Classic Homemade Fluffy Doughnuts

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Classic Homemade Fluffy Doughnuts

Soft, light doughnuts with a tender interior and a lightly crisp exterior. These are made with simple pantry ingredients and are best enjoyed fresh.

Yield

12–15 doughnuts

Time

  • Preparation: 20 minutes

  • Rising: 1½ hours

  • Cooking: 15 minutes

Ingredients

Dough

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 cup whole milk, warm (not hot)

  • 7 g active dry yeast

  • 5 tablespoons granulated sugar

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 large egg, room temperature

  • ½ teaspoon salt

Frying and Coating

  • Vegetable oil, for frying

  • Granulated sugar or powdered sugar, for coating

Instructions

1. Prepare the Yeast

Pour the warm milk into a small bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of the sugar and stir to dissolve. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk and stir gently. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes until the mixture looks foamy. This shows the yeast is ready.

2. Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center. Add the egg, softened butter, and the yeast mixture. Stir with a spoon until a soft, rough dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.

  • Knead by hand for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic

  • Or knead with a mixer and dough hook for about 5 minutes

The dough should feel soft and slightly tacky but not sticky.

4. First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover and let it rest in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

5. Shape the Doughnuts

Gently press the dough to release air. Roll it out to about ½-inch thickness on a floured surface.

Cut doughnut shapes using a cutter or a large glass with a smaller cutter for the center. Place each doughnut on a small piece of parchment paper. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.

6. Fry the Doughnuts

Heat about 2 inches of oil in a heavy pot to 350°F (175°C).

Carefully lower the doughnuts into the oil. Remove the parchment paper once it releases.

Fry for 1–2 minutes per side until evenly golden.

Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.

7. Coat and Serve

While still warm, roll the doughnuts in granulated sugar or dust with powdered sugar.

Serve fresh.

Helpful Notes

  • Keep oil temperature steady for even cooking

  • Do not overcrowd the pot

  • Best enjoyed the same day

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