15-Minute Homemade Donuts

If you’re craving something sweet, warm, and utterly delicious, then look no further! These 15-Minute Homemade Donuts are not only quick to make but also incredibly satisfying. Imagine biting into a fluffy, freshly fried donut, coated in sugar and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy morning at home, these donuts will surely impress!

Why Cooks Rave About It

There’s something magical about homemade donuts. They’re warm, customizable, and can be made in a snap! The best part? You don’t need any fancy baking skills or equipment to whip up these treats. In just 15 minutes, you can create sweet, satisfying donuts that will make your kitchen smell heavenly. Plus, you can enjoy them fresh out of the fryer, which is a treat that store-bought options simply can’t compete with!

The Ingredient Lineup

To create these delightful donuts, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 1/4 cups (176g) all-purpose flour (scoop and level to measure)
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) buttermilk
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 3 Tbsp (42g) melted butter
• 3 – 4 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1/3 cup (66g) granulated sugar (for coating)

Equipment & Tools

Before you start frying up those delicious donuts, gather the following tools:

• Deep frying pan or Dutch oven: For frying the donuts evenly.
• Slotted spoon: To safely remove the donuts from the hot oil.
• Thermometer: To monitor the oil temperature for perfect frying.
• Mixing bowls: For combining the dry and wet ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.

15-Minute Homemade Donuts: From Prep to Plate

Making these 15-Minute Homemade Donuts is a breeze. Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Oil

In a deep frying pan or Dutch oven, heat 3 to 4 cups of vegetable oil over medium heat. Use a thermometer to check that the oil reaches about 350°F (175°C). This is the ideal temperature for frying donuts.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Ensure that all dry ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix 1/2 cup of buttermilk, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 3 tablespoons of melted butter. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to denser donuts.

Step 5: Shape the Donuts

Using your hands or a small ice cream scoop, portion out the dough and shape it into small balls. If you prefer, you can use a donut cutter to create traditional donut shapes.

Step 6: Fry the Donuts

Once the oil is hot, carefully drop the shaped dough into the oil. Fry the donuts for about 1-2 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to flip them halfway through.

Step 7: Drain and Sugar Coat

Remove the donuts from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. While they’re still warm, roll them in the remaining 1/3 cup of granulated sugar until fully coated.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Your 15-Minute Homemade Donuts are ready to be devoured! Serve them warm for the best experience, and feel free to experiment with toppings or glazes if you wish.

Make It Fit Your Plan

These donuts are versatile and can be adjusted to fit various dietary preferences:

• Gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
• Dairy-free: Use a dairy-free milk alternative in place of buttermilk.
• Flavor variations: Add a dash of vanilla extract or cinnamon for extra flavor.
• Decorations: Top with chocolate glaze or sprinkles for a festive touch.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

To ensure your donuts turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Make sure your oil is at the correct temperature; too hot can burn the donuts, while too cool can make them greasy.
• For a fun twist, try adding different flavorings to the batter, like almond extract or citrus zest.
• If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make your own by adding a tablespoon of vinegar to regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

While these 15-Minute Homemade Donuts are best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers for later:

• Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the cooled donuts individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to a month.
• To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Why are my donuts greasy?

If your donuts are greasy, it may be because the oil was not hot enough when frying. Ensure the oil reaches the right temperature before adding the donuts.

What if my donuts are dense?

Overmixing the batter can lead to dense donuts. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.

How can I tell when my donuts are done frying?

Donuts should be golden brown and float to the surface of the oil when they’re done. Use a slotted spoon to check their color.

Can I flavor the donut dough?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spices, extracts, or citrus zest to the dough for added flavor. Just make sure not to overdo it!

Quick Weeknight Wins

If you love quick and easy recipes, you might also enjoy these delicious treats:

• Apple Cider Doughnuts – A fall favorite that’s just as quick!
• Apple Cider Doughnut Cake – A spin on classic flavors in cake form.
• Chocolate Chip Cookies – The ultimate classic cookie, perfect for any occasion.

Final Thoughts

There’s no need to wait for a special occasion to indulge in a warm, fluffy donut. With just a few simple ingredients and 15 minutes of your time, you can create a delightful treat that everyone will love. Whether you enjoy them plain or jazzed up with your favorite toppings, these 15-Minute Homemade Donuts are bound to become a staple in your kitchen. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get frying! Enjoy the sweet moments that come with each delicious bite.