Imagine sinking your teeth into a cloud-like, warm doughnut, perfectly golden and dusted with cinnamon-sugar, or perhaps generously coated in a rich vanilla glaze, or even adorned with a decadent chocolate frosting and colorful sprinkles. This isn’t just a dream – it’s the reality you’ll create in your own kitchen with this incredible recipe for soft and fluffy yeast-raised doughnuts. Forget store-bought; nothing compares to the fresh, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of homemade doughnuts. You’ll likely find yourself in a delicious dilemma, struggling to pick a favorite among these three irresistible variations.
This delightful recipe was originally published in March 2014 and proudly sponsored by Red Star Yeast.
It might sound unbelievable, but as a child, I actually had a strong dislike for doughnuts. Reflecting on it now, it seems absolutely absurd! That version of me must have been missing out on some truly incredible culinary experiences. If you’ve never ventured into the world of frying your own doughnuts, you are undoubtedly missing one of life’s simplest yet most profound culinary joys. While I’ve savored many excellent doughnuts from various stores and esteemed bakeries, none have ever quite matched the unparalleled freshness, warmth, and exquisite flavor of those made right here in my own kitchen. I confess, I may have single-handedly devoured almost all of these light and airy yeast-raised doughnuts, but surely, I’m just making up for lost time, aren’t I?
Embarking on the journey of homemade doughnuts might seem intimidating at first glance, but with this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover it’s a surprisingly rewarding and enjoyable process. From the moment you activate the yeast to the final flourish of toppings, each step is designed for success, ensuring you achieve bakery-quality results right in your home. Get ready to transform simple ingredients into extraordinary sweet treats that will delight friends and family alike, leaving them wondering if you secretly opened a doughnut shop!
Table of Contents
- Why you’ll love these doughnuts
- Ingredients you’ll need
- Why I bake with Red Star Yeast
- How to make yeast-raised doughnuts
- 3 toppings to choose from
- Make these doughnuts ahead
- More doughnut recipes to try
- Get the recipe
Why You’ll Fall in Love with These Homemade Yeast Doughnuts
There are countless reasons why these particular yeast-raised doughnuts will become your new go-to recipe. From their unparalleled texture to the endless customization possibilities, every aspect is designed to deliver pure delight. Here’s a closer look at what makes them truly special:
- Unmatched Fluffiness and Tender Texture: These aren’t just any doughnuts; they are incredibly soft, airy, and boast a tender crumb that practically melts in your mouth with every bite. The secret lies in the yeast, which creates a light, pillowy texture that’s superior to cake doughnuts for many enthusiasts. The rich flavor profile of the dough itself is a perfect foundation for any topping you choose.
- Customizable Toppings for Every Craving: One of the best parts about making your own doughnuts is the freedom to get creative with toppings. Whether you prefer the classic warmth of cinnamon-sugar, the sweet simplicity of a vanilla glaze, or the indulgence of rich chocolate frosting topped with fun sprinkles, this recipe offers three distinct and equally delicious options. Feel free to mix and match or invent your own!
- Accessible for Home Bakers: You don’t need a professional pastry kitchen or any highly specialized equipment to achieve phenomenal results. While a kitchen thermometer is highly recommended for maintaining the perfect oil temperature for frying, it’s not strictly essential, and the process is straightforward enough for even novice bakers. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and reliance on basic kitchen tools.
- Step-by-Step Guidance for Confidence: I’ve meticulously broken down each step of the doughnut-making process, ensuring that even if this is your very first time frying, you’ll feel confident and capable. There’s no need to be intimidated by yeast or hot oil; my clear instructions will walk you through everything, making the experience enjoyable and stress-free.
So, are you ready to embark on this delicious adventure and create some of the best doughnuts you’ve ever tasted? Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started!
Essential Ingredients for Your Doughnut Journey
Crafting these heavenly yeast-raised doughnuts requires a few fundamental ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that signature fluffy texture and rich flavor. The full, detailed recipe with exact measurements can be found at the bottom of this article, but here’s a quick overview of what you’ll need to gather:
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of our dough, providing the necessary structure and chewiness.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough and also feeds the yeast, contributing to a proper rise.
