Homemade Yeast Donuts
These Homemade Yeast Donuts are pillowy-soft, slightly sweet, and utterly irresistible! Made with a classic yeast dough, they fry up golden and can be customized with your favorite glazes or toppings. Perfect for weekend treats, special occasions, or just because!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Light & Fluffy – Yeast dough ensures an airy texture.
✔ Easy to Make – No fancy equipment needed!
✔ Customizable – Top with glaze, sugar, or cinnamon.
✔ Better Than Store-Bought – Fresh, warm, and free of preservatives.
FAQs
Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 mins, but texture will be denser.
What’s the best glaze?
Mix 1 cup powdered sugar + 2 tbsp milk + 1 tsp vanilla.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes! After the first rise, freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw before shaping.
Homemade Yeast Donuts
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast 1 packet
- ¼ cup warm water 110°F/45°C
- 1 cup warm milk 110°F/45°C
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
- 4 cups all-purpose flour + extra for dusting
For Frying & Topping:
- Vegetable oil for frying; ~4 cups
- Glaze or cinnamon sugar optional
Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Let sit 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, mix milk, sugar, salt, eggs, melted butter, and yeast mixture.
- Gradually add flour, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth.
- Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1 hour (or until doubled).
- Roll dough ½-inch thick and cut into donuts (use a donut cutter or two round cutters).
- Place on a floured tray, cover, and let rise 30 more minutes.
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pot.
- Fry donuts 1 minute per side until golden. Drain on paper towels.
- Dip warm donuts in glaze, cinnamon sugar, or powdered sugar. Enjoy fresh!
Notes
Recipe Notes & Tips
✅ Yeast Check: If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be dead—start over!✅ Oil Temp Matters: Use a thermometer for even frying.
✅ No Cutter? Use a glass + shot glass for rings, or make donut holes.
✅ Storage: Best eaten fresh, but keep in an airtight container for 1–2 days.
These Homemade Yeast Donuts taste like they came from a bakery—crispy outside, fluffy inside, and totally customizable! Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a fun weekend project.