Perfect Sugar Donuts Recipe

There’s nothing quite like biting into a freshly fried, fluffy, and perfectly sweet sugar donut. If you’re looking to recreate this classic bakery treat at home, this Perfect Sugar Donuts Recipe is for you. It’s simple, straightforward, and guarantees soft, airy donuts with a crisp sugary coating every time. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to achieve bakery-quality donuts from the comfort of your own kitchen.

Why Make These Perfect Sugar Donuts?

These sugar donuts are the ideal treat for any occasion. They’re perfect for breakfast, a mid-day snack, or a delightful dessert. Unlike store-bought options, these homemade donuts have a fresh, warm texture and the perfect balance of sweetness. Plus, making them at home allows you to enjoy the wonderful aroma of freshly fried donuts filling your kitchen. This recipe is great for anyone who loves a classic, simple donut that’s light, fluffy, and coated in sugar.

Ingredients for Perfect Sugar Donuts

To make these delicious sugar donuts, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup whole milk, warm (about 108°F or 42°C)
• 2½ tsp dry active yeast
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 3½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (at room temperature)
• 1 large egg
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Corn oil (for frying)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (for coating the donuts)

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Stand mixer with a dough hook attachment
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Rolling pin
• Biscuit cutter or glass cup (3-inch)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Heavy-bottomed pot
• Instant-read thermometer
• Large slotted spoon
• Paper towels

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Creating the Yeast Mixture: How to Activate the Yeast for Fluffy Donuts

Begin by activating the yeast to ensure your donuts turn out light and fluffy. In a large measuring cup, combine 1 cup of warm whole milk (heated to about 108°F or 42°C), 2½ teaspoons of dry active yeast, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Whisk the mixture until the yeast and sugar dissolve, then let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures that your yeast is active and will help the dough rise properly.

2. Preparing the Donut Dough: Combining Ingredients in a Stand Mixer

Next, gather all the dough ingredients. In the bowl of your stand mixer, add 3½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter (at room temperature), 1 large egg, 2 large egg yolks, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and the prepared yeast mixture. Attach the dough hook and start mixing on low speed until the ingredients are combined and no dry flour remains. Increase the speed to high and mix for 10-15 minutes until the dough becomes smooth, slightly sticky, and tacky to the touch.

3. Letting the Dough Rise: Tips for Achieving the Perfect Rise

Once the dough is mixed, transfer it to a large, greased bowl (using 1-2 teaspoons of olive oil to grease the bowl). Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and allow the dough to rise in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours, or until it doubles or even triples in size. The more the dough rises, the fluffier your donuts will be.

4. Shaping the Donuts: Rolling, Cutting, and Preparing for Frying

After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and use a rolling pin to roll the dough to about 1/2 inch thick. Use a 3-inch biscuit cutter or a glass cup to cut out donut shapes. Gather the scraps, re-roll them, and cut out more donuts. You should have about 16 donuts from this recipe. Place the cut-out donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover with a thin kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes.

5. Frying the Donuts: Achieving Golden Perfection

In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat about 2 inches of corn oil to 340°F (170°C). Use an instant-read thermometer to monitor the oil temperature. Fry each donut for approximately 2 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove the donuts with a large slotted spoon and transfer them to a baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

6. Coating the Donuts in Sugar: The Final Touch for Sweetness

While the donuts are still warm, roll them in a bowl of granulated sugar. 1 cup of sugar should be sufficient for coating all the donuts. Ensure each donut is well-coated for that classic sugar donut flavor.

Tips for Making the Best Sugar Donuts

• Monitor Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil at the right temperature is crucial. Too hot, and the donuts will burn on the outside while staying raw inside; too cool, and they will absorb too much oil.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: Mix the dough just until it is smooth and slightly sticky. Overmixing can make the donuts tough.
• Use Fresh Yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh and active to ensure the donuts rise properly.

Serving and Presentation Ideas for Sugar Donuts

Serve these donuts warm for the best texture and flavor. You can present them on a tiered dessert stand, alongside fresh fruits or a hot beverage. To make them extra special, drizzle with chocolate or a simple glaze for added sweetness.

Storing Leftover Donuts

To keep your donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, warm them in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in an oven at 350°F for a few minutes.

Variations and Swaps

• Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: Mix 1 cup of granulated sugar with 1-2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon for a delicious twist.
• Filled Donuts: Instead of cutting out the donut holes, keep the donuts whole and fill them with your favorite jam, custard, or cream after frying.
• Glazed Donuts: Instead of coating with sugar, dip the donuts in a simple powdered sugar glaze while they are still warm.

FAQs about Sugar Donuts

Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
A: Yes, you can use instant yeast. However, reduce the amount to 2 teaspoons and skip the step of frothing it in milk.

Q: Why did my donuts turn out too oily?
A: This usually happens if the oil temperature is too low. Make sure to maintain the oil at 340°F for perfect frying.

Q: Can I bake the donuts instead of frying them?
A: Yes, but the texture will differ. Bake at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.

Conclusion

These perfect sugar donuts are a delightful treat that’s easy to make and loved by everyone. Try out this recipe and bring the joy of homemade donuts to your table. Don’t forget to share your results with us and subscribe for more delicious recipes!

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