Perfect Homemade Powdered Sugar Donuts Recipe

Powdered sugar donuts, also known as sugar-dusted delights, offer a heavenly combination of soft, fluffy texture with a sweet, snowy finish. These treats begin as rounds of dough, meticulously mixed from flour, sugar, eggs, and butter, then deep-fried to achieve a golden, pillowy perfection. The magic happens post-frying, when these warm pastries are liberally coated in a fine mist of powdered sugar, creating a melt-in-your-mouth sensation that’s both gratifying and addictive.

Beloved worldwide, powdered sugar donuts have a universal appeal that transcends age and culture. They serve as a perfect companion to morning coffee or as a sweet snack to brighten a midday slump. Their simple yet irresistible charm makes them a staple in bakeries and breakfast tables alike. These donuts aren’t just treats; they are a nostalgic nod to childhood kitchens and the joy of a snowy sugar kiss on the lips, making them a timeless favorite in the world of confections. Whether enjoyed alone or shared among friends, each bite of a powdered sugar donut is a little sprinkle of joy.

Kitchen Tools Needed

Mixing Bowls: For combining the dough and sugar coating ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients.
Dough Mixer or Hand Mixer: To thoroughly mix the dough, although you can mix by hand.
Rolling Pin: For rolling out the dough to an even thickness.
Doughnut Cutter: To cut out perfect doughnut shapes; alternatively, a large and a small round cutter can be used.
Deep Fryer or Heavy-Bottomed Pot: For frying the donuts to golden perfection.
Tongs or Slotted Spoon: For safely turning and removing donuts from hot oil.
Cooling Rack: To drain excess oil and cool the donuts before sugaring.
Sifter or Fine Mesh Sieve: For evenly dusting powdered sugar over the donuts.
Kitchen Thermometer: To monitor the oil temperature for optimal frying.

Ingredients for Powdered Sugar Donuts

250g (2 cups) All-Purpose Flour: Provides the base structure for the dough.
50g (1/4 cup) Granulated Sugar: To sweeten the dough.
1 tsp Baking Powder: Helps the dough rise during frying.
1/2 tsp Salt: Enhances flavor.
1/4 tsp Nutmeg: Adds a warm, nutty flavor.
2 tbsp Unsalted Butter, melted: Adds richness and tenderness to the dough.
120ml (1/2 cup) Whole Milk: Moistens and binds the dough.
1 Large Egg: Provides structure and richness.
1 tsp Vanilla Extract: Enhances flavor.
Vegetable Oil: For deep frying; amount will vary depending on the size of your pot or fryer.
100g (1 cup) Powdered Sugar: For coating the cooked donuts.

How To Make Donuts?

Preparing the Dough

Start by sifting together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg in a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, whole milk, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms. If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour until it’s manageable but still soft.

Rolling and Cutting the Donuts

On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness. Using a doughnut cutter or a large and a small round cutter, cut out the doughnut shapes. Remove the excess dough around the shapes and save it to re-roll and cut more donuts.

Frying the Donuts

Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Carefully place a few doughnuts at a time into the hot oil using tongs or a slotted spoon. Fry the donuts for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Use the tongs or slotted spoon to remove the donuts from the oil and transfer them to a cooling rack placed over a layer of paper towels to drain.

Coating with Powdered Sugar

Once the donuts have cooled slightly but are still warm, sift powdered sugar over all sides of each donut. An even layer of sugar is crucial for that classic snowy look. It’s best to do this while the donuts are still a bit warm to ensure the sugar adheres well.

Serving

Serve the powdered sugar donuts warm for the best flavor and texture. They pair beautifully with coffee or a cold glass of milk. These donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for a day or two, though they may lose some of their crispness.

What to serve with Powdered Sugar Donuts?

