Sugar Donuts: A Simple Joy From The Joy-Filled Kitchen

---

How to Prepare the Oil for Sugar Donuts

Start by heating your oil – this is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown exterior for your donuts. Pour enough vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed pot to reach about an inch in depth. Heat it over medium-high heat until it reaches 365°F. Don’t skip the thermometer here – it’s your best friend for consistent results. Too cool, and your donuts will be greasy; too hot, and they’ll brown before cooking through.

How to Make the Dough for Sugar Donuts

While your oil heats, let’s prepare the dough for your donuts. In a large bowl, whisk together:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

¼ cup sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

In another bowl, combine:

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 tablespoons melted butter

Pour your wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Overmixing will make your donuts tough. Your dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. If it’s too sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time until it reaches the right consistency.

How to Shape Sugar Donuts to Perfection

Turn your dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll it to a ½-inch thickness. Using a donut cutter (or two round cutters), cut out your donuts and holes. Dip your cutter in flour between cuts to prevent sticking. Place the shaped donuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet while you heat the oil.

How to Fry Sugar Donuts Correctly

Once your oil hits that perfect 365°F, gently lower no more than three sugar donuts into the oil at a time. Fry for about 1 minute per side, or until golden brown. Use a spider strainer or slotted spoon to remove the donuts, placing them on a paper towel-lined cooling rack.

How to Coat Donuts Perfectly

While the donuts are still warm (but not hot), roll them in granulated sugar. Timing is crucial here – if the donuts cool too much, the sugar won’t stick properly. For a delightful variation, try mixing some cinnamon into your sugar for a classic cinnamon-sugar coating.

Pro Tips for Making Donuts

1. Monitor oil temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil at 365°F for perfectly fried donuts.

2. Don’t overmix: Overworking the dough leads to tougher donuts.

3. Freshness matters: These donuts are best enjoyed fresh, within hours of making them.

FAQs

1. Can I bake donuts instead of frying them?

Yes! Use a donut pan and bake at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, then roll in sugar.

2. How do I store leftover donuts?

Place them in an airtight container for up to 2 days, but they’re best enjoyed fresh.

3. Can I freeze donuts?

Absolutely! Freeze uncoated donuts, then reheat and roll in sugar before serving.

Share the Joy of Donuts

There’s something special about sharing homemade sugar donuts with people you love. Whether paired with coffee or hot cocoa, these treats are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s create donut magic together.

Cooking should always bring joy, and with this easy homemade sugar donuts recipe, you’re one step closer to happiness in every bite. Try it today, and let us know how it turns out in the comments below!

Pink Donuts: The Ultimate Recipe for a Sweet Treat