Yeast Doughnuts Recipe

Warm milk: This helps activate the yeast and creates a tender dough.

Active dry yeast: Essential for the dough to rise and become fluffy.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the doughnuts and helps with browning.

Melted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the dough.

Beaten eggs: Provide structure and moisture to the dough.

All-purpose flour: The main structure of the doughnuts.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the doughnuts.

Vegetable oil: Used for frying the doughnuts to a golden brown.

When kneading the dough, ensure you use a light dusting of flour on your surface to prevent sticking. Knead with the heels of your hands, pushing the dough away from you and then folding it back over itself. This helps develop the gluten structure, giving your doughnuts a perfect chewy texture. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, but be cautious not to add too much as it can make the dough tough.

• warm milk - Substitute with warm almond milk: Almond milk can provide a similar texture and moisture to the doughnuts while being a dairy-free alternative.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used in the same quantity and does not require proofing, making it a convenient alternative.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a different flavor profile and moisture to the doughnuts, though it may slightly alter the texture.

• melted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar fat content and moisture, with a subtle coconut flavor.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) can act as a binding agent and provide moisture, making it a vegan alternative.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add more fiber and nutrients, though it may result in a denser texture.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar salty flavor with potentially more minerals.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a high smoke point and neutral flavor, making it a suitable alternative for frying.

• Allow the doughnuts to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Place the doughnuts in an airtight container. If stacking, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, consider freezing.
• To freeze, arrange doughnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Once frozen, transfer doughnuts to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date for reference.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw doughnuts at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
• For best results, avoid glazing or adding toppings before freezing. Apply glaze or sugar dusting after thawing to maintain freshness and texture.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the doughnuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat for about 5-10 minutes until they are warmed through. This method helps maintain the doughnuts' crispy exterior while ensuring the inside is soft and fluffy.

• Microwave Method: Place a doughnut on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Microwave on medium power for 10-15 seconds. Check the doughnut and add more time in 5-second increments if needed. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the doughnuts rubbery.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the doughnuts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for 3-4 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are warming evenly. This method can help restore some of the doughnuts' original crispiness.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat. Place the doughnuts in the skillet and cover with a lid. Warm for about 2-3 minutes on each side. This method is gentle and helps maintain the doughnuts' texture without drying them out.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the doughnuts on the toaster oven tray. Heat for about 5 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking. This method is quick and effective for reheating a small batch of doughnuts.

• Large mixing bowl: Used to combine the warm milk and yeast, and later to mix in the sugar, melted butter, and beaten eggs.

• Measuring cup: Essential for accurately measuring the warm milk.

• Measuring spoons: Needed to measure the active dry yeast, sugar, and salt.

• Whisk: Useful for beating the eggs and mixing the ingredients together.

• Wooden spoon: Handy for mixing the flour and salt into the wet ingredients until a dough forms.

• Floured surface: A clean, flat area dusted with flour for kneading the dough.

• Doughnut cutter: Used to cut out doughnuts from the rolled-out dough.

• Rolling pin: Helps to roll out the dough to the desired thickness.

• Greased bowl: A bowl coated with a thin layer of oil to allow the dough to rise without sticking.

• Kitchen towel: Used to cover the dough while it rises.

• Frying pan: Needed to heat the oil for frying the doughnuts.

• Thermometer: Ensures the oil reaches the correct frying temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Slotted spoon: Useful for removing the doughnuts from the hot oil.

• Paper towels: Placed on a plate to drain excess oil from the fried doughnuts.

• Cooling rack: Allows the doughnuts to cool slightly before glazing or dusting with sugar.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting. This ensures a smooth workflow.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can knead the dough more efficiently, saving you time and effort.

Proof in a warm oven: Speed up the rising process by placing the dough in an oven set to its lowest temperature, then turned off.

Cut doughnuts efficiently: Use a doughnut cutter to quickly and uniformly cut out doughnuts.

Fry in batches: Fry multiple doughnuts at once to reduce overall cooking time.