Fresh Berries: A bowl of vibrant, fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries adds a refreshing and slightly tart contrast to the sweetness of the donuts.
Whipped Cream: Serve each donut with a dollop of light, fluffy whipped cream for a rich and creamy addition.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle rich chocolate sauce over the donuts for a decadent touch.
Maple Syrup: A light drizzle of maple syrup can enhance the sweetness and add a distinct flavor profile.
Coffee or Hot Chocolate: A hot beverage such as a robust coffee or a rich hot chocolate makes a cozy and comforting pairing.
Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream alongside warm donuts creates a delightful treat, especially good for dessert.
Caramel Dip: Offer a small bowl of caramel dip to add a sticky, sweet layer to the fluffy texture of the donuts.
Nutella: A spread of Nutella can be a wonderful complement for those who love a hint of hazelnut with their sweets.
Cinnamon Sugar: For an extra spice kick, a mix of cinnamon and sugar available for sprinkling can enhance the existing flavors.
Lemon Curd: A tangy lemon curd can cut through the sweetness and add a fresh, citrusy element to the dish.

Tips and Tricks

Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the frying oil at a consistent temperature of 375°F to ensure the donuts cook evenly without absorbing excess oil. Use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the temperature.
Do Not Overcrowd the Fryer: Fry the donuts in small batches to avoid a drop in oil temperature. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and oilier donuts.
Test with a Small Piece of Dough: Before frying the entire batch, test the oil with a small piece of dough. It should sizzle and float to the top quickly if the oil is at the right temperature.
Use Fresh Baking Powder: Ensure your baking powder is active for the dough to rise properly. Test its effectiveness by mixing a small amount with hot water; if it bubbles, it’s good to use.
Roll Dough Evenly: When rolling out the dough, aim for an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking. Uneven donuts might cook irregularly.
Sift the Powdered Sugar: For a smooth and even coating, sift the powdered sugar over the donuts while they are still warm. This helps the sugar adhere better and gives a more professional finish.
Let Excess Oil Drip Off: After frying, let the donuts rest on a cooling rack with paper towels underneath to catch any drips of oil. This step prevents the donuts from becoming soggy.
Flavor the Sugar: For a variation, mix a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract into the powdered sugar before coating to add a subtle new flavor dimension.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ingredients like milk and eggs should be at room temperature to mix more thoroughly into the dough, resulting in a smoother texture.
Re-roll Scraps Only Once: When re-rolling dough scraps, do so sparingly. Overworked dough can become tough, so try to get as many donuts as possible from the first roll.

Variations

Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: Instead of powdered sugar, roll the warm donuts in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon for a spiced twist.
Lemon Glaze Donuts: Replace the powdered sugar coating with a zesty lemon glaze made from powdered sugar, lemon juice, and a bit of lemon zest.
Chocolate Dipped Donuts: Dip half of each donut into melted chocolate and allow to set for a chocolatey variation.
Filled Donuts: Inject the centers of the donuts with jams, custard, or chocolate spread before dusting with powdered sugar.
Mini Donut Bites: Instead of standard-sized donuts, make bite-sized versions for a fun, snackable treat.
Vegan Donuts: Use plant-based milk and a vegan egg substitute, and ensure the sugar is vegan to cater to dietary restrictions.
Espresso Donuts: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the dough mix for a coffee-flavored donut.

Substitutions

Gluten-Free Flour: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour to make the donuts suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Coconut Oil: Substitute vegetable oil with coconut oil in the dough for a hint of coconut flavor.
Almond Milk: Replace cow’s milk with almond milk or any other non-dairy milk for a dairy-free version.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Swap granulated sugar in the dough with an equal amount of honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
Egg Replacer: Use a commercial egg replacer or a flax egg (ground flaxseed mixed with water) to make the recipe vegan.
Spiced Sugar Coating: Mix the powdered sugar with ground cardamom, cloves, or nutmeg for a warmly spiced coating.

Making ahead, Storage and Reheating

Making Ahead

Prepare Dough in Advance: The dough for powdered sugar donuts can be made a day ahead and kept covered in the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature before rolling out and frying.
Pre-Cut Shapes: You can also roll out and cut the donut shapes, then store them between layers of parchment paper in an airtight container in the fridge overnight.

Storage

Room Temperature: Store the cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best eaten within 24 hours, as they will start to lose their softness and the sugar may begin to dissolve.
Refrigerate: For longer storage, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Note that refrigeration can cause the powdered sugar to dissolve slightly.
Freezing: Freeze donuts without the powdered sugar coating. Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-lock freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating and then coat with powdered sugar.

