If you have a sweet tooth and crave something irresistibly comforting, you are going to fall head over heels for this Fried Doughnuts with Sugar Recipe. These golden, fluffy doughnuts are perfectly crispy on the outside and tender inside, coated generously in sparkling sugar that melts in your mouth. It’s a timeless treat that feels like a warm hug from the kitchen, perfect for family breakfasts, afternoon snacks, or any moment when you just need a little sweetness in life.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how just a few simple ingredients come together to create this magic. Each one plays a crucial role—from the yeast that gives the doughits airy texture to the melted butter adding rich flavor and the sugar that turns these doughnuts into a shimmering delight.
- Active dry yeast: This is the secret behind your doughnuts’ soft, pillowy texture, so make sure it’s fresh and active.
- Warm milk (about 110°F): Perfect temperature to awaken the yeast without killing it, ensuring your dough rises beautifully.
- Granulated sugar: Used both in the dough for sweetness and as a coating for that addictive sugary crunch.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Adds luscious richness and a tender crumb to the dough.
- Large egg: Helps bind the ingredients and adds a golden color to the doughnuts.
- Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance all the flavors.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of your dough’s structure—plus a bit extra for dusting to keep things from sticking.
- Vegetable oil: For frying to golden perfection—choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point.
How to Make Fried Doughnuts with Sugar Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by dissolving your active dry yeast in warm milk—this gentle bath wakes it up and gets it foaming, signaling it’s ready to help your dough rise. Wait until you see that frothy top; it’s like your doughnuts giving you a wink of approval to move forward.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Next, mix the sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt in a large bowl, then add your yeast mixture. Gradually stir in the flour until a soft dough forms. This part is all about feeling the dough come together—it might be a little sticky at first, but that’s normal. Knead it on a floured surface for 5 to 7 minutes until it’s wonderfully smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Let It Rise
Once kneaded, transfer your dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rest in a warm spot. Patience here is key—the dough will double in size over 1 to 2 hours, developing those lovely air pockets and a soft texture you’re aiming for.
Step 4: Shape the Doughnuts
After your dough has risen, it’s time for some fun! Punch it down gently to release the air, roll it out to about half an inch thick, and cut out doughnut shapes using your cutter or two round cutters. Lay them on a floured baking sheet, cover, and let them rest for another 30 minutes, allowing a final puff before frying.
Step 5: Fry the Doughnuts
Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a fryer or heavy pot. Carefully slide your doughnuts in, a few at a time so they don’t crowd the pot. Fry each side for 1-2 minutes until they’re a gorgeous golden brown. A slotted spoon helps scoop them out and onto paper towels to drain excess oil. This step is pure joy—the sizzling and turning golden instantaneously always makes my mouth water.
Step 6: Coat with Sugar
While still warm and slightly oily on the surface, toss your doughnuts in granulated sugar until they’re fully coated. The sugar clings perfectly, creating that classic, sweet-dusted finish you know and love. This is where the Fried Doughnuts with Sugar Recipe truly shines—the coating adds just the right amount of sparkle and sweetness.
How to Serve Fried Doughnuts with Sugar Recipe
Garnishes
Simple is best with these sugar-coated beauties, but a light dusting of cinnamon mixed with sugar can add a warm twist. For extra flair, drizzle with melted chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream on the side make a nice touch if you’re feeling indulgent.
Side Dishes
Pair your fried doughnuts with a steaming cup of coffee or hot cocoa to balance the sweetness. Fresh fruit salad or a citrusy compote can offer a fresh contrast to the doughnut’s richness, making for a well-rounded treat that satisfies every craving.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn these fried treats into mini doughnut towers using skewers for a fun party centerpiece. You can also sandwich a little cream or jam between two doughnuts to create sweet bites or serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and delicious for up to two days, making it easy to enjoy your Fried Doughnuts with Sugar Recipe anytime.
Freezing
You can freeze the doughnuts after frying and cooling completely. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper. When you want a treat, just thaw them at room temperature or warm them up slightly to enjoy fresh flavors.
Reheating
To revive your doughnuts, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes or heat briefly in the microwave. This will bring back that soft interior and a slight crispness outside, making them almost as good as fresh.
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Absolutely! Instant yeast works well here; just mix it directly with the dry ingredients, and you can skip the activation step. It might speed up the rising process slightly.
What oil is best for frying doughnuts?
Vegetable oil or canola oil are perfect choices because they have high smoke points and neutral flavors, letting your doughnuts shine without any overpowering taste.
Can I make these doughnuts gluten-free?
While this classic Fried Doughnuts with Sugar Recipe relies on all-purpose flour, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends. Just be aware that texture and rise may vary, so adjustments in liquids or leavening might be needed.
How thick should I roll out the dough?
Rolling the dough to about half an inch thick is ideal—thicker dough can be too doughy inside, while thinner might get overly crispy. This thickness ensures a fluffy yet tender doughnut.
Can I add flavors to the dough?
Definitely! Adding vanilla extract, citrus zest, or ground spices into the dough mix can add wonderful aroma and flavor, giving a unique twist to your Fried Doughnuts with Sugar Recipe.
Final Thoughts
Making Fried Doughnuts with Sugar Recipe at home is such a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your heart with sweetness. Whether baking for family, friends, or a cozy treat just for you, these doughnuts promise smiles and satisfied cravings every single time. So grab your ingredients, follow these simple yet detailed steps, and prepare to enjoy one of the most joyous comfort foods around!
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Fried Doughnuts with Sugar Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These classic homemade fried doughnuts coated in granulated sugar offer a sweet, nostalgic treat perfect for family gatherings or a delightful breakfast. Soft, fluffy, and lightly crispy, they’re made from a simple yeast dough fried to golden perfection and tossed in sugar for extra sweetness.
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)
For Frying and Coating
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm milk (about 110°F). Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active and ready.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt. Stir in the yeast mixture, then gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let it Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a cloth. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the Doughnuts: After the dough has risen, punch it down to remove air. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter or two round cutters to cut out the doughnut shapes. Place the doughnuts on a floured baking sheet, cover them with a cloth, and let rest for about 30 minutes.
- Fry the Doughnuts: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place a few doughnuts at a time into the hot oil without overcrowding. Fry each side for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Coat with Sugar: While the doughnuts are still warm, roll them in granulated sugar until fully coated, giving them a sweet finish and a slight crunch from the sugar.
- Serve: Enjoy your freshly fried and sugar-coated doughnuts warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Do not overcrowd the oil during frying to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
- Use fresh yeast for best results and check the expiration date.
- If you don’t have a doughnut cutter, you can use any round cutters or improvise with glasses of different sizes.
- Store doughnuts in an airtight container and consume within 1-2 days for freshness.
