Table of Contents
- Introduction: The Joy of Homemade Donuts
- Why This Donut Recipe is Special
- Tips for Perfect Homemade Donuts
- Choosing the Right Ingredients
- How to Store and Reheat Donuts
- Serving Ideas for Your Donuts
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Notes & Tips
Key Takeaways
Homemade donuts are a fun and delicious treat that you can easily make at home. This recipe from Betty Cooks (bettycooks.com) ensures light, fluffy donuts that taste even better than store-bought! From selecting the right ingredients to perfecting your frying technique, this guide covers everything you need to know.

Introduction: The Joy of Homemade Donuts
There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly fried donuts filling your kitchen. With this homemade donut recipe, you can enjoy the sweet, golden goodness of classic donuts right from your own stove. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, this guide will help you achieve bakery-quality donuts at home.

Why This Donut Recipe is Special
Unlike store-bought donuts, homemade donuts give you full control over the ingredients and flavor. This recipe incorporates a tried-and-true dough that results in the perfect balance of airy softness and slight chewiness. Plus, you can customize the toppings to your liking—whether you prefer powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, or a rich glaze.

Tips for Perfect Homemade Donuts
- Proofing the Dough: Letting the dough rise properly is key to achieving soft, fluffy donuts.
- Oil Temperature Matters: Keep your frying oil at a steady 350°F for evenly cooked donuts.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Fry in small batches to maintain even cooking and avoid soggy donuts.
- Customize the Flavors: Try dipping them in chocolate, caramel, or even maple glaze for a fun twist.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
Using high-quality ingredients will make a big difference in your homemade donuts. Use fresh yeast for the best rise, whole milk for richness, and real vanilla extract for an enhanced flavor. If you prefer a healthier version, try baking instead of frying—just brush with butter and bake at 375°F until golden.

How to Store and Reheat Donuts
Homemade donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days. If they lose their softness, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F for a crispier exterior.
Serving Ideas for Your Donuts
Donuts are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them with a few creative serving ideas:
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee for the ultimate breakfast treat.
- Make a donut sundae by adding ice cream and chocolate drizzle.
- Fill them with jam or cream for a bakery-style experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these donuts ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before frying.
Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes, you can bake these donuts at 375°F until golden brown, but they will have a slightly different texture than fried ones.
Notes & Tips
For best results, use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the oil stays at the right temperature. Also, if you prefer a glaze instead of powdered sugar, mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk and a splash of vanilla extract, then dip the warm donuts in the glaze.


Homemade Donuts
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- In a bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add sugar, milk, butter, egg, and vanilla extract, and mix well.
- Gradually add flour and salt, kneading until a soft dough forms.
- Let dough rise for 1 hour in a warm place until doubled in size.
- Roll out dough and cut into donut shapes. Let rest for 15 minutes.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry donuts for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove and drain on a paper towel. Dust with powdered sugar and serve.
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