Easy Homemade Donuts – Fluffy, Sweet, and Ready to Fry

June 4, 2025

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Easy Homemade Donuts – Fluffy, Sweet, and Ready to Fry
How to Make the Best Classic Donuts at Home
Foolproof Donut Recipe with Cinnamon Sugar or Glaze
From Scratch Donuts You Can Make Today – No Fancy Tools Needed
The Only Easy Donut Recipe You’ll Ever Need

Easy Homemade Donuts: A Simple, Sweet Recipe Anyone Can Master

There’s something magical about homemade donuts. The warm, golden dough, that soft and pillowy interior, and the comforting aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafting through your kitchen—this is pure joy in edible form. Whether you’re craving a nostalgic bite or want to impress guests with your baking skills, these easy donuts are just the treat.

Why I Love This Recipe

This donut recipe is everything I love in a homemade dessert—minimal fuss, maximum flavor. You don’t need any fancy equipment—though a stand mixer helps—and the ingredients are pantry staples. The dough rises beautifully, fries to perfection, and you get to choose your finish: cinnamon-sugar or a sweet glaze.

If you’re already a fan of easy, satisfying desserts like these Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups or Brownie Batter Dip, these donuts will be right up your alley.

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons butter (softened)
7 grams (about 2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
5 tablespoons sugar (plus extra for rolling)
1 cup lukewarm milk
1 egg
½ teaspoon salt
Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
½ tablespoon cinnamon powder

Ingredient Notes & Easy Swaps

Butter: Unsalted is best. You can use margarine, but the flavor won’t be as rich.
Milk: Whole milk makes the dough richer, but any milk will work.
Yeast: Active dry yeast works beautifully. Instant yeast? Skip the bloom step.
No cinnamon sugar? Try powdered sugar or dip in a simple glaze with powdered sugar and milk.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in a bit of lukewarm water (not hot!). Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. Make the Dough

In a large bowl (or stand mixer), mix the flour and bloomed yeast. Add the milk, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and the egg. Stir until it comes together. Add the salt and knead for about 3 minutes until the dough is smooth.

3. Add Butter and Knead Again

Add the softened butter. The dough may get a bit slippery at first—just keep kneading until it becomes glossy and elastic.

4. First Rise

Shape the dough into a ball, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise for about 1 hour in a warm spot. It should double in size.

5. Shape the Donuts

Divide the dough into equal pieces, shape into balls, or get creative and braid them! Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

6. Second Rise

Let the shaped dough rise again for at least 30 minutes. They should puff up visibly—this helps create that light, airy texture inside.

7. Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat oil in a deep pan (around 350°F/175°C). Fry donuts 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the pan.

8. Coat or Glaze

Drain on paper towels. Roll in a mixture of 3 tablespoons sugar + ½ tablespoon cinnamon, or dip in your favorite glaze.

Tips for Success

Proofing tip: If your kitchen is cold, place the dough in an oven with the light on—no heat.
Oil control: Use a slotted spoon and paper towels to avoid greasy donuts.
Test before frying: Fry one donut first to check oil temperature and dough texture.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These donuts are best enjoyed warm, ideally with:

A glass of cold milk
A mug of rich hot chocolate
Or paired with a fun treat like this Easy Ice Cream Sandwich Cake for a party-ready dessert bar.

For seasonal fun, consider serving alongside these Caramel Apple Nachos or with bite-sized Chocolate Chip Cookie Bitesfor a snack spread.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezing: Freeze uncoated donuts in a single layer. Reheat and coat before serving.
Reheating: Use a microwave for 10–15 seconds or a quick toast in the oven.

More Recipes You’ll Love

If you loved this donut recipe, check out:

Brownie Batter Dip – A chocolate lover’s dream.
Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups – Perfect for cozy season.
Ice Cream Sandwich Cake – No-bake magic in layers.
[Caramel Apple Nachos](https://chefmaniac.com/these-caramel-apple-nachos-are-my-favorite-quick-fall-dessert