- Milk: Adds moisture and richness, resulting in a tender crumb. Whole milk is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
- Unsalted butter: Contributes to the dough’s richness, tenderness, and flavor.
- Eggs: Provide structure, richness, and moisture, making the doughnuts incredibly soft.
- Red Star Active-Dry Yeast or Platinum Red Star Yeast: The crucial leavening agent that gives these doughnuts their signature airy, fluffy texture.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors in the dough.
- Vegetable oil, for frying: A neutral oil is best for achieving a perfectly golden and crisp exterior without imparting unwanted flavors.
- Desired toppings: Gather ingredients for your chosen glazes or cinnamon-sugar mixture (a detailed list of these ingredients is also in the recipe card).
My Trusted Partner in Baking: Red Star Yeast
For many years, I’ve had the immense pleasure of partnering with Red Star Yeast, and I can confidently say it’s the only yeast I consistently reach for in my kitchen. When it comes to baking, consistency and reliability are paramount, and Red Star Yeast delivers on both fronts, every single time. My absolute favorite for everything from rustic breads and fluffy dinner rolls to these exquisite doughnuts is Platinum Red Star Yeast. It’s incredibly forgiving, making the baking process a joy rather than a challenge, and it guarantees consistently exceptional results.
What sets Platinum Red Star Yeast apart is its superior performance. I’ve noticed a significant difference in how my dough rises – it’s often quicker, more vigorous, and results in a noticeably higher volume in the finished product. This translates to lighter, airier, and more beautifully structured baked goods, which is exactly what we want for these divine doughnuts. The active ingredients in Red Star Yeast work efficiently to create the perfect environment for dough development, ensuring a uniform and reliable rise that takes the guesswork out of baking.
Beyond the product itself, Red Star Yeast also offers invaluable resources for home bakers. I highly recommend checking out their comprehensive Baking Lessons section on their website. It’s a treasure trove of information and practical tips, guiding you through every single step of the bread and yeast baking process. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker looking to refine your techniques, you’ll find expert advice on everything from activating yeast to troubleshooting common issues. It’s an excellent resource that complements their fantastic products, making Red Star Yeast an indispensable part of my baking repertoire.
Crafting Perfection: How to Make Yeast-Raised Doughnuts
Making yeast-raised doughnuts from scratch is a labor of love that is incredibly rewarding. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll be enjoying warm, homemade doughnuts in no time.
1. Prepare the Dough: The Foundation of Fluffiness. Begin by gently warming the milk and butter in a small saucepan over low heat until the butter is just melted. Ensure the mixture isn’t too hot, ideally between 110-120°F (43-49°C), to properly activate the yeast without killing it. In the bowl of your stand mixer, combine half of the all-purpose flour, your chosen Red Star Yeast, granulated sugar, and salt. Pour in the warmed milk and butter mixture along with the lightly beaten eggs. Mix on low speed until everything is well combined. Gradually add the remaining flour, about ¼ cup at a time, continuing to knead until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. It should still feel slightly sticky to the touch but shouldn’t actually stick to your hands. This kneading process typically takes about 4-5 minutes on medium speed in a stand mixer.
2. First Rise: Letting the Magic Happen. Once your dough is perfectly kneaded, transfer it to a lightly greased bowl. Turn the dough once to coat it evenly in a thin layer of oil. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to prevent the dough from drying out. Find a warm place in your kitchen – perhaps near a sunny window or in a slightly warm oven (turned off, of course) – and let the dough rise until it has visibly doubled in size. This usually takes about 1 hour, but rising times can vary depending on your kitchen’s temperature and humidity.
3. Roll and Cut: Shaping Your Sweet Treats. After the first rise, gently press down on the dough to release the accumulated gases. This is often called “punching down” the dough. Reshape it into a round, then let it rest for about 15 minutes. This brief rest allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll. On a very lightly floured surface, use a rolling pin to roll the dough out evenly to about ½-inch thick. Now, for the fun part: use a doughnut cutter to cut out your doughnuts. If you don’t have a specialized cutter, two different sized round cutters (e.g., a 3-inch cutter for the doughnut and a 1-inch cutter for the hole) work perfectly. Don’t discard the doughnut holes – they fry up into delicious bite-sized treats!
