Homemade fried donuts are a classic and indulgent treat that bring warmth and sweetness to any kitchen. These delightful pastries are made from a sweet, yeasted dough that’s deep-fried to golden perfection and then typically coated with sugar or glazed with a variety of flavors. The joy of making donuts at home lies in the ability to customize them to your liking, experimenting with fillings, toppings, and shapes. From the traditional ring donuts to filled delights bursting with jam or cream, homemade fried donuts offer a personal touch to this beloved confectionery, making them a special treat for family gatherings or simply to enjoy with a morning cup of coffee.

FAQs about Homemade Fried Donuts

1. What’s the secret to fluffy and light donuts? The key is in the dough’s proper proofing. Allowing the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free environment ensures that the donuts will be airy and light.

2. Can I fill my donuts with different flavors? Absolutely! Donuts can be filled with a variety of flavors, including jam, chocolate, custard, or cream. The only limit is your imagination.

3. How can I tell when the oil is at the right temperature for frying? The ideal frying temperature is between 350°F to 375°F (about 175°C to 190°C). A cooking thermometer can help, or you can test the oil with a small piece of dough; it should sizzle without burning quickly.

4. Can homemade fried donuts be made healthier? While fried donuts are inherently indulgent, you can opt for high-quality ingredients or experiment with frying oils that have a higher smoke point and healthier fat profile, like canola or coconut oil.

5. How long do homemade fried donuts last? For the best taste and texture, homemade fried donuts should be enjoyed the same day they are made. However, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days.

6. Is there a vegan version of fried donuts? Yes, you can make vegan donuts by substituting dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives and using an egg replacer. The results can be just as delicious.

Conclusion

Homemade fried donuts are a delightful treat that offers a sense of accomplishment along with delicious results. The process of making, frying, and decorating donuts can be a fun and creative activity, perfect for engaging with family or friends. With endless possibilities for customization, every batch can be a new adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at frying for the first time, the journey to perfect homemade fried donuts is sure to be as rewarding as the taste of your freshly made creations.

Homemade Fried Donuts

Author: Ashley

Print Recipe

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup warm milk
1/4 cup sugar
2 teaspoons active dry yeast

2 large eggs, beaten
1/2 cup melted butter
4 cups all-purpose flour (more for dusting)

1/2 teaspoon salt
Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Glaze:

2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Activate Yeast: Mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let sit until frothy (about 5-10 minutes).
Make Dough: In a large bowl, combine the yeast mixture with eggs, melted butter, flour, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms.
Knead: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic.

First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Shape Donuts: Roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness. Cut out donuts with a donut cutter or round cookie cutter and a smaller cutter for the holes.
Second Rise: Place shaped donuts on a floured surface, cover, and let rise until puffed up, about 30 minutes.

Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry donuts in batches until golden brown on each side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Glaze: Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze. Dip or drizzle over warm donuts.

Notes

Resting the Dough: Ensure the dough is adequately rested and risen, which is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.

Oil Temperature: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is vital. Too hot, and the donuts will burn on the outside while remaining raw inside; too cool, and they will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
Experiment with Toppings: Beyond traditional sugar and glazes, donuts can be topped with crushed nuts, candy pieces, or even bacon bits for a savory twist.
Uniformity: For evenly cooked donuts, try to keep them uniform in size and thickness. A donut cutter can be a handy tool for this purpose.