American Sugar Donuts are soft, fluffy, and sweet, offering a perfect balance of texture and flavor. Coated in a simple sugar coating, these donuts are a nostalgic treat loved by many. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of coffee in the morning or serving them at a family gathering, these donuts are sure to bring comfort and joy to anyone who takes a bite. The best part? They are incredibly easy to make at home and will fill your kitchen with a delightful, irresistible aroma.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These American Sugar Donuts are a simple yet indulgent treat, with their tender, fluffy texture and sugary coating. They are the perfect combination of sweetness and softness, offering a satisfying bite in every piece. Whether you fry or bake them, these donuts are versatile and easy to make, with minimal ingredients. The sugar coating gives them a delightful crunch and sweetness that’s impossible to resist. If you love homemade donuts, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients

For the donuts:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 2 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

• 1/2 cup whole milk

• 2 large eggs

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Vegetable oil (for frying, or use a donut pan if baking)

For the sugar coating:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

If frying:

1. Prepare the donut dough:

   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground nutmeg.

   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.

   • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until the dough comes together. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.

2. Roll out the dough:

   • On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness.

   • Using a donut cutter, round cookie cutter, or two different-sized cookie cutters, cut out the donuts and holes. (You can also use a glass for the outer shape and a smaller round cutter for the center hole.)

3. Heat the oil:

   • In a deep frying pan or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat to about 350°F (175°C). The oil should be deep enough to submerge the donuts.

4. Fry the donuts:

   • Carefully drop the donuts into the hot oil, frying them in batches so they don’t overcrowd the pan.

   • Fry the donuts for 1-2 minutes per side or until they are golden brown and crisp.

   • Use a slotted spoon to remove the donuts from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

5. Coat in sugar:

   • In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon (if using).

   • While the donuts are still warm, toss them in the sugar mixture until they are evenly coated.

6. Serve:

   • Serve the donuts warm and enjoy their fluffy, sugary goodness!

If baking:

1. Prepare the donut batter:

   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a donut pan.

   • Follow the same steps as above to prepare the donut dough.

2. Fill the donut pan:

   • Spoon the donut batter into the donut pan, filling each well about 2/3 full.

   • Smooth the tops with a spatula.

3. Bake the donuts:

   • Bake the donuts for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

   • Let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

4. Coat in sugar:

   • Mix the sugar and cinnamon in a bowl.

   • While the donuts are still slightly warm, toss them in the sugar mixture until fully coated.

5. Serve:

   • Serve and enjoy the delicious homemade sugar donuts!

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 12-15 donuts, depending on size.

• Preparation time: 15-20 minutes

• Cooking time (frying): 1-2 minutes per batch

• Cooking time (baking): 10-12 minutes

• Total time: Approximately 30 minutes

Variations

• Glazed donuts: For a different finish, you can dip the warm donuts in a simple glaze made of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.

• Chocolate-covered donuts: Dip the cooled donuts in melted chocolate for a sweet, chocolatey coating.

• Maple donuts: Add a bit of maple extract to the sugar coating or glaze for a maple-flavored twist.

• Filled donuts: After frying, use a pastry bag to inject your donuts with jam, chocolate, or cream for a filled donut treat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed fresh but will stay soft for a little while.

• Reheating: To refresh leftover donuts, warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make these donuts in advance?

These sugar donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but you can make them a day ahead and store them in an airtight container. Reheat them before serving to restore their softness.

Can I make these donuts without a donut cutter?

Yes! If you don’t have a donut cutter, you can use a large round cookie cutter and a smaller one to cut the holes, or simply shape them into round balls and fry or bake them as donut holes.

Can I use a different oil for frying?

You can use any neutral oil with a high smoke point for frying, such as canola oil, sunflower oil, or vegetable oil.

Can I make these donuts gluten-free?

Yes, you can make gluten-free sugar donuts by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend you use includes xanthan gum to help the dough hold together.

How do I get the perfect crispy texture?

To get that crispy, golden texture, ensure the oil temperature is at 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too hot or too cold, the donuts may not cook evenly. Use a thermometer to maintain the right temperature.

Can I bake these without a donut pan?

Yes, if you don’t have a donut pan, you can shape the dough into rounds and bake them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, or even shape them into donut holes for a fun bite-sized version.

Can I add filling to these donuts?

Yes! After frying or baking, you can inject the donuts with your favorite fillings, such as jelly, custard, or chocolate cream, using a pastry bag fitted with a large tip.

Conclusion

American Sugar Donuts are a classic treat that brings comfort and sweetness to any occasion. Whether you’re frying or baking them, the light, fluffy texture and sugary coating make them irresistibly delicious. They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a special indulgence any time of the day. With their simple ingredients and easy preparation, these homemade donuts are sure to be a hit with family and friends, providing a comforting and delightful experience with every bite.

Print