Doughnuts are a timeless indulgence that can turn any ordinary day into something special. Classic sugar coated doughnuts are soft, fluffy, and coated in a sparkling layer of granulated sugar, making them irresistibly delicious. Unlike store-bought versions, homemade doughnuts give you control over the texture, flavor, and freshness, ensuring a delightful treat every time. Perfect with tea, coffee, or as a sweet snack, these doughnuts bring back nostalgic flavors of bakeries and fairs. Making them at home might seem intimidating, but with the right steps and ingredients, you’ll find that they are surprisingly simple to prepare.
Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for dough)
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- Vegetable oil for frying
- ½ cup granulated sugar (for coating)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 tablespoon sugar. Let it sit for 5–7 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, salt, eggs, and butter. Add the yeast mixture and knead into a smooth dough. Cover and let it rise for 1–2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and roll it out to about ½ inch thickness. Cut into doughnut shapes using a doughnut cutter or two round cutters. Place them on a floured surface and cover for 30 minutes to rise again.
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry doughnuts in batches for about 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- While still warm, roll each doughnut in granulated sugar until evenly coated. Serve immediately for the best flavor.
Servings
Makes about 12 doughnuts
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 260
Carbohydrates: 34g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 170mg
Notes
These doughnuts taste best when served fresh and warm. If you prefer a lighter sweetness, reduce the sugar coating. Leftover doughnuts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, though they may lose some softness.
Tips
Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature for even frying. Too hot will burn the doughnuts outside while leaving the inside raw, and too low will make them greasy. Ensure the dough is soft but not sticky for the fluffiest texture. Rolling the dough evenly ensures uniform cooking.
Health Benefits
While sugar coated doughnuts are an indulgent treat, enjoying them in moderation can still fit into a balanced lifestyle. The eggs provide protein, and milk contributes calcium and essential vitamins. Preparing them at home allows you to use fresh ingredients and control oil quality, which makes them better than packaged alternatives. Pairing them with fruit or tea can balance the indulgence with some added nutrition.
Q & A
Q: Can I bake these doughnuts instead of frying?
A: Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, though the texture will be more like bread than fried doughnuts.
Q: How do I keep doughnuts soft for longer?
A: Store them in an airtight container and avoid refrigeration, which makes them dense. Warming them slightly before serving helps restore softness.
Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, but the texture will be denser. A half-and-half mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour works best for a balance of nutrition and fluffiness.
Q: Is it possible to flavor the sugar coating?
A: Absolutely, you can mix cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a little vanilla sugar with the coating to give the doughnuts a unique twist.