Make bakery-style yeast doughnuts at home with this easy recipe! These soft and fluffy doughnuts are perfectly golden, rolled in sugar, and can be filled with your favorite fillings like jam, chocolate hazelnut spread, or whipped cream. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or special occasions, these homemade doughnuts are a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re searching for the best classic doughnut recipe or tips for frying doughnuts to perfection, this recipe is your ultimate guide to creating light, airy doughnuts every time!

Table of Contents

Ingredients

6 tablespoons (90 ml) warm water
5 ounces (150 ml) buttermilk, at room temperature
1 large egg, beaten, at room temperature
2 ounces (57 g) unsalted butter, melted
16 ounces (454 g) all-purpose or bread flour (use a kitchen scale for accuracy)
2 ounces (57 g) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 ½ teaspoons (5 g) regular or quick-rise yeast
Oil for frying (sunflower, grapeseed, or a combination works well)
Sugar for coating the doughnuts
Fillings (optional): jam, chocolate hazelnut spread, or whipped cream

Instructions

Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and 2 teaspoons of sugar. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
Prepare the dough: In a stand mixer or bread machine, combine the flour, buttermilk, melted butter, salt, remaining sugar, and beaten egg. Add the activated yeast mixture. Knead until the dough pulls away cleanly from the sides of the bowl.
Knead by hand: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for a few minutes until smooth and elastic.
First rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1–2 hours).
Shape the doughnuts: Punch down the risen dough and place it on a floured surface. Roll it out to about ½ inch thickness using a rolling pin. Use a large round cutter to cut out doughnuts and a smaller cutter to create holes. Gather and re-roll scraps as needed.
Second rise: Arrange the cut doughnuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover them lightly with a cloth and let them rise for 20–30 minutes, until slightly puffed.
Fry the doughnuts: Heat oil in a deep frying pan or pot to about 350°F (175°C). Test the temperature by lowering a small piece of dough into the oil—it should bubble immediately. Fry the doughnuts in batches, turning them once, until golden brown on both sides (about 1–2 minutes per side).
Cool and coat: Remove the fried doughnuts with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, roll the doughnuts in granulated sugar to coat evenly.
Fill (optional): If desired, use a piping bag fitted with a nozzle to inject jam, chocolate hazelnut spread, or whipped cream into the doughnuts. Serve and enjoy!

Tips

Temperature control: Maintain a consistent oil temperature of 350°F (175°C) for evenly fried doughnuts. Use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy.
Fluffy doughnuts: Allow sufficient rising time to ensure light and airy doughnuts. Avoid over-proofing, as the doughnuts may collapse during frying.
Avoid greasy doughnuts: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying; too cool oil will result in greasy doughnuts.
Sugar coating: Coat the doughnuts in sugar while they are still slightly warm for better adherence.

Variations and Substitutions

Flour options: Use bread flour for a chewier texture or whole wheat flour for a slightly denser doughnut.
Flavor enhancers: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg to the dough for extra flavor.
Filling ideas: Try custard, lemon curd, or caramel for unique flavors.
Gluten-free version: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend designed for yeast baking.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and frying.

Can I bake these doughnuts instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the doughnuts at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–12 minutes. They won’t have the same crispness but will still taste delicious.

How do I store leftover doughnuts?
Store unfilled doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Filled doughnuts should be refrigerated and consumed within 1–2 days.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy fresh doughnuts with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast treat.
Create a dessert platter with an assortment of sugar-coated and filled doughnuts for parties.
Serve with a side of dipping sauces like chocolate ganache or caramel for an indulgent twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Perfect Yeast Doughnuts are a classic treat with a soft, fluffy texture and a lightly crispy exterior. Whether sugar-coated or filled with your favorite fillings, they’re irresistibly delicious and easy to customize. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or special occasions, this recipe delivers bakery-quality doughnuts right from your kitchen!