Italian Donuts – The Best Homemade Donuts Recipe

Ingredients

• • All-Purpose Flour: 3½ cups (450 g)

• • Dry Yeast: 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet)
  • Granulated Sugar: ⅓ cup (65 g)
  • Salt: ½ teaspoon

• • Milk: ¾ cup (180 ml), warm
  • Butter: ¼ cup (60 g), softened
  • Eggs: 2 large

• • Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
  • Vegetable Oil: For frying
  • Powdered Sugar or Granulated Sugar: For dusting

Directions

• • Prepare the Dough:
    • • In a small bowl, dissolve the dry yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar in the warm milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
      • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
      • Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.

  • Let the Dough Rise:
    • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

• • Shape the Donuts:
    • Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface to about ½-inch thickness.
    • Use a donut cutter or two round cutters (one larger, one smaller) to cut out donut shapes. Re-roll the scraps as needed.

• Second Rise:
  • Place the cut donuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover loosely, and let them rise for another 30 minutes until slightly puffy.
• Fry the Donuts:
  • • Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the donuts in batches, 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown.
  • Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
• Dust and Serve:
  • • While still warm, dust the donuts with powdered sugar or roll them in granulated sugar. Serve immediately.

5 Serving Suggestions

• • Serve with a side of Nutella or jam for dipping.
  • Fill the donuts with custard, pastry cream, or chocolate ganache.

• • Enjoy with a cup of espresso or cappuccino for a classic Italian experience.
  • Top with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of crushed nuts.
  • Serve as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla gelato.

5 Cooking Tips

• • Use warm (not hot) milk to activate the yeast effectively.
  • Ensure the oil is at the correct frying temperature to avoid soggy donuts.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying to maintain even cooking.

• For a fluffier texture, allow the dough to rise fully during both proofing stages.
• Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature for consistent results.

Nutritional Benefits

• • Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients.

• Milk: Adds calcium and a slight creaminess to the dough.
• Butter: Enhances flavor and adds richness.

Dietary Information

• • Vegetarian: Yes

• Gluten-Free: No (substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version)
• Dairy-Free: No (use dairy-free milk and butter for a dairy-free option)

Nutritional Facts (Per Donut)

• • Calories: 220 kcal

• • Protein: 5g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g

• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 8g