Homemade Yeast Donuts
Make light, airy yeast donuts at home with this simple recipe! Fried to golden perfection and ready for glazing—just like your favorite bakery.
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.