The Best Classic Sugar-Coated Donuts
By Jason Griffith
There is something undeniably nostalgic about the smell of fresh dough hitting hot oil. Whether it’s a crisp autumn morning or a lazy Sunday brunch, a warm, sugar-coated donut is the ultimate comfort food. While many people think deep-frying at home is intimidating, this recipe proves that you can achieve bakery-quality results right in your own kitchen with just a few pantry staples.
These donuts are light, airy, and finished with a crunchy sugar coating that melts in your mouth. They aren’t overly complicated—no yeast or long rising times required—making them the perfect project for a family breakfast or a sweet midnight snack.
Why I Love This Recipe
I’ve tried a lot of donut recipes over the years, from heavy cake versions to complex brioche styles. What makes this particular recipe my favorite is the simplicity. It uses a straightforward dough that is easy to handle and fries up beautifully golden in minutes.
The texture is the perfect middle ground: slightly crisp on the outside thanks to the sugar crystals, but soft and tender on the inside. Plus, since you’re making them at home, you get to eat them while they are still warm—the absolute best way to experience a donut!
Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups (provides the perfect structure)
- Granulated Sugar: 1/2 cup (for the dough) plus extra for the final coating
- Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon (our leavening agent for that necessary lift)
- Milk: 1/2 cup (adds moisture and richness)
- Egg: 1 large (binds the dough together)
- Melted Butter: 2 tablespoons (for a tender crumb)
- Oil for Frying: Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil (something with a high smoke point)
Swaps and Notes
- Dairy-Free: You can easily swap the milk for almond or oat milk and use melted coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute.
- Spiced Sugar: If you want to level up the flavor, mix a teaspoon of cinnamon into your coating sugar for a classic cinnamon-sugar finish.
- Donut Holes: Don’t throw away the centers! Fry the “holes” for about 60-90 seconds for a bite-sized treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and baking powder. Create a well in the center and pour in the milk, egg, and melted butter.
- Knead: Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently for about 1-2 minutes until the dough is smooth and no longer sticky.
- Shape the Donuts: Roll the dough out to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a donut cutter (or a large glass and a small bottle cap for the center) to cut out your circles.
- Heat the Oil: Fill a heavy-bottomed pot with about 2 inches of oil. Heat it to 350∘F (175∘C). Use a thermometer if possible; if the oil is too cold, the donuts will be greasy; if it’s too hot, they’ll burn before the inside is cooked.
- Fry: Carefully drop 2-3 donuts into the oil at a time. Fry for about 2 minutes per side or until they reach a beautiful golden brown color.
- The Coating: Remove the donuts with a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels for just 30 seconds. While they are still hot, toss them in a bowl of extra sugar until fully coated.
Tips for Success
- Temperature Control: Keep an eye on your oil temperature. If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of scrap dough in; if it sizzles and rises to the top immediately, you’re ready to go.
- Don’t Over-Knead: Just like biscuits or pancakes, over-working the dough can lead to a tough donut. Knead just until smooth.
- Coat While Hot: The sugar won’t stick well if the donuts have cooled down completely. A quick drain to remove excess oil is all you need before hitting the sugar bowl.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These donuts are best served immediately with a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk. If you’re looking for something more refreshing, they pair beautifully with my Blueberry Lemonade.
For a full “brunch at home” experience, you could serve these alongside a savory 3-Ingredient Egg Wrap to balance out the sweetness!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 12g
Storage and Leftover Tips
While these are best eaten fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To revive them, pop them in the microwave for 5-10 seconds to soften the dough back up. I don’t recommend freezing sugar-coated donuts, as the sugar tends to weep and get sticky when thawed.
More Recipes You Will Love
If you enjoyed this sweet treat, check out these other favorites from the kitchen:
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites – Perfect for when you need a tiny hit of chocolate.
- Chocolate Chip Banana Bread – The best way to use those brown bananas on your counter.
- Easy Ice Cream Sandwich Cake – A fantastic, no-bake crowd-pleaser.
Final Thoughts
Homemade donuts might seem like a project reserved for professional bakers, but as you can see, they are incredibly accessible. There is a special kind of joy in seeing a simple dough transform into a golden, sugary masterpiece.
I’d love to hear how yours turned out! Did you stick with the classic sugar coating, or did you try adding a bit of cinnamon? Let me know in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow Chefmaniac for more easy, delicious recipes that make home cooking fun.
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