Simple Homemade Sugar Donuts

Simple Homemade Sugar Donuts are one of life’s greatest kitchen pleasures. Their soft, pillowy texture combined with a crisp sugar coating makes them a timeless treat that never goes out of style. Whether you’re serving them warm for brunch or preparing a batch for weekend snacking, these donuts are guaranteed to disappear quickly. If you’ve never made yeast-based donuts before, don’t worry—this recipe is crafted to be approachable for beginners, even those who’ve never worked with dough. Before diving in, take a look at our basic doughnut-making techniques to get familiar with the process.

Homemade donuts might seem intimidating, but they don’t have to be. With just a few pantry staples and the right guidance, you can skip the drive-thru and enjoy fresh donuts in your own kitchen. The key to a successful batch is understanding how yeast fermentation works and how to manage oil temperature for frying. For a detailed explanation on yeast science, check out Red Star Yeast’s guide to the rising process. It’ll help you avoid dense or under-risen dough and ensure your donuts are light and fluffy.

Once you master the basics, you can start experimenting with flavors and textures. In fact, these sugar donuts make an excellent base for citrus-infused variations, glazes, or even filled versions. If you love zesty twists, you’ll enjoy pairing this recipe with our creamsicle orange sugar cookies for a citrus-themed dessert platter. No matter how you personalize them, these Simple Homemade Sugar Donuts are sure to become a regular part of your baking rotation.

🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s your starter pack of kitchen staples to make about a dozen donuts:

• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• ½ cup warm milk (110°F)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Oil for frying (canola or vegetable)
• ½ cup granulated sugar for coating

🧰 Tools & Equipment

Simple tools are all you need:

• Mixing bowls
• Dough whisk or spoon
• Rolling pin
• Donut cutter or cookie cutters
• Deep pan or fryer
• Thermometer (crucial for oil temp)
• Cooling rack or paper towels

🧪 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

• Warm the milk to about 110°F.
• In a bowl, mix milk and sugar, then sprinkle in the yeast.
• Let sit for 10 minutes until it foams.

✅ If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be expired or the milk too hot/cold.

2. Mix the Dough

• Add egg, butter, and salt to the yeast mixture.
• Stir in the flour gradually until a dough forms.
• Knead by hand (10 mins) or mixer (5 mins) until smooth.

3. First Rise (Proofing)

• Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a towel.
• Let rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled.

📚 For a scientific look at how yeast rises, check out Red Star Yeast’s guide.

4. Shape the Donuts

• Roll out dough on a floured surface to ½ inch thickness.
• Use donut or cookie cutters to shape.
• Re-roll scraps and repeat.

5. Second Rise

• Transfer shaped donuts to a tray, cover, and let rise for 30 minutes.
• They should look puffier but not collapsed.

6. Fry the Donuts

• Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F.
• Fry 2–3 donuts at a time, about 1 minute per side, until golden.
• Drain on paper towels or a rack.

🔥 Want to choose the best frying oil? Learn about oil smoke points here.

7. Sugar Coating

• While still warm, toss donuts in granulated sugar.
• For extra fun, try vanilla sugar or a cinnamon-sugar blend.

💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Sugar Donuts

• Don’t skip the second rise — it gives donuts their fluffy center.
• Use a thermometer — too hot and they burn; too cold and they soak oil.
• Coat while warm — sugar won’t stick well once cool.

🍊 Flavor Variations You’ll Love

You don’t have to stick with classic sugar. Try these:

• Cinnamon-Sugar – Add 1 tbsp cinnamon to the sugar coating.
• Citrus Zest Sugar – Add lemon or orange zest to your sugar.
• For inspiration, check out other citrus sugar desserts.
• Stuffed Donuts – Use a piping bag to inject jam, Nutella, or custard.
• Glazed Variation – Skip sugar and dip in a thin vanilla glaze.

💪 Healthier Alternatives & Substitutions

If you’re trying to keep your breakfast light, consider:

• Sub whole wheat flour for half the AP flour.
• Air fry instead of deep fry (texture will vary).
• Use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic coating.
• Try a baked version using a donut pan.

Or for something lighter but equally satisfying, you can explore healthy breakfast alternatives.

⚖️ Storage and Reheating Tips

Fresh is best, but here’s how to store them:

• Room Temp: Airtight for 1–2 days.
• Freezer: Wrap individually, freeze up to 2 months.
• Reheat: 10 seconds in the microwave or 5 minutes in a 300°F oven.

🙋‍♀️ FAQ: People Also Ask

Why are my donuts greasy?

Your oil was likely too cool. Keep it steady at 350°F.

Can I make these donuts without yeast?

You can, but they’ll be cake-style donuts, denser and quicker to make.

What oil is best for frying?

Use neutral oils like canola, peanut, or vegetable oil. Avoid olive oil.

Can I use almond milk?

Yes, just ensure it’s warm before mixing with yeast.

How can I make them more fluffy?

• Don’t rush the rise.
• Use fresh yeast.
• Knead properly.

🍴 What to Serve With Sugar Donuts

Pair your donuts with:

• Hot cocoa
• Coffee or latte
• Fresh orange juice
• Yogurt and fruit

Or serve as part of a brunch buffet with these sweet breakfast ideas.

✅ Final Thoughts

These simple homemade sugar donuts offer joy with every bite. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and ideal for any occasion — breakfast, brunch, or indulgent snack time.

So roll up your sleeves, let the dough rise, and treat yourself. Whether you’re going classic or experimenting with flavors, these donuts are bound to become a family favorite.

Love experimenting with baking? Browse more of our sweet and satisfying recipes to complete your morning menu.