Simple Vanilla Donuts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it is easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients. The dough becomes perfectly airy, and the donuts turn out soft and light every time.

I also enjoy how versatile these donuts are. I can coat them in sugar, dip them in chocolate, or simply enjoy them warm with coffee or tea.

Ingredients

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

75 ml milk
7 g instant yeast
25 g white sugar
16 g vanilla sugar
150 g vanilla pudding
1 egg
45 g butter
450 g flour
16 g baking powder
4 g salt
Granulated sugar, for coating

Directions

I start by combining the lukewarm milk, instant yeast, vanilla sugar, and white sugar in a deep bowl. I mix everything well and let it rest for about 5 minutes.

I add the vanilla pudding and mix until smooth. Then I gradually pour in the beaten egg while continuing to mix.

Next, I add the butter, flour, baking powder, and salt. I knead the dough for about 10 to 12 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

I cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

I place the dough onto a floured surface and roll it out to about 1.5 cm thick.

Using a knife or pizza cutter, I cut the dough into pieces and place them slightly apart. I let them rise again for about 30 minutes.

I heat a layer of sunflower oil in a frying pan to about 175°C and fry the donuts on both sides until golden brown.

After frying, I place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Sometimes I roll them in granulated sugar before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 24 donuts
Prep time: 3 hours
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 3 hours 40 minutes

Variations

I sometimes coat the donuts with cinnamon sugar for extra warmth and flavor. Chocolate lovers can dip the donuts in melted chocolate after frying.

For a stronger vanilla flavor, I like adding a little vanilla extract to the dough.

Storage/Reheating

I store the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

To make them soft again, I warm them in the microwave for about 10 seconds each.

FAQs

Can I bake these donuts instead of frying them?

Yes, but frying gives the donuts a softer texture and classic donut flavor.

Can I use fresh yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, I can substitute fresh yeast, but I use a larger quantity than instant yeast.

Why does the dough need to rise twice?

The double rise helps create soft, fluffy donuts with a light texture.

What oil works best for frying?

I prefer using sunflower oil because it has a neutral flavor.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes, I can refrigerate the dough overnight and continue the recipe the next day.

Conclusion

These simple vanilla donuts are soft, fluffy, and full of sweet vanilla flavor. I love making them when I want a comforting homemade treat that everyone enjoys. Whether coated in sugar or enjoyed plain, they always turn out delicious.