4. Second Rise: The Final Puff. Carefully transfer your cut doughnuts and doughnut holes to a sheet pan that’s been lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking. Cover the sheet pan loosely with plastic wrap, again ensuring the dough doesn’t dry out. Let them rise in a warm place for another 20-30 minutes, or until they look noticeably puffed up and light. This second rise is crucial for achieving that ultimate airy texture.
5. Fry to Golden Perfection: The Culinary Climax. While your doughnuts are undergoing their second rise, it’s time to prepare for frying. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot (like a Dutch oven), pour enough vegetable oil to reach at least 4 inches deep. Place the pot over medium-high heat. Insert a thermometer into the oil to monitor its temperature; you’re aiming for a consistent 370-375°F (188-190°C). Once the oil is hot and ready, carefully slide a few doughnuts into the oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry them in small batches for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Use a slotted spoon or a spider strainer to flip them and then to transfer the fried doughnuts to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Maintain the oil temperature throughout the frying process.
6. Top and Serve: The Grand Finale. This is where your doughnuts truly come to life! While the doughnuts are still warm (but not scalding hot), it’s the ideal time to add your desired toppings. This allows glazes to adhere beautifully and cinnamon-sugar to melt slightly, creating an irresistible coating. If you’re using a glaze, allow it to set for a few minutes on a wire rack before you dive in. The waiting will be the hardest part, but it’s worth it for a perfectly set, delicious doughnut. Then, all that’s left to do is savor your incredible homemade creations!
Indulge Your Cravings: Three Irresistible Topping Options
The beauty of these homemade yeast doughnuts lies not only in their fluffy texture but also in the endless possibilities for customization. While the plain, freshly fried dough is a treat in itself, these three classic toppings elevate them to extraordinary levels. You can certainly pick just one, but I highly recommend trying all three – honestly, they’re all so good, you might find it impossible to choose a favorite! Each topping recipe is designed to generously cover an entire batch of doughnuts.
- Classic Cinnamon-Sugar: A timeless favorite, offering a comforting blend of sweetness and spice. The warm doughnuts are simply tossed in a mixture of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon, creating a delightful crunchy coating that melts slightly upon contact with the warm dough. It’s simple, elegant, and always a crowd-pleaser.
- Smooth Vanilla Glaze: For those who prefer a more traditional, shiny finish. This silky-smooth glaze, made with powdered sugar, milk, and a hint of pure vanilla extract, provides a delicate sweetness that perfectly complements the rich doughnut. It hardens just enough to create a slight crackle when bitten, revealing the soft interior.
- Decadent Chocolate Glaze with Sprinkles: For the ultimate chocolate lover, this rich and glossy glaze is a pure indulgence. Made with real chocolate, butter, and vanilla, it blankets the doughnuts in a luxurious coating. Add a generous showering of colorful sprinkles for a festive touch and an extra bit of crunch, making them especially appealing for celebrations or a fun treat.
baking tip:Mastering Deep Frying: Essential Tips for Perfect Doughnuts
- Choose the Right Pot: Always use a heavy-bottomed pot, such as a Dutch oven. Its sturdy construction distributes heat evenly and helps maintain a consistent oil temperature, which is essential for uniform frying.
- Generous Oil Depth: Fill your pot with at least 3 to 4 inches of oil. This ensures that whatever you are frying has enough room to float and cook evenly without touching the bottom of the pot, promoting uniform browning.
- Temperature Control is Key: A reliable kitchen thermometer is your best friend when deep frying. Knowing the exact temperature of your oil is critical; too cool, and your doughnuts will soak up oil and become greasy; too hot, and they’ll burn on the outside before cooking through.
- Maintain Optimal Temperature: Aim to fry at 350-375°F (as per recipe instructions). Keep a close eye on your thermometer and adjust the heat as needed. If the temperature drops too much when you add items, slightly increase the heat; if it gets too hot, reduce it.
- Fry in Batches: Avoid crowding the pot. Frying too many items at once will significantly drop the oil temperature, leading to greasy, poorly cooked results. Work in small batches to maintain optimal temperature and ensure everything fries beautifully.
