Fried donuts are a timeless treat that brings joy with every bite. Whether you crave a classic sugar-coated donut or a twist on the traditional recipe, making fried donuts at home is easier than you think. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, with tips and tricks to help you create perfect, golden, fluffy donuts that will impress your family and friends.
What You’ll Need to Make Fried Donuts
Before diving into the recipe, gather these basic ingredients:
– Milk (warm, about 100°F)
– Active dry yeast
– Granulated sugar
– Melted butter
– Salt
– All-purpose flour
– Cooking oil (for frying, such as vegetable or canola oil)
– Optional toppings: granulated sugar, powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, or glaze
You’ll also need some kitchen tools like a stand mixer or mixing bowl, donut cutter (or round cutters), a deep pan for frying, a thermometer to check oil temperature, and a cooling rack.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Fried Donuts
1. Activate the Yeast
Start by warming your milk to about 100°F — warm enough to activate the yeast but not so hot that it kills it. Pour half the milk into a mixing bowl, add the yeast and a teaspoon of sugar, then stir gently. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly, signaling the yeast is alive and ready to work.
2. Make the Dough
Add the remaining milk, melted butter, granulated sugar, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Mix everything until combined. Gradually add more flour (about 1/4 to 1/2 cup) until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl and feels tacky but not sticky. Knead the dough for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Let the Dough Rise
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. This step is crucial for fluffy, airy donuts.
4. Shape the Donuts
Once risen, turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently press it into a rectangle and use a donut cutter to cut out your donuts. Don’t waste the scraps — roll them into small balls for donut holes! Cover the cut donuts with a cloth or plastic wrap and let them rise again for 30 to 45 minutes.
5. Heat the Oil
Pour 2 to 3 inches of oil into a deep pan and heat it to 350°F. A thermometer is the best way to ensure the oil is at the right temperature — hot enough to cook the donuts through without burning the outside.
6. Fry the Donuts
Carefully lower the donuts into the hot oil, frying a few at a time to avoid crowding. Fry for about 1 minute on each side or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to flip and remove them from the oil.
7. Drain and Coat
Place the fried donuts on a cooling rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. While still warm, toss them in granulated sugar or your favorite coating. You can also glaze or dust them with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
Tips for Perfect Fried Donuts
– Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil steady at 350°F is key. Too hot, and the donuts burn outside but stay raw inside; too cool, and they absorb too much oil and become greasy.
– Don’t Overcrowd: Fry only a few donuts at a time to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
– Gentle Handling: When shaping and twisting dough (if making twisted donuts), be gentle to avoid tearing.
– Rest the Dough: Allowing the dough to rise twice ensures light, fluffy donuts.
– Use a Cooling Rack: This lets excess oil drip off, keeping your donuts crisp and less greasy.
Variations to Try
– Old-Fashioned No-Yeast Donuts: Made with sour cream and baking soda, these donuts are quick to prepare and have a tender crumb. Roll the dough into strips, twist, and fry until golden. Finish with a dusting of powdered sugar for a nostalgic treat.
– Cake Donuts: These are denser and richer, often made with buttermilk and baking powder. They fry up crispy on the outside and soft inside, perfect for glazing or cinnamon sugar coating.
– Donut Holes: Use leftover dough scraps, roll into balls, and fry for bite-sized delights. They cook faster and are perfect for dipping in chocolate or glaze.
Why Make Fried Donuts at Home?
Making fried donuts from scratch is not only satisfying but allows you to customize flavors and toppings. You control the ingredients, avoid preservatives, and enjoy fresh, warm donuts anytime. Plus, the aroma of frying dough is a wonderful invitation to gather around the kitchen and share a sweet moment.
Fried donuts are a delicious way to treat yourself and loved ones. With a little patience and these simple steps, you’ll master the art of making perfect fried donuts that rival any bakery.
Enjoy your homemade fried donuts fresh and warm for the best taste and texture!