If you’re craving a homemade treat that tastes like it came straight from a cozy neighborhood bakery, this Fried Doughnuts with Sugar Recipe is exactly what you need. These golden, fluffy doughnuts coated in a sweet sugar blanket bring back those comforting childhood memories and warm your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Perfectly crispy on the outside yet soft and pillowy inside, this recipe is a family favorite that turns simple pantry staples into a glorious indulgence everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Fried Doughnuts with Sugar Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering the perfect texture, flavor, and color. From the yeast that makes the dough rise beautifully to the sugar that gives that sweet final touch, every item on the list is essential.
- Active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons): The secret for light, fluffy doughnuts that rise perfectly.
- Warm milk (3/4 cup, about 110°F): Activates the yeast and adds tenderness to the dough.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup + 1/2 cup for coating): Adds sweetness inside the dough and a delightful sugary crisp on the outside.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, melted): Enriches the dough with buttery flavor and helps keep it moist.
- Large egg (1): Provides structure and a tender crumb.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- All-purpose flour (2 1/2 cups plus extra for dusting): The foundation that holds everything together while contributing to that classic doughnut chew.
- Vegetable oil (for frying): Neutral oil that ensures crispy, evenly fried doughnuts without overpowering their flavor.
How to Make Fried Doughnuts with Sugar Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Begin by dissolving the yeast in warm milk. This little step is crucial because the yeast needs the right environment to wake up and start working its magic. Let the mixture sit until it becomes frothy – about five minutes – showing your yeast is alive and ready to make the dough rise beautifully.
Step 2: Mix and Knead the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, the egg, and salt. Pour in the frothy yeast mixture and stir until everything is combined. Then gradually add your flour, stirring until a soft dough forms. Turn it onto a floured surface and knead with love for 5 to 7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic – this kneading develops the gluten that gives doughnuts their signature chewy texture.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Place your dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a cloth to keep it cozy and warm. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 2 hours until it doubles in size. This slow rest is when all the flavor develops, and your dough becomes airy and light.
Step 4: Shape the Doughnuts
Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release trapped air, then roll it out to about half an inch thick on a floured surface. Use a doughnut cutter or two round cutters to cut out your doughnut shapes. Place them on a floured baking sheet, cover, and let them rest for 30 more minutes – giving them a second rise that makes frying easier and results in that perfect fluffy bite.
Step 5: Fry Until Golden
Heat your vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or a large pot. Carefully drop the doughnuts into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid crowding, about 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to keep them crisp yet light.
Step 6: Coat with Sugar
While the doughnuts are still warm, roll them in granulated sugar until fully coated. This simple step adds that irresistible sweet crunch that makes these doughnuts so addictive and delightful.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Now, all that’s left is to enjoy your freshly made Fried Doughnuts with Sugar Recipe. Whether warm or at room temperature, these treats are pure joy with each bite.
How to Serve Fried Doughnuts with Sugar Recipe
Garnishes
Keep it classic by sticking to a generous roll in granulated sugar, or add a little twist with a dusting of cinnamon sugar for warmth. Fresh berries and a light drizzle of honey also make beautiful, fresh additions that balance the sweetness perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair your doughnuts with a creamy coffee, hot chocolate, or even a fresh fruit smoothie for a complete morning or afternoon snack that feels like a celebration. A side of yogurt with honey and granola also adds a nice contrast to the rich fried doughnuts.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your doughnuts stacked with layers of fresh fruit and whipped cream between them for an impressive doughnut tower. Or serve them alongside small dipping bowls of chocolate sauce, caramel, or berry compote to make it interactive and fun for everyone at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, keep your Fried Doughnuts with Sugar Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the sugar coating intact and the doughnuts soft inside.
Freezing
You can freeze doughnuts after frying and sugar coating by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Frozen doughnuts maintain their flavor for up to a month, perfect for a tasty surprise later on.
Reheating
To bring frozen or stored doughnuts back to life, warm them gently in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes. This reheats without drying them out and keeps the sugar coating crisp and delightful.
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Absolutely! Instant yeast can be used, but it’s best to mix it directly with dry ingredients instead of dissolving it in milk first. The rising time may be slightly faster, so keep an eye on your dough.
What type of oil is best for frying doughnuts?
Vegetable oil is ideal because it has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point. This ensures your doughnuts fry evenly and develop that perfect golden crust without any burnt flavors.
How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature?
Use a kitchen thermometer to aim for 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have one, drop a small piece of dough in the oil — it should bubble up quickly and float to the top without browning too fast. Too hot oil will burn the outside while leaving the inside raw.
Can I add flavors to the dough?
Definitely! Vanilla extract, citrus zest, or a pinch of cinnamon can elevate the flavor of your doughnuts. Just add them in step 2 with the wet ingredients to incorporate evenly.
Are these doughnuts best eaten immediately?
Yes, freshly fried and sugared doughnuts taste best warm or at room temperature within the first day. That said, they still keep well for a couple of days stored properly and can be refreshed with gentle reheating.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a fun, heartwarming kitchen project that ends with a batch of scrumptious treats, this Fried Doughnuts with Sugar Recipe will not disappoint. It’s simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to become a beloved staple whether you’re serving friends, family, or just indulging yourself. So roll up your sleeves and dive in; your perfect doughnut moment awaits!
Print
Fried Doughnuts with Sugar Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 doughnuts (12 servings)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic recipe for Fried Doughnuts with Sugar offers a delightful homemade treat perfect for family gatherings or weekend breakfasts. Soft, fluffy doughnuts are fried to golden perfection and generously coated in granulated sugar, creating a sweet and comforting snack that’s sure to please all ages.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
Frying and Coating
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active and ready to use.
- Prepare Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, melted unsalted butter, egg, and salt. Add the frothy yeast mixture and stir to combine. Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours until it doubles in size, which develops the dough’s texture and flavor.
- Shape Doughnuts: Once risen, punch down the dough to release trapped air. Roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter or two round cutters to cut out doughnut shapes. Place the cut doughnuts on a floured baking sheet, cover them with a cloth, and let them rest and rise for another 30 minutes.
- Heat Oil and Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop a few doughnuts at a time into the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding. Fry each side for about 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove the doughnuts and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Sugar Coating: While the doughnuts are still warm, roll them thoroughly in granulated sugar until fully coated, giving them a sweet, crunchy exterior.
- Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy your freshly made sugar-coated doughnuts warm or at room temperature for a sweet treat that’s best eaten fresh.
Notes
- Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Do not overcrowd the oil while frying to maintain the temperature and achieve even cooking.
- For an extra fluffy texture, you can let the doughnuts rise a second time before frying.
- Store leftover doughnuts in an airtight container and reheat briefly before serving to restore softness.
- Use fresh yeast and quality oil for best flavor and texture.
