If you are craving the comforting, warm nostalgia of a freshly made treat, this Fried Doughnuts with Sugar Recipe is just what you need. Soft, pillowy doughnuts fried to a perfect golden crisp and then coated in luscious granulated sugar create a classic dessert that always brings a smile. Whether it’s for a special breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a family gathering, these doughnuts are incredibly satisfying and surprisingly simple to craft right in your own kitchen. The magic lies in that tender dough, which yields a delightful texture paired beautifully with the sweet, crunchy sugar coating that melts into every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Fried Doughnuts with Sugar Recipe are straightforward yet incredibly important to nail the perfect texture and flavor. Each item plays a vital role, from the yeast creating airy softness to the butter adding richness and the vanilla bringing a lovely aroma that makes these doughnuts irresistible.
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast: Essential for making the dough rise and become fluffy.
- 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F): Activates the yeast and adds moisture to the dough.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough lightly and feeds the yeast.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Provides richness and tenderness to the dough.
- 2 large eggs: Help bind ingredients and add structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, inviting flavor.
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the dough for that perfect chewy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Provides the crisp golden crust when frying.
- 1 cup granulated sugar for coating: Gives that classic sweet crunch once the doughnuts come out of the oil.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional): Adds a fragrant, spicy touch to the sugar coating if desired.
How to Make Fried Doughnuts with Sugar Recipe
Step 1: Activate the yeast
Begin by dissolving the yeast in warm milk along with a teaspoon of sugar. This step is key because the yeast needs to get bubbly and active to give you airy, soft doughnuts. Let this mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy on top – this beautiful foam is your sign that the yeast is ready to work its magic.
Step 2: Mix the wet ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. This mixture delivers richness, sweetness, and that delicate vanilla aroma that will infuse the doughnuts. After blending these, add the activated yeast mixture and stir gently. Your dough is starting its transformation!
Step 3: Combine dry ingredients and form dough
Gradually stir in the flour and salt. You want to add the flour step by step to avoid a tough dough. Mix until a soft dough forms, one that’s not too sticky but definitely pliable. Then, turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface to knead for 6 to 8 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic – this kneading is crucial to build the right structure for light, fluffy doughnuts.
Step 4: First rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and tuck it into a warm spot. Let it rise for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until it doubles in size. This rising time allows the dough to develop flavor and become wonderfully airy inside your finished doughnuts.
Step 5: Shape the doughnuts
Punch down the risen dough gently to let out the air. Roll it out to around 1/2-inch thickness and cut into rounds using a doughnut cutter or a biscuit cutter. If needed, re-roll scraps until all the dough is used. Place these rounds on a parchment-lined tray, cover lightly, and let them rise again for 30 minutes. This second rise ensures your doughnuts will puff up beautifully in the oil.
Step 6: Fry until golden
Heat 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the doughnuts in batches for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until golden brown and irresistible. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and set them on paper towels briefly to drain excess oil.
Step 7: Sugar coating
While still warm, toss the doughnuts in granulated sugar or a cinnamon-sugar blend if you want that extra hint of spice. The warmth helps the sugar stick perfectly, creating that classic sweet crust we all love so much.
How to Serve Fried Doughnuts with Sugar Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the traditional sugar coating, you can sprinkle additional cinnamon or even a little nutmeg on top to add depth to the flavor. For a more decadent touch, drizzle melted chocolate or a simple vanilla glaze, offering a delightful contrast with the crispy exterior and soft middle.
Side Dishes
These fried doughnuts shine on their own but pair wonderfully with a steaming cup of coffee or chai tea. For breakfast, add a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream to balance sweetness with freshness and creaminess.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving these doughnuts on a festive platter sprinkled with powdered sugar and a few fresh berries can elevate your presentation instantly. For parties, stack them in a tower or offer a dipping station with chocolate sauce, caramel, or fruit preserves to turn ordinary doughnuts into a fun, interactive treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft but remember, doughnuts are always best fresh out of the fryer when their texture is at its peak.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the doughnuts after they have fully cooled. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 1 month. When you’re ready, thaw at room temperature or gently warm them in a low oven.
Reheating
To revive the fried doughnuts’ warmth and crispness, heat them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that delicate crust crisp rather than chewy.
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes! Instant yeast can be used, but you would typically mix it directly with the dry ingredients rather than activating it in warm milk first. Just adjust the method accordingly.
What oil is best for frying doughnuts?
Vegetable oil is ideal because it has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, ensuring your doughnuts fry evenly without burning or imparting unwanted tastes.
Can I add flavors to the dough?
Absolutely. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or lemon zest to the dough can bring a wonderful twist to your doughnuts without overpowering that classic sugar coating.
How thick should I roll the dough?
Rolling the dough to about half an inch thick helps the doughnuts cook evenly while remaining soft inside and crisp outside. Thinner dough might fry too quickly and become tough.
Is it necessary to do the second rise after cutting doughnuts?
Yes, the second rise lets the doughnuts puff up and develop a lighter texture when fried. Skipping this step can result in dense doughnuts that don’t expand properly.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the joy of making and sharing these homemade Fried Doughnuts with Sugar Recipe. The simple ingredients come together to create a sweet treat that’s both nostalgic and comforting, perfect for any occasion that calls for a little indulgence. So grab your mixing bowl and frying pan, and make these delightful doughnuts soon—you’ll be amazed at how easy it is, and everyone will thank you for it!
Print
Fried Doughnuts with Sugar Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1.5 to 2 hours rising time)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 doughnuts
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These fried doughnuts coated in sugar offer a classic, sweet family treat perfect for breakfast or dessert. Soft, fluffy, and golden, they’re made with a yeast-raised dough, fried to perfection, then tossed in fragrant cinnamon sugar for a nostalgic flavor everyone will love.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Frying & Coating
- Vegetable oil for frying (2–3 inches deep)
- 1 cup granulated sugar for coating
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast in 3/4 cup warm milk at 110°F with 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the remaining 1/4 cup sugar, melted butter, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until combined smoothly.
- Combine and form dough: Add the foamy yeast mixture to the wet ingredients and stir. Gradually incorporate 3 1/2 cups flour and 1/2 teaspoon salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for 6–8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until it doubles in size.
- Shape doughnuts: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out to about 1/2 inch thickness. Using a doughnut cutter or round biscuit cutter, cut out doughnut shapes. Re-roll scraps and repeat cutting.
- Second rise: Arrange the doughnuts on a parchment-lined tray, cover lightly, and let them rise again for 30 minutes until puffed.
- Heat oil: In a deep pot, heat 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C), using a thermometer for accuracy.
- Fry the doughnuts: Fry the doughnuts in batches, cooking each side for 1–2 minutes until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pot to maintain temperature.
- Drain and coat: Remove doughnuts with a slotted spoon, drain on paper towels briefly to remove excess oil.
- Sugar coating: While still warm, toss the doughnuts in 1 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon if desired, until well coated.
- Serve fresh: Enjoy the doughnuts fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the dough mix.
- These doughnuts are best enjoyed the same day they are made for optimal freshness.
- If you prefer glazed doughnuts, skip the sugar coating step and dip the fried doughnuts in a simple vanilla glaze instead.
