amount, and you can skip the activation step. Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients.
2. How do I know when the oil is ready for frying?
The oil is ready when it reaches 175°C (350°F). If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of dough into the oil. It should sizzle and rise to the surface within a few seconds.
3. Can I bake these donuts instead of frying them?
While traditional yeast donuts are fried, you can bake them for a healthier option. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Tips for Making Perfect Yeast Donuts
- Maintain Oil Temperature:
Keep the oil temperature consistent to ensure even cooking and avoid greasy donuts. - Don’t Overcrowd the Pot:
Fry a few donuts at a time to prevent the oil temperature from dropping. - Use Softened Butter:
Soft butter incorporates more easily into the dough, creating a tender texture. - Let the Donuts Cool Slightly:
Allowing the donuts to cool for a few minutes before dusting with powdered sugar helps the sugar stick better. - Experiment with Toppings:
While powdered sugar is a classic choice, try glazing your donuts or adding sprinkles for a fun variation.
Storage Tips
Room Temperature:
Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigeration:
For longer storage, refrigerate the donuts for up to 5 days. Reheat them in a microwave or oven to restore their softness.
Freezing:
Donuts freeze well. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat as needed.
Conclusion
Homemade yeast donuts are a labor of love, but the result is worth every minute. From the moment you bite into their pillowy softness, you’ll be transported to a world of comfort and delight. These donuts are more than just a treat—they’re an experience, a tradition, and a reminder of life’s simple pleasures.
Whether you’re enjoying them with your morning coffee, serving them at a family brunch, or indulging in a midnight snack, their timeless appeal is undeniable. The process of making them, from kneading the dough to dusting them with sugar, adds a personal touch that makes each batch unique.
In a fast-paced world, taking the time to craft something as comforting as yeast donuts reminds us to savor the little moments. They’re a dessert that connects us to our past while continuing to bring joy to our present. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and create a batch of these classic treats. You’ll soon understand why homemade donuts have held a special place in our hearts—and on our plates—for generations.