- Prioritize Safety: Always wear an apron to protect your clothing from any oil splatters. Use a slotted spoon or spider strainer to carefully place items into the hot oil, flip them over, and remove them. This keeps your hands a safe distance from the hot oil.
- Proper Oil Disposal: Once you’re finished frying, turn off the heat immediately and let the oil cool completely to room temperature. Never pour hot oil down the drain, as it can solidify and cause plumbing issues. Instead, pour the cooled oil through a funnel into a sturdy container with a secure lid and discard it with your regular trash, or save it for future frying if it’s still clean enough.
Planning Ahead: Tips for Preparing and Storing Doughnuts
While these yeast-raised doughnuts are undoubtedly best enjoyed fresh and warm on the day they are made, there are ways to prepare them ahead of time or store leftovers to extend their deliciousness. This flexibility makes them a perfect treat for special occasions or busy mornings.
- Prepare Doughnuts Ahead for Fresh Frying: If you want to enjoy fresh doughnuts without the full morning prep, you can prepare the doughnuts all the way up to their second rise. After shaping and placing them on the parchment-lined sheet pan, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and chill them in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours (overnight works perfectly!). When you’re ready to fry, remove them from the fridge and let them come to room temperature for at least 30 minutes. They will continue their second rise during this time. Once puffed, proceed with frying as usual. This method allows you to enjoy warm, fresh doughnuts with less effort on the day of serving.
- Storage of Leftover Doughnuts: While the peak experience is on day one, these yeast-raised doughnuts will keep surprisingly well. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for several days. To regain some of their original freshness, you can gently warm them in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a toaster oven at a low temperature for a few minutes. This will soften the dough and bring back some of that delightful warmth.
Expand Your Sweet Horizons: More Doughnut Recipes to Explore
If these fluffy yeast-raised doughnuts ignite your passion for homemade treats, you’re in luck! There’s a whole world of delicious doughnut variations waiting to be discovered. Here are a few more irresistible recipes to add to your baking repertoire, each offering a unique flavor and texture profile to delight your taste buds:
- Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Doughnuts: Dive into nostalgia with these classic, slightly dense, and incredibly flavorful cake-style doughnuts. Known for their characteristic craggy exterior and rich, tangy buttermilk flavor, they are often glazed or simply dusted with powdered sugar.
- Sourdough Apple Fritters: Elevate your baking with the unique tang and texture of sourdough. These fritters are packed with chunks of tender apple, infused with warming spices, and fried to golden perfection, creating a delightful contrast of crispy edges and soft, fruit-filled interiors.
- Lemon Cinnamon-Sugar Doughnut Holes: For a smaller, bite-sized burst of flavor, these doughnut holes are simply divine. Infused with bright lemon zest and coated in a zesty cinnamon-sugar mixture, they are light, airy, and incredibly addictive – perfect for sharing (or not!).
Get the Full Recipe: Yeast Doughnuts Three Ways
Fluffy Yeast Doughnuts (Three Ways!)
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Ingredients
For the Doughnuts:
- 1 cup (237 ml) whole milk
- ⅓ cup (75 grams) unsalted butter
- 4 cups (480 grams) all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (7 grams) Red Star Active-Dry Yeast
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs , lightly beaten
- Vegetable oil , for frying
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping:
- 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Vanilla Glaze:
- 2 cups (226 grams) powdered sugar , sifted
- 3-5 tablespoons milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Glaze:
- ⅓ cup (75 grams) unsalted butter , at room temperature
- ¼ cup (60 ml) whole milk
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 4 ounces (113 grams) dark or bittersweet chocolate , chopped
- 2 cups (226 grams) powdered sugar , sifted
- Sprinkles , for decoration (optional)
Instructions
To make the doughnuts:
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In a small saucepan set over low heat, warm the milk and butter until butter is melted. Remove from heat and let sit for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture reaches a temperature of 110-120°F (43-49°C). This temperature is crucial for activating the yeast properly.
