Quick & Simple Donut Recipe

This quick and simple donut recipe is one I turn to when I want fresh, warm donuts without spending hours in the kitchen. They come out golden, soft, and slightly crispy on the outside, with that classic sweet flavor that makes homemade donuts so satisfying. I like that I can make them with basic ingredients I usually have on hand.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because it’s straightforward, fast, and doesn’t require any complicated techniques. I like that I can fry or them depending on my mood, and I can customize them with glazes, sugar coatings, or sprinkles. They’re perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even a fun weekend treat when I want something homemade but easy.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour

• Baking powder

• Granulated sugar

• Salt

• Milk

• Egg

• Butter, melted

• Vanilla extract

• Oil (for frying)

• Optional toppings: cinnamon sugar, powdered sugar, glaze, or sprinkles

Directions

1. I whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt in a bowl.

2. In another bowl, I mix the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla.

3. I combine the wet and dry ingredients to form a soft dough.

4. I roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut out donut shapes (using a cutter or two round objects).

5. I heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F and carefully fry the donuts a few at a time until golden brown, about 1–2 minutes per side.

6. I remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

7. While still warm, I coat them in cinnamon sugar, powdered sugar, or dip them in glaze.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 donuts. It usually takes me 15 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook, so I can have them ready in around 30 minutes.

Variations

• I sometimes bake them in a donut pan at 375°F for about 10 minutes instead of frying for a lighter version.

• For chocolate donuts, I add cocoa powder to the batter.

• I like filling them with jam, Nutella, or custard by cutting them thicker and injecting the filling after frying.

• A maple glaze or chocolate icing with sprinkles makes them feel like a bakery treat.

storage/reheating

I store donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, I pop them in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes. I don’t recommend freezing fried donuts, but baked ones freeze a little better.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, I sometimes prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight, then fry fresh in the morning.

Do I need a deep fryer to make donuts?

No, I use a heavy-bottomed pot or skillet with oil, and it works just as well.

How do I know the oil is hot enough?

I use a thermometer, but if I don’t have one, I drop in a small piece of dough—if it sizzles and floats, the oil is ready.

Can I make mini donuts with this recipe?

Yes, I cut the dough smaller and fry for slightly less time. They’re great for parties or bite-sized snacking.

What glaze works best?

I like a simple powdered sugar glaze with milk and vanilla, but chocolate glaze or maple glaze are delicious too.

Conclusion

This quick and simple donut recipe is one of my go-to sweet treats when I want something homemade but easy. I like that I can fry or bake them, change up the flavors, and finish them with any topping I’m in the mood for. Fresh, warm donuts never last long in my kitchen, and this recipe makes them possible any day of the week.