Soft & Fluffy Homemade Donuts

🍩 Soft & Fluffy Homemade Donuts

These Soft & Fluffy Homemade Donuts are light, airy, and deliciously golden on the outside with a tender, pillowy interior. Rolled in sugar while still warm, they’re a classic homemade treat that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack.

Yield: About 30–31 large donuts
Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus rising time)
Cook Time: 20–30 minutes
Total Time: About 3 hours

Ingredients

  • 1 kg (8 cups) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
  • 4 large eggs
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 15 g (2¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • Vegetable oil or shortening, for frying
  • Granulated sugar, for coating

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine:

  • Warm milk
  • 1 tablespoon of the sugar (taken from the total amount)
  • Active dry yeast

Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes, or until it becomes foamy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, add the flour and make a well in the center.

Add:

  • Eggs
  • Remaining sugar
  • Salt
  • Softened butter
  • Activated yeast mixture

Mix until a dough begins to form.

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly sticky but easy to handle.

Step 3: First Rise

Shape the dough into a ball.

Place it in a lightly greased bowl, turning once to coat.

Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.

Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Donuts

Punch down the risen dough.

Roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about ½ inch (1.5 cm) thick.

Cut out donuts using a donut cutter or two round cutters (one large and one small for the center hole).

Gather and reroll any scraps to make more donuts.

Place the shaped donuts on baking sheets lined with parchment paper.

Cover with a clean towel and let them rise again for 30 minutes.

Step 5: Fry the Donuts

Heat vegetable oil or shortening in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).

Carefully fry the donuts in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot.

Cook for about 1–2 minutes per side, or until they are evenly golden brown.

Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate or a wire rack to drain.

Step 6: Coat with Sugar

While the donuts are still warm, roll them generously in granulated sugar until evenly coated.

Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Perfect Homemade Donuts

  • Make sure the milk is warm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast.
  • Knead the dough well for a soft, fluffy texture.
  • Don’t skip the second rise—it helps create light, airy donuts.
  • Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) for even cooking.
  • Fry only a few donuts at a time so the oil temperature stays consistent.
  • Coat the donuts in sugar while they’re still warm so it sticks well.

Optional Toppings

Instead of plain sugar, try:

  • Cinnamon sugar
  • Powdered sugar
  • Chocolate glaze
  • Vanilla glaze
  • Maple glaze
  • Caramel drizzle
  • Sprinkles
  • Chopped nuts
  • Filled with pastry cream, jam, chocolate, or dulce de leche

Storage

Store the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

For the freshest flavor and texture, enjoy them the same day they’re made.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooled, uncoated donuts for up to 2 months.

Thaw at room temperature, warm briefly if desired, and coat with sugar or glaze before serving.

These Soft & Fluffy Homemade Donuts are wonderfully light, golden, and irresistible. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee, a glass of milk, or shared with family and friends, they’re a timeless homemade treat that’s always worth making. 🍩✨

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