Perfect Yeast Doughnuts: The Ultimate Recipe for Fluffy, Light Treats

Yeast doughnuts are one of the most beloved breakfast or dessert items you can make at home. Their soft, airy texture paired with a delicate sweetness makes them irresistibly delicious. If you’ve ever dreamed of making a batch of fresh, light, and fluffy doughnuts, this Perfect Yeast Doughnuts recipe is for you! This recipe creates doughnuts that rival those from your favorite bakery, but with the added satisfaction of knowing you made them yourself.

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These doughnuts are light and fluffy, with a soft, chewy texture that melts in your mouth. Whether you prefer them simple, coated in sugar, or filled with rich jam, chocolate hazelnut spread, or fresh whipped cream, these doughnuts are bound to impress every time. Here’s everything you need to know to create these delightful treats.

The Allure of Yeast Doughnuts

There’s something magical about a fresh doughnut—especially one made from scratch. The light and fluffy texture that comes from yeast is like no other. Yeast doughnuts, when made properly, have a soft, pillowy crumb that’s light yet satisfying, and they’re simply a joy to eat.

This particular Perfect Yeast Doughnuts recipe is designed to create doughnuts that are light, fluffy, and delicious. With every bite, you’ll experience the richness of butter and buttermilk, the sweetness of sugar, and the delicate aroma of freshly fried dough. The yeast rises slowly, adding depth to the flavor, while the dough is kneaded to perfection to create that signature airy texture.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone who’s looking to dip your toes into the world of doughnut-making, this recipe provides a simple yet rewarding experience. It’s easy to follow, and you’ll end up with doughnuts that are absolutely perfect for any occasion—be it a weekend treat, a family breakfast, or a special celebration.

The Ingredients Breakdown

Each component of the doughnut is carefully selected to ensure a balanced flavor and the perfect texture. Here’s a breakdown of what goes into these perfect yeast doughnuts:

Doughnut Dough

• 6 Tbsp (90 ml) water: Water activates the yeast, helping the dough rise.
• 5 oz buttermilk (150 ml): Buttermilk adds a subtle tanginess and richness to the dough, helping create a soft crumb and tender texture.
• 1 egg, beaten: The egg binds the dough together, adding structure and richness.
• 2 oz (57 g) butter, melted: Butter adds flavor and moisture, making the doughnuts soft and rich.
• 16 oz (454 g) all-purpose or bread flour: Flour is the backbone of the dough, and the choice of flour helps achieve the right texture.
• 2 oz (57 g) sugar: Sugar is essential for the dough’s sweetness and to activate the yeast.
• 1 tsp salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the dough’s flavor.
• 1 1/2 tsp (5 g) regular or quick-rise yeast: Yeast is the magic ingredient that makes these doughnuts light and airy.
• Oil for frying: You’ll need oil for frying, such as sunflower or grapeseed oil, which has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor. You can also use a deep fryer, wok, or a large pot for frying.
• Sugar for coating: The sugar coating gives the doughnuts that signature sweet crunch.

Optional Fillings (if desired):

• Jam: Fruit jams (like strawberry or raspberry) add a sweet and tangy flavor to the doughnuts. You can use your favorite jam variety.
• Chocolate hazelnut spread (Nutella): Nutella is a rich, creamy filling that pairs perfectly with doughnuts for a decadent treat.
• Whipped cream: Fresh whipped cream can be piped into the doughnuts for a lighter, airy filling that contrasts beautifully with the fried dough.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making doughnuts at home may seem intimidating, but it’s actually quite simple if you follow these step-by-step instructions. From preparing the dough to frying and coating, every step is easy to follow.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

For the bread machine method:

1. Place the liquid ingredients in the pan: Start by adding the water, buttermilk, beaten egg, and melted butter into the bread machine pan.
2. Add the dry ingredients: Measure out the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Add the dry ingredients into the bread machine, but make a small indentation in the flour to create a well for the yeast.
3. Start the dough cycle: Set the bread machine to the dough setting and let it do the work.

For the stand mixer with dough hook method:

1. Activate the yeast: In a small cup, pour the warm water and sprinkle the yeast over it. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This will activate the yeast.
2. Combine the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center.
3. Add wet ingredients: Into the well, pour the buttermilk, beaten egg, and melted butter along with the yeast mixture. Stir everything together until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough: If using a stand mixer, knead the dough on low speed with the dough hook for about 5 minutes. If doing it by hand, knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
5. Let the dough rise: Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rise for 1 to 2 hours until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape the Doughnuts

1. Roll out the dough: Once the dough has risen, place it onto a floured surface. Roll it out to about a 1/2 inch thickness.
2. Cut out the doughnuts: Use a round cookie cutter (about 3 inches in diameter) to cut out the doughnuts. Use a smaller cutter to create the holes in the center. If you have a doughnut cutter, this will save you time.
3. Let the doughnuts rise again: Place the cut-out doughnuts on parchment paper and cover them with a cloth. Let them rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes to 1 hour until they double in size again.

Step 3: Fry the Doughnuts

1. Heat the oil: In a deep fryer or large pot, heat the oil to about 350°F (180°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping in a small piece of dough—if it sizzles and rises to the surface, it’s ready.
2. Fry the doughnuts: Carefully drop the doughnuts into the hot oil using parchment paper. Fry them for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn golden brown.
3. Drain the doughnuts: Remove the doughnuts from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined platter to drain any excess oil.

Step 4: Coat the Doughnuts

While the doughnuts are still warm, roll them in a bowl of sugar to coat them evenly. This will give them a delicious sweet exterior. You can also opt to dust them with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar for extra flavor.

Step 5: Fill the Doughnuts (Optional)

If you’re adding filling, use a skewer to make a small hole in the center of each doughnut. Then, using a piping bag, fill them with jam, chocolate hazelnut spread, or whipped cream.

Tips and Variations

• Use a Kitchen Scale: Accurate measurements are key to making perfect doughnuts, so be sure to use a kitchen scale. This ensures the right texture and consistency.
• Frying Oil: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as sunflower or grapeseed oil. This helps to avoid burning the doughnuts while frying.
• Fillings: Be creative with your fillings! Try lemon curd, custard, or even marshmallow fluff. You can also top the doughnuts with sprinkles or drizzle them with chocolate glaze for extra indulgence.
• Freezing: Doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the doughnuts for up to a month. Simply fry them, let them cool, and freeze them in an airtight container. To serve, heat them in the oven for a few minutes.

Serving Suggestions

These yeast doughnuts are perfect for a weekend brunch, special occasion, or holiday gathering. Serve them with a hot cup of coffee, a cold glass of milk, or your favorite breakfast beverage. They also make great gifts, especially if you fill them with delicious jams or spreads.

Conclusion

Making doughnuts from scratch is a rewarding experience that yields incredible results. With a soft, fluffy texture and the perfect sweetness, these Perfect Yeast Doughnuts are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the fryer, filled with your favorite fillings, or coated in sugar, each bite will remind you why homemade doughnuts are the best.

So, roll up your sleeves, grab your kitchen scale, and give this recipe a try. You won’t regret it!