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Reheating

Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the donuts on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps restore some of the donuts’ original texture.
Microwave: For a quick reheat, place a donut on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds. Be cautious as microwaving can make the donuts slightly chewy.
Air Fryer: Reheat donuts in an air fryer at 350°F for 1-2 minutes. This method can help re-crisp the donuts slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ’s

To prevent powdered sugar from melting into the donuts, ensure the donuts are not too hot when you apply the sugar. Allow them to cool just enough that they’re warm but not hot. Additionally, using a finer grade of powdered sugar and sifting it lightly over the donuts can also help.

Yes, you can make powdered sugar donuts without a deep fryer by using a heavy-bottomed pot or a large skillet. Fill it with enough oil to submerge the donuts and use a thermometer to maintain the correct temperature. This method requires careful monitoring to ensure even cooking and safety.

Absolutely! To make vegan powdered sugar donuts, substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative like almond or soy milk, use a vegan butter or coconut oil, and replace the egg with a flax egg or commercial egg replacer. Ensure the powdered sugar is vegan, as some brands use bone char in the processing.

The best oils for frying powdered sugar donuts are those with a high smoke point and neutral flavor, such as canola, vegetable, or peanut oil. These oils ensure that the donuts cook thoroughly without absorbing unwanted flavors.

Powdered sugar donuts are best enjoyed within the first 24 hours of making them as they are freshest then. However, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Beyond that, the texture and taste may not be as pleasant, although they are still safe to eat if stored properly.

Powdered Sugar Donuts

Recipe by JesseCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

250g (2 cups) All-Purpose Flour: Provides the base structure for the dough.
50g (1/4 cup) Granulated Sugar: To sweeten the dough.
1 tsp Baking Powder: Helps the dough rise during frying.
1/2 tsp Salt: Enhances flavor.
1/4 tsp Nutmeg: Adds a warm, nutty flavor.
2 tbsp Unsalted Butter, melted: Adds richness and tenderness to the dough.
120ml (1/2 cup) Whole Milk: Moistens and binds the dough.
1 Large Egg: Provides structure and richness.
1 tsp Vanilla Extract: Enhances flavor.
Vegetable Oil: For deep frying; amount will vary depending on the size of your pot or fryer.
100g (1 cup) Powdered Sugar: For coating the cooked donuts.

Directions

Start by sifting together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg in a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, whole milk, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms. If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour until it’s manageable but still soft.
On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness. Using a doughnut cutter or a large and a small round cutter, cut out the doughnut shapes. Remove the excess dough around the shapes and save it to re-roll and cut more donuts.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Carefully place a few doughnuts at a time into the hot oil using tongs or a slotted spoon. Fry the donuts for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Use the tongs or slotted spoon to remove the donuts from the oil and transfer them to a cooling rack placed over a layer of paper towels to drain.
Once the donuts have cooled slightly but are still warm, sift powdered sugar over all sides of each donut. An even layer of sugar is crucial for that classic snowy look. It’s best to do this while the donuts are still a bit warm to ensure the sugar adheres well.
Serve the powdered sugar donuts warm for the best flavor and texture. They pair beautifully with coffee or a cold glass of milk. These donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for a day or two, though they may lose some of their crispness.

Conclusion

Powdered sugar donuts are a delightful treat that combines the simple pleasures of a fluffy, warm doughnut with the sweet, delicate finish of powdered sugar. These donuts offer a nostalgic taste that evokes fond memories and creates new ones, making them a favorite across generations and cultures. The versatility of powdered sugar donuts allows for various adaptations, whether through different flavorings, dietary adjustments, or toppings, catering to a wide range of preferences.

Despite their indulgence, the process of making these donuts at home can be a fun and rewarding experience, allowing for personalization and the joy of sharing with loved ones. Whether served at a gathering, as a special breakfast, or as a treat to brighten a day, powdered sugar donuts undoubtedly leave a lasting impression with their irresistible charm.

Perfect Homemade Powdered Sugar Donuts Recipe

Kitchen Tools Needed

Ingredients for Powdered Sugar Donuts