Simple Homemade Sugar Donuts

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Light, fluffy, and perfectly sweet—just like grandma used to make!

Introduction

There’s something magical about freshly fried donuts—warm, golden, and coated in a crisp layer of sugar. These Simple Homemade Sugar Donuts bring back that nostalgic bakery-style taste with just a few basic ingredients and minimal effort. Unlike yeast donuts, this recipe uses baking powder for a quick rise, making them ready in under 30 minutes.

Perfect for weekend breakfasts, special treats, or impromptu cravings, these donuts are light, slightly cakey, and irresistibly delicious. Serve them warm with a dusting of cinnamon sugar, a drizzle of glaze, or enjoy them plain—they’re versatile and foolproof.

Ingredients

For the Donuts

  • 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
  • ⅓ cup (65g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup (120ml) milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp (30g) butter, melted

For Frying & Coating

  • Vegetable oil (for frying, about 2 cups)
  • ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar (for coating)

(Optional: 1 tsp cinnamon for cinnamon-sugar coating)

(Makes 8–10 small donuts)

Instructions

1. Make the Dough

  1. In a bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  2. In another bowl, mix milk, egg, vanilla, and melted butter.
  3. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir just until combined (don’t overmix).

2. Heat the Oil

  1. In a deep pot, heat 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C).

3. Shape & Fry

  1. Drop heaping tablespoons of batter into the hot oil (or pipe circles using a ziplock bag).
  2. Fry for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown.
  3. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

4. Coat in Sugar

  1. While still warm, roll donuts in sugar (or cinnamon sugar).

5. Serve Warm!

  • Best enjoyed fresh. Pair with coffee or hot chocolate.

Tips for Perfect Donuts

✔ Oil temperature is key—use a thermometer for accuracy.
✔ Don’t overcrowd the pot—fry in batches for even cooking.
✔ No piping bag? Use two spoons to drop batter into oil.
✔ Storage: Best eaten same day (reheat briefly for freshness).

Serving Suggestions

  • Dust with powdered sugar for a classic touch.
  • Dip in chocolate or caramel glaze for extra indulgence.
  • Serve with fruit jam or Nutella for dipping.

Conclusion

These Simple Homemade Sugar Donuts prove that delicious treats don’t need to be complicated. With a soft interior, crispy edges, and sweet sugar coating, they’re a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s easy enough for beginners.

Perfect for lazy weekends or spontaneous baking adventures!

Variation: Add ½ tsp nutmeg or lemon zest to the batter for extra flavor.

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