There’s nothing quite like warm Homemade Sugar Donuts fresh from the kitchen. These soft, fluffy donuts are coated in a sweet layer of sugar and have that classic bakery-style texture everyone loves. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon treat with coffee, this recipe is simple enough for beginners and delicious enough to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Donuts
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ¾ cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Sugar Coating
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Add the eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture.
Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Knead
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Donuts
Punch down the dough and roll it out to about ½-inch thickness.
Cut out donuts using a donut cutter or two round cutters of different sizes.
Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 5: Fry
Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
Fry the donuts in batches for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown.
Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 6: Coat with Sugar
While still warm, roll each donut in granulated sugar or cinnamon sugar until evenly coated.
Tips for Perfect Donuts
- Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature.
- Don’t overcrowd the fryer.
- Coat the donuts while warm so the sugar sticks better.
- Save the donut holes and fry them too.
Optional Variations
Vanilla Sugar Donuts
Add the seeds of one vanilla bean to the sugar coating.
Lemon Sugar Donuts
Mix 1 teaspoon lemon zest into the sugar.
Filled Sugar Donuts
Skip cutting the center hole and fill with jam, custard, or chocolate after frying.
Storage
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For the best flavor and texture, enjoy them the same day they’re made.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Rise Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 donuts
Soft, golden, and coated in sparkling sugar, these Homemade Sugar Donuts are a classic treat that brings bakery-quality goodness right to your kitchen. 🍩✨☕
