Donuts (Baked or Fried)

Donuts are one of the most beloved sweet treats around the world, known for their soft, fluffy interior and irresistible sweetness. Whether baked or fried, donuts have a comforting, nostalgic appeal that makes them perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or special occasions. From simple sugar-coated rings to glazed and topped creations, donuts are endlessly customizable and always satisfying.

This recipe gives you the flexibility to choose between baked donuts for a lighter, oven-made option or classic fried donuts for that traditional bakery-style texture. Both versions start with the same soft dough and deliver delicious results. Making donuts at home may seem intimidating, but with this step-by-step method, you’ll find it surprisingly easy and incredibly rewarding.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s versatile and approachable. Whether I’m craving a lighter baked donut or a rich, golden fried one, this single recipe works beautifully for both. The donuts come out soft, tender, and full of flavor, and decorating them with glazes or toppings is always fun and creative.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Works for both baked and fried donuts
• Soft, fluffy texture with classic donut flavor
• Customizable with glazes, sugar, or fillings
• Perfect for beginners and experienced bakers
• Great for breakfast, dessert, or celebrations

Time, Servings, and Nutrition

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Resting Time (if yeast-based): 45–60 minutes
• Cooking Time:
  • Baked: 10–12 minutes
  • Fried: 2–3 minutes per side
• Total Time: About 1½ hours
• Servings: 10–12 donuts

Approximate Calories:

• Baked Donut: 180–200 calories each
• Fried Donut: 250–280 calories each

Course: Breakfast / Dessert
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Donut Dough

• 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup warm milk
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Frying (If Fried)

• Vegetable oil, for deep frying

Optional Toppings

• Powdered sugar
• Cinnamon sugar
• Chocolate glaze
• Vanilla glaze
• Sprinkles

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the donut dough and let it rise until doubled.
2. Roll out dough and cut donut shapes.
3. Choose baking or frying method.
4. Finish with glaze or sugar coating.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prepare Dough: In a large bowl, mix warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla.
2. Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in flour and salt to form a soft dough.
3. Knead: Knead dough for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 45–60 minutes until doubled in size.
5. Shape Donuts: Roll dough out to ½-inch thickness. Cut donuts using a donut cutter or two round cutters.
6. Second Rest: Let shaped donuts rest for 15 minutes.

For Baked Donuts:
7. Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
8. Place donuts on a lined baking sheet.
9. Bake for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden.

For Fried Donuts:
7. Heat oil to 175°C (350°F).
8. Fry donuts 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
9. Drain on paper towels.

10. Finish: Coat warm donuts in sugar or glaze as desired.

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How to Serve This Recipe

Serve donuts warm or at room temperature. They are perfect with coffee, tea, or milk. Arrange them on a platter for brunch gatherings, celebrations, or as a homemade dessert treat.

Recipe Tips

• Do not overheat oil when frying to avoid burning.
• Use a thermometer for accurate frying temperature.
• Let donuts cool slightly before glazing.
• Baked donuts are best brushed with melted butter before topping.
• Fresh donuts taste best the same day.

Variations (Detailed)

1. Chocolate Donuts: Add cocoa powder to the dough and glaze with chocolate icing.
2. Filled Donuts: Skip the hole and fill with jam, custard, or cream.
3. Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: Toss warm donuts in cinnamon sugar.
4. Vegan Donuts: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and egg substitutes.
5. Whole Wheat Donuts: Replace half the flour with whole wheat flour.

Freezing and Storage

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Not recommended as donuts dry out quickly.
• Freezing: Freeze unglazed donuts for up to 2 months. Thaw and warm before glazing.

Special Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Donut cutter
• Baking sheet (for baked donuts)
• Deep pan or fryer (for fried donuts)
• Thermometer (recommended)

Conclusion

Donuts, whether baked or fried, are a timeless treat that brings joy to any occasion. This flexible recipe allows you to enjoy lighter baked donuts or classic fried ones with the same delicious base. Soft, fluffy, and endlessly customizable, homemade donuts are a rewarding and fun baking project that delivers bakery-style results right from your kitchen.