Sugar donuts are a delightful treat that can easily be made at home. This simple recipe utilizes basic ingredients like flour, milk, yeast, and sugar, resulting in a wonderfully indulgent snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Once you try this recipe, you may find it hard to use another!
Ingredients
To create these mouthwatering sugar donuts, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2½ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons warm water
- ½ teaspoon granulated sugar
- 3¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm whole milk
- 2 ounces unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For Coating:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Proof the Yeast
Start by activating your yeast. In a tall glass, combine 2 tablespoons of warm water, ½ teaspoon of sugar, and 2½ teaspoons of active dry yeast. Stir the mixture gently, then let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes. You should see it rise and become foamy. If the yeast does not foam, it’s best to discard it and start with a fresh batch, as this indicates that the yeast may be inactive.
Step 2: Prepare the Donut Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine 3¼ cups of flour, 1 cup of warm milk, 2 ounces of room temperature butter, 3 egg yolks, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and the proofed yeast mixture. Using a mixer with a dough hook attachment, mix on low speed until the dough starts to come together—this should take about 2 minutes. Gradually increase the speed and knead the dough for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. The dough should become slightly tacky to the touch.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
Once the dough is ready, form it into a ball. Lightly grease a large bowl to proof the dough. Place the ball of dough back into the greased bowl and lightly grease the top of the dough to prevent a crust from forming.
Step 4: Proof the Dough
Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and place it in a warm, draft-free area. Allow the dough to rise for 1 to 2 hours, or until it has at least doubled in size. The rising time may vary depending on the ambient temperature.
Step 5: Prepare Parchment Paper
While the dough is rising, cut out 5″x5″ squares of parchment or wax paper. These will be used to place the cut donuts on before frying.
Step 6: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air. Transfer it to a greased work surface (you can use non-stick spray). Roll the dough out to a thickness of ½ inch. Use a 3-inch round cookie cutter to cut out as many rounds as possible. Place each dough disk on a piece of prepared parchment paper. Continue to re-roll and cut out additional rounds until all the dough is used.
Step 7: Second Proofing
Cover the cut donuts with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for an additional 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until they have doubled in size again. This step is crucial for achieving light and fluffy donuts.
Step 8: Fry the Donuts
In a heavy pot (cast iron works well), heat 1½ inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop several donuts into the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd the pot. Fry them until they are golden brown, about 1 to 2 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to flip them halfway through cooking.
Step 9: Drain the Donuts
Once fried, transfer the donuts to a plate lined with paper towels or a wire rack to drain excess oil. Allow them to cool for a few minutes.
Step 10: Coat the Donuts
Once the donuts are cool enough to handle, roll them in granulated sugar or powdered sugar to coat them. The sugar adds a sweet crunch that perfectly complements the soft, fluffy interior.
Enjoy!
These simple homemade sugar donuts are sure to be a hit with family and friends. They are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any time you crave something sweet. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a batch of donuts that will impress everyone.
Variations and Tips
Once you master this basic sugar donut recipe, you can experiment with various flavors and toppings. Here are a few ideas:
- Glazed Donuts: Instead of rolling in sugar, make a simple glaze with powdered sugar and milk. Dip the cooled donuts in the glaze and let them set on a wire rack.
- Chocolate Donuts: Add cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolatey twist. You can also dip the finished donuts in melted chocolate for an extra treat.
- Spiced Donuts: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, comforting flavor.
- Stuffed Donuts: Fill the centers with jam, cream, or chocolate before frying for a delightful surprise.
Conclusion
Making homemade sugar donuts is a fun and rewarding experience. This recipe provides the perfect foundation for creating delicious treats that can be enjoyed by all. Once you’ve made your first batch, you’ll likely find yourself returning to this recipe again and again. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the wonderful process of creating these delightful donuts in the comfort of your own kitchen!
