Go Back
Soft Donut Recipe
Dominique

Soft Donut Recipe

This Soft Donut Recipe brings light, airy donuts with a delicate sweetness that are perfect for brightening your mornings or afternoons.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 3/4 cup warm whole milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk or water (for glaze)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)

Method
 

  1. Activate the yeast by combining warm milk, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and yeast in a large mixing bowl. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Whisk in melted butter, eggs, remaining sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  3. Gradually add flour and salt to the wet ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough either by hand or with a stand mixer until smooth and elastic, about 7-10 minutes.
  5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
  6. Punch down the dough, optionally refrigerate for 30 minutes, then roll it out to about 1/2 inch thickness.
  7. Cut donuts and place them on parchment squares, allowing to rise again for 30-45 minutes.
  8. Heat oil in a pot to 350-360°F (175-180°C) and carefully fry the donuts for 1-2 minutes per side until golden.
  9. Drain on a wire rack and prepare the glaze by whisking powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
  10. Dip warm donuts in the glaze and allow to set before serving.

Notes

Ensure yeast is fresh and activate it properly to achieve the best rise. Maintain oil temperature for optimal frying.