Best Classic Sugar-Coated Donuts (Golden, Fluffy, and Sweet)
Few things rival the joy of biting into a fresh, warm sugar-coated donut—soft inside, golden outside, and covered in that perfect crunchy-sweet sugar layer. This classic recipe keeps things simple: no yeast, no waiting, just a quick dough, a hot fry, and a sugar roll.
These donuts are crisp on the outside, pillowy inside, and taste just like childhood fairs, corner bakeries, and cozy weekend breakfasts.
Why I Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a fast and fail-proof donut recipe, this is the one. It’s:
🍯 Lightly sweetened with just the right crunch
⏱️ Quick—no yeast, no proofing
👩🍳 Beginner-friendly and fun to make
🍩 Perfect for sharing, snacking, or gifting
✨ Easily dressed up with cinnamon, nutmeg, or glazes
These are just as fun and satisfying as Rainbow Sprinkle Cookies or Easter Cookies, but with that fresh-fried indulgence that hits just right.
🛒 Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Extra sugar, for coating
🥄 Ingredient Notes & Tips
- Flour: Use all-purpose for best texture.
- Sugar: White granulated sugar gives that classic coating crunch.
- Milk: Whole milk for richness, but 2% works too.
- Butter: Adds flavor and softness to the dough.
- Optional: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for depth.
👨🍳 How to Make Classic Sugar-Coated Donuts
1. Make the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder. In a separate bowl, mix milk, egg, and melted butter. Pour wet into dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
Knead on a floured surface for about 2–3 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. Shape the Donuts
Roll out dough to about ½-inch thickness. Use a donut cutter (or two round cutters) to cut out donuts and holes.
Re-roll scraps and repeat until all dough is used.
3. Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a heavy-bottomed pot. Carefully add donuts in batches, cooking 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown. Don’t overcrowd.
Use a slotted spoon to remove and drain on paper towels.
4. Coat in Sugar
While still warm, toss each donut in a bowl of sugar until well coated. Let cool slightly and serve!
🔥 Pro Tips for Success
- Keep oil temp consistent—too cool = greasy, too hot = burnt outsides.
- Toss while warm—the sugar sticks best just out of the fryer.
- Use a thermometer to monitor oil (this makes a big difference).
- Add cinnamon to the sugar for a churro-style twist.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
These donuts are best fresh, but you can get creative:
- Dip in chocolate sauce or glaze
- Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup
- Serve alongside coffee, hot cocoa, or No-Bake Oreo Cream Pie
- Stack them tall on a party platter with Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs
For a snack board vibe, add a side of No-Bake Monster Cookie Energy Balls.
🧊 Storage & Leftovers
To Store:
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
To Reheat:
Pop in the microwave for 10–12 seconds to bring back the warmth.
To Freeze:
Let cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer.
🍰 More Treats You’ll Love
- Rainbow Sprinkle Cookies
- Easter Cookies
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs
- No-Bake Oreo Cream Pie
- No-Bake Monster Cookie Energy Balls
📝 Final Thoughts
These Classic Sugar-Coated Donuts are a perfect reminder that simple ingredients and a hot pan of oil can create pure magic. Sweet, soft, golden, and totally nostalgic—they’re the kind of treat that brings smiles every time.
Try them out and tag @Chefmaniac when you make a batch. We’d love to see your sugar-dusted creations!
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