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Homemade Fried Donuts Recipe


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4 from 44 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
  • Yield: 10–12 donuts
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Soft and fluffy homemade donuts, fried to golden perfection and coated with sugar or glaze—perfect for breakfast or treats.


Ingredients

Dough

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 tsp)
  • 3/4 cup warm milk (around 110°F/43°C)
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 tsp salt

For Frying and Coating

  • Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil recommended)
  • Optional: sugar or glaze for coating


Instructions

  1. Dissolve yeast: In a bowl, combine the warm milk with the active dry yeast and let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Mix wet ingredients: Add sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt into the yeast mixture and stir to combine thoroughly.
  3. Add flour and form dough: Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour until a dough forms. It should be soft but not sticky.
  4. Knead and rise: Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, approximately 8–10 minutes. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  5. Shape donuts: Roll out the risen dough to about 1/2-inch thickness and use a donut cutter or two round cutters to shape into donut rings. Place the cut donuts on a baking sheet and let them rest for 20 minutes to slightly puff up.
  6. Heat oil: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 175°C (350°F) for frying.
  7. Fry donuts: Carefully fry the donuts in batches, cooking each side for about 1–2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain oil temperature.
  8. Drain and coat: Remove donuts with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. While still warm, coat with granulated sugar or dip in glaze as desired.

Notes

  • Maintain oil temperature around 175°C (350°F) for even frying and to avoid greasy donuts.
  • For a lighter option, donuts can be baked instead of fried (bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes).
  • Ensure that the milk is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
  • If dough is too sticky, lightly flour your hands and surface during kneading.
  • Use fresh yeast for best rising results.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast / Dessert
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American