Name: Homemade Donuts Recipe: Fluffy and Sweet
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 155 min
Ingredients: Donuts:; 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast; 3/4 cup whole milk (warmed); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted); 2 large eggs; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Vegetable oil (for frying); Glaze:; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Optional: Powdered sugar (cinnamon sugar); Suggested Pairings: Coffee (milk)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Homemade Donuts are a classic dessert or breakfast treat, perfect for family gatherings, brunches, or indulgent comfort meals. These fluffy, golden donuts, featuring a tender crumb and a sweet, customizable finish, deliver a warm, satisfying flavor with a light, airy texture. Presented on a white ceramic platter, optionally dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with glaze, this Homemade Donuts recipe offers a sweet, appetizing aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a simple, yeast-based version, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing treat that brings cozy delight to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Donuts:

4 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
3/4 cup whole milk, warmed (110°F/45°C)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 tsp kosher salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
Vegetable oil (for frying, about 6 cups)

For the Glaze:

2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract

Serving:

Optional: Powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, chocolate glaze
Suggested Accompaniments: Coffee, hot chocolate, fresh berries
Suggested Pairings: Iced coffee, milk
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve on a white ceramic platter
Suggested Equipment: Stand mixer with dough hook (optional), large mixing bowl, deep fryer or heavy pot, thermometer, donut cutter or round cutters (3-inch and 1-inch), slotted spoon, wire rack, parchment paper, measuring cups/spoons

Step-by-Step Process

Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, 1 tbsp sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Make Dough: In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine flour, remaining sugar (3 tbsp), salt, melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead by hand for 8–10 minutes or with a dough hook for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Taste and Adjust: Pinch off a small piece of dough, taste, and adjust with a pinch of salt or sugar if needed for balanced flavor.
First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.
Shape Donuts: Punch down dough and roll to 1/2-inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut out donuts using a 3-inch round and a 1-inch cutter for the centers. Cover with a parchment-lined baking sheet, and let rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
Fry Donuts: Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry donuts, 2–3 at a time, for 1–2 minutes per side until golden. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack.
Make Glaze: Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Dip warm donuts in glaze and set on a wire rack to dry.
Serve: Arrange the Homemade Donuts on a white ceramic platter. Optionally dust with powdered sugar or coat with cinnamon sugar. Serve with coffee, hot chocolate, fresh berries, iced coffee, or milk.

Tips for Better Homemade Donuts

Ensure milk is warm (110°F) to activate yeast without killing it.
Taste the dough before shaping to ensure a balanced, slightly sweet flavor; adjust cautiously.
Maintain oil temperature at 350°F to achieve a golden, non-greasy finish.
Roll the dough evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
Present on a white ceramic platter to highlight the golden donuts and sweet toppings.
Make ahead: Shape donuts and refrigerate overnight for the second rise; fry fresh.
Fry in small batches to avoid crowding and maintain oil temperature.
Enhance aesthetic: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze for a sweet, inviting look.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Donuts: Use a gluten-free flour blend and add 1 tsp xanthan gum; ensure yeast is gluten-free certified.
Vegan Donuts: Replace milk with plant-based milk, butter with vegan margarine, eggs with 1/2 cup applesauce, and use plant-based milk in the glaze.
Chocolate Glaze Donuts: Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder to the glaze or melt 1 cup chocolate chips with 1 tbsp oil for a chocolate dip.
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: Skip glaze and toss warm donuts in a mix of 1/2 cup sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon.
Filled Donuts: After frying, use a piping bag to fill with jam, custard, or cream (omit center hole when cutting).
Maple Glaze Donuts: Replace vanilla in glaze with 1 tsp maple extract and 1 tbsp maple syrup.
Yeast-Free Cake Donuts: Use a baking powder-based recipe (2 tsp baking powder instead of yeast) and reduce rising time.
Baked Donuts: Bake at 375°F for 10–12 minutes in a donut pan for a lighter option.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store unglazed donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days; glaze just before serving to prevent sogginess.
Freeze unglazed donuts in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature and glaze or reheat in a 325°F oven for 5 minutes.
Serve warm or at room temperature for the best fluffy, sweet texture.
Use as a dessert or breakfast treat with beverages or fruit.
Pair with iced coffee or milk to complement the sweet, rich flavors.
Present on a white ceramic platter with toppings for an appetizing, indulgent charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 12 servings (1 glazed donut each):

Calories: 280 kcal
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 35mg
Sodium: 220mg
Total Carbohydrates: 42g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 20g
Protein: 5g
Vitamin A: 4% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 0% Daily Value
Calcium: 4% Daily Value
Iron: 8% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (vegan options reduce cholesterol to 0mg). High in calories and sugar; enjoy as an occasional treat.

Conclusion

This Homemade Donuts recipe delivers a fluffy, sweet treat perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into a classic indulgence. Its straightforward preparation and delightful presentation make it a favorite. The tender texture and customizable toppings delight every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing sweetness.