The Best Homemade Doughnuts Recipe – Soft, Fluffy, and Irresistible

 


How to Make the Best Homemade Doughnuts

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  1. In a small bowl, mix the warm milk, yeast, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This means the yeast is active and ready to go.

Step 2: Make the Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
  2. Add the eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and yeast mixture to the dry ingredients.
  3. Mix until a sticky dough forms, then knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. (You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook.)

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

  1. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Doughnuts

  1. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to ½-inch thickness.
  2. Use a doughnut cutter or two round cutters (a larger one for the outer circle and a smaller one for the center hole) to cut out the doughnuts.
  3. Transfer the doughnuts and holes to a parchment-lined tray and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 5: Fry the Doughnuts

  1. Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Fry the doughnuts in batches, about 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown.
  3. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined tray to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Glaze and Serve

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze.
  2. Dip each warm doughnut into the glaze, then place on a rack to allow the glaze to set.
  3. (Optional) Roll some doughnuts in cinnamon sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for variety.

Pro Tips for the Best Doughnuts

✅ Use warm milk (not hot!) – Too hot will kill the yeast, and too cold won’t activate it.
✅ Don’t over-knead the dough – Just knead until it’s smooth; overworking will make the dough tough.
✅ Let the dough rise properly – This is the secret to super soft and fluffy doughnuts!
✅ Maintain the right frying temperature – Too hot, and they’ll burn outside while staying raw inside; too low, and they’ll absorb too much oil.
✅ Eat fresh! – Doughnuts are best enjoyed warm and fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days.