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In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook attachment, combine two cups of the all-purpose flour with the Red Star Active-Dry Yeast, salt, and granulated sugar. Pour in the warmed milk and butter mixture and the lightly beaten eggs. Mix on low speed until all ingredients are just combined. With the mixer running on medium speed, gradually add the remaining flour, ¼ cup at a time, until the dough comes together. The dough should be thick but still slightly sticky to the touch; it shouldn’t be dry. Continue to knead on medium speed for about 4-5 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size, which typically takes about 1 hour.
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Once the dough has risen, gently “punch down” the dough to release the gases. Let it rest for about 5 minutes to relax the gluten, making it easier to work with. On a very lightly floured surface, roll the dough out into a uniform circle about ½ inch thick. Use a 3 or 3 ½-inch round cutter to cut out the doughnut shapes. Then, use a smaller cutter, approximately 1 inch in diameter, to cut out the doughnut holes from the centers. Carefully place the cut doughnuts and holes onto a sheet pan that has been lined with parchment paper. Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap and let them rise in a warm place for their second proofing, until they appear noticeably puffed, which should take about 30 minutes.
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While your doughnuts are rising, prepare your frying station. Fill a large, heavy-bottomed pan (such as a Dutch oven) with vegetable oil, ensuring the oil is at least 4 inches deep. Place the pan over medium-high heat. Insert a deep-fry thermometer and heat the oil to a precise temperature of 370°F (188°C). Maintaining this temperature is key for perfect frying.
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Once the oil is at the correct temperature, carefully place doughnuts into the hot oil in small batches. Do not overcrowd the pan, as this will drop the oil temperature and result in greasy doughnuts. Fry for about 2 minutes on each side, flipping them halfway through, until they are beautifully golden brown. Use a slotted spoon or a spider strainer to remove the fried doughnuts from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. While still warm, proceed to top the doughnuts as desired with your chosen glazes or cinnamon-sugar.
For the Cinnamon Sugar:
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In a small, shallow bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon, whisking them together until well mixed. While the doughnuts are still hot from frying, immediately dip each doughnut into the cinnamon-sugar mixture, flipping them over to ensure they are completely coated on all sides. You can use a spoon to help sprinkle the mixture if necessary. Serve these warm, cinnamon-sugar doughnuts immediately for the best flavor and texture.
For the Vanilla Glaze:
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the sifted powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons of milk, and the vanilla extract. Continue whisking until the mixture is completely smooth and free of any lumps. If the glaze is too thick, add more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired pourable yet coatable consistency. Dip the tops of the warm doughnuts into the vanilla glaze, then invert them and place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet or parchment paper to catch any drips. Allow the glaze to set for at least 30 minutes before serving.
For the Chocolate Glaze:
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In a small saucepan set over medium-low heat, gently warm the unsalted butter, whole milk, light corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir continuously until the butter is completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the finely chopped dark or bittersweet chocolate. Stir the chocolate until it is fully melted and incorporated, resulting in a glossy, smooth chocolate mixture. Finally, add the sifted powdered sugar to the saucepan and whisk until the glaze is smooth and uniform.
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Dip the tops of the warm doughnuts into the chocolate glaze, ensuring an even coating. Immediately invert the doughnuts and place them on a wire rack set over a sheet pan to allow any excess glaze to drip off. If desired, decorate with your choice of sprinkles while the glaze is still wet to ensure they adhere. Let the chocolate glaze set for at least 30 minutes before serving, allowing it to firm up and create a beautiful finish.
Video Tutorial
Chef’s Notes & Tips
Helpful Notes for Perfect Doughnuts:
- Best Enjoyed Fresh: These homemade yeast-raised doughnuts are truly at their peak on the day they are made. The warm, fluffy texture and fresh toppings are unparalleled.
- Storage: If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will generally stay fresh and delicious for about 3-5 days.
- Topping Yield: Please note that each individual topping recipe provided is designed to make enough to generously cover the entire batch of 12 doughnuts. This gives you the flexibility to choose your favorite or make a full batch of one kind.
- Nutrition Information: The provided nutrition information is calculated based on using the cinnamon-sugar topping only and should be considered an estimate. Nutritional values will vary with different toppings.
Disclosure: This recipe was developed in partnership with Red Star Yeast. All opinions expressed are genuinely my own, as always. Your support for partnerships with brands I truly believe in is greatly appreciated.