If you’re craving fresh, fluffy donuts but don’t want to fuss with complicated dough recipes or yeast rising times, canned biscuits are your new best friend. Yes, you heard that right! You can turn a simple can of refrigerated biscuit dough into warm, golden, homemade donuts in just minutes. This easy hack is perfect for busy mornings, last-minute treats, or a fun cooking activity with the family. Let’s dive into how you can make donuts out of canned biscuits that taste just like the real deal.
Why Use Canned Biscuits for Donuts?
Canned biscuits are pre-made dough that’s soft, flaky, and ready to go. They save you the time and effort of making dough from scratch, and when fried, they puff up beautifully to create light, airy donuts. Plus, the convenience means you don’t need any special ingredients or equipment—just oil for frying and your favorite toppings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– 1 can of refrigerated biscuit dough (like Pillsbury Original Biscuits)
– Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 to 3 inches deep)
– Toppings of your choice:
– Cinnamon sugar (mix 3 tablespoons sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon)
– Powdered sugar glaze (powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk)
– Melted butter (optional, for coating before toppings)
– Sprinkles, chocolate, or frosting for extra fun
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Donuts from Canned Biscuits
1. Prepare Your Workspace and Oil
Pour vegetable oil into a deep, heavy-duty pot or skillet about 2 to 3 inches deep. Heat the oil to around 350°F to 360°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, test by dropping a small piece of dough in the oil—it should bubble and rise to the surface quickly without burning.
2. Cut the Donut Shape
Open your can of biscuits and separate them on a clean surface. Using a small round cookie cutter, a bottle cap, or even a soda can lid, cut a hole in the center of each biscuit to create the classic donut shape. Don’t toss the centers—you’ll fry those too as donut holes!
3. Fry the Donuts
Carefully place the donut dough pieces into the hot oil, working in small batches of 2 or 3 to avoid overcrowding. Fry each side for about 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown. Use tongs to flip them gently. The donut holes will cook faster, so keep an eye on them.
4. Drain and Cool
Remove the fried donuts and holes with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Let them cool for a few minutes so they’re safe to handle.
5. Add Your Favorite Toppings
– Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: Dip each donut in melted butter, then roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture for a sweet, classic flavor.
– Glazed Donuts: Whisk together powdered sugar, a splash of vanilla extract, and a little milk until smooth. Dip the donuts while still slightly warm, then let the glaze set.
– Fun Variations: Add sprinkles, drizzle chocolate, or frost with your favorite icing for a personalized touch.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your homemade canned biscuit donuts fresh and warm. They’re perfect for breakfast, dessert, or anytime you want a quick sweet treat.
Tips for Perfect Biscuit Donuts
– Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying to prevent greasy, soggy donuts.
– Don’t overcrowd the pan; frying in small batches ensures even cooking.
– Use a non-stick surface or parchment paper to roll and cut dough if needed.
– Try different toppings to keep things exciting—think powdered sugar, chocolate glaze, or even savory options like cinnamon and sugar with a sprinkle of sea salt.
Fun Twist: Biscuit Donut Twists
If you want to get creative, roll out the biscuit dough, cut into strips, twist two strips together, and fry them just like the donut rings. These twists are fun to make and delicious to eat, especially when coated in cinnamon sugar or glaze.
Making donuts out of canned biscuits is a fantastic shortcut that yields delicious results without the fuss. Whether you’re cooking with kids or just want a quick homemade treat, this method is sure to satisfy your donut cravings in no time. So grab that can of biscuits, heat up the oil, and get frying!
Treat yourself to warm, fluffy donuts today — no yeast, no waiting, just pure donut joy!