These sugar-coated donuts are a timeless indulgence—pillowy soft on the inside, golden and lightly crisp on the outside, and dusted with a sweet layer of sugar that melts on the tongue. Made with a simple yeast dough enriched with milk and butter, they rise beautifully and fry to perfection. Whether served with tea, shared at a gathering, or enjoyed fresh from the pan, these donuts are a celebration of homemade comfort. The recipe is easy to follow, budget-friendly, and adaptable for wellness-conscious or inclusive variations.
🧂 INGREDIENTS:
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ¼ cup powdered milk (optional, for richness)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup warm milk (not hot)
- 1 egg
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil (canola or sunflower), for deep frying
For Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- Optional: cinnamon or cardamom for spiced sugar
Wellness Tip: Use whole wheat flour for added fiber, or coconut sugar for a lower glycemic coating.
👨🍳 INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar.
- Sprinkle yeast over the top and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
Pro Tip: If the mixture doesn’t foam, your yeast may be inactive—start over with fresh yeast.
2. Make the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, powdered milk, and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture, egg, butter, and vanilla extract.
- Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Technique Tip: You can knead by hand or use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
3. First Rise
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
- Let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Eco Tip: Use a reusable cloth cover or beeswax wrap instead of plastic.
4. Shape the Donuts
- Punch down the dough and roll out to about ½ inch thickness.
- Use a donut cutter or two round cutters to shape.
- Place shaped donuts on a floured tray and cover loosely.
- Let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
Flavor Note: You can also shape into balls for filled donuts later.
5. Fry to Perfection
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 170–180°C (340–355°F).
- Fry donuts in batches, turning once, until golden brown (about 1–2 minutes per side).
- Drain on paper towels or a wire rack.
Safety Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—this keeps oil temperature stable.
6. Coat in Sugar
- While still warm, roll donuts in granulated sugar or spiced sugar mix.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Serving Tip: Pair with chai, coffee, or a turmeric latte for a wellness twist.
🌱 OPTIONAL ADAPTATIONS:
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk and butter, and replace egg with 1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water.
- Spiced Variation: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the dough for aromatic depth.
- Filled Donuts: Inject with jam, custard, or aloe vera-infused cream for a creative twist.