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A close-up view of freshly fried homemade yeast donuts with a golden brown exterior, resting on a wire rack with a soft, fluffy interior visible.
Jana Rae

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.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 14 Donuts
Course: Dessert, Pastries
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220
Ingredients Method Notes

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

Method
 

  1. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Let sit 5 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large bowl, mix milk, sugar, salt, eggs, melted butter, and yeast mixture.
  3. Gradually add flour, stirring until a soft dough forms.
  4. Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth.
  5. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1 hour (or until doubled).
  6. Roll dough ½-inch thick and cut into donuts (use a donut cutter or two round cutters).
  7. Place on a floured tray, cover, and let rise 30 more minutes.
  8. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pot.
  9. Fry donuts 1 minute per side until golden. Drain on paper towels.
  10. 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.