Powdered Sugar Donuts

Powdered sugar donuts are a timeless classic that evokes feelings of comfort, nostalgia, and pure indulgence. These soft, pillowy treats are coated in a fine layer of delicate powdered sugar that melts on your tongue and complements the tender sweetness of the donut itself. Whether enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee in the morning or as a satisfying afternoon snack, these donuts are always a crowd-pleaser.

Perfectly golden on the outside and fluffy on the inside, powdered sugar donuts are simple yet irresistible. They’re ideal for breakfast spreads, brunch gatherings, school lunchboxes, or as a sweet ending to any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a first-time donut maker, this recipe offers an easy and reliable way to create bakery-quality results right in your own kitchen. Every bite delivers a light, airy texture paired with the gentle sweetness of powdered sugar—comfort food at its finest.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something magical about the soft texture of a freshly made donut paired with a snow-like coating of powdered sugar. These donuts are easy to make, require simple ingredients, and yield impressive results. Unlike frosted or filled donuts, powdered sugar donuts rely on the purity of their flavor and texture, making them a perfect everyday treat.

You’ll love how versatile and forgiving this recipe is. Whether you’re frying or baking, making mini donuts or full-sized, this recipe adapts beautifully. Plus, the coating possibilities don’t end at powdered sugar—you can add spices, citrus zest, or even cocoa powder to the mix for an extra layer of flavor. They store well, travel easily, and make a perfect homemade gift or party snack. Once you make a batch, they’re sure to disappear fast.

Preparation Time and Servings:

• Prep time: 20 minutes

• Resting time: 1 hour (for dough to rise)

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour 35 minutes

• Yield: 12 donuts

• Serving Size: 1 donut

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 290

• Carbohydrates: 37g

• Protein: 5g

• Fat: 14g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 15g

Ingredients

For the donut dough:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)

• 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)

• 1/4 cup sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup warm milk

• 1/4 cup warm water

• 1/4 cup butter or plant-based margarine, softened

• 1 large egg

For frying:

• Vegetable oil or other neutral oil (for deep frying)

For coating:

• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (more if needed)

• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon or lemon zest mixed into the sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the dough

• In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.

• In a separate bowl, mix warm milk, warm water, butter, and egg.

• Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients.

• Mix until a soft dough forms.

2. Knead the dough

• Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface.

• Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

• Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 5–6 minutes.

3. First rise

• Place dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover with a clean towel.

• Let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

4. Shape the donuts

• Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface.

• Roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness.

• Use a donut cutter or two round cutters (3-inch and 1-inch) to shape the donuts.

• Transfer to a parchment-lined tray and cover lightly.

5. Second rise

• Let the shaped donuts rest for 15–20 minutes to puff slightly before frying.

6. Heat the oil

• In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).

• Use a thermometer to maintain temperature during frying.

7. Fry the donuts

• Carefully place donuts into the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding.

• Fry for 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown.

• Use a slotted spoon to remove and place on a paper towel-lined tray to drain excess oil.

8. Coat with powdered sugar

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

• Alternatively, place powdered sugar in a paper bag, add donuts, and shake gently.

• If desired, mix in cinnamon or citrus zest for added flavor.

Ingredient Background

Flour forms the foundation of the dough, giving structure to the light, airy interior. Yeast is essential for leavening, creating the rise that makes donuts soft and fluffy. Milk and butter provide moisture and richness, while sugar enhances flavor and helps create a golden crust.

Powdered sugar, also known as confectioners’ sugar, is a fine, fluffy sugar that clings beautifully to warm donuts and provides a classic, gentle sweetness. Variations like cinnamon or lemon zest in the sugar coating elevate the flavor while still honoring the original charm of a traditional powdered sugar donut.

Technique Tips

Always ensure your yeast is fresh and the liquid is warm but not hot—too much heat can kill the yeast. Kneading the dough thoroughly is key to developing the gluten structure that gives donuts their bounce and texture.

Monitor your oil temperature closely—too hot and the donuts will burn on the outside while remaining raw inside; too cool and they’ll absorb excess oil. Tossing the donuts in powdered sugar while they’re still warm helps the coating stick better and form a delicate shell of sweetness.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

There are many creative ways to present powdered sugar donuts. Stack them in a pyramid on a cake stand for a donut tower centerpiece. Arrange them on a platter with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or dipping sauces like chocolate or berry compote.

For party favors, package individual donuts in wax paper bags tied with ribbon. Mini donuts can be served on skewers or donut walls for modern presentations. You can also make donut holes and serve them in bowls as bite-sized party snacks.

Additional Tips for Success

Letting the dough rise twice ensures the donuts are light and airy. If your kitchen is cool, place the dough in a warm oven (turned off) with the light on to help it rise faster.

Toss donuts in sugar immediately after frying, but not while dripping hot oil—wait a minute or two for best adhesion. If the sugar melts or clumps, toss in a second dusting after they cool slightly. Avoid stacking donuts directly on top of one another to prevent sticking.

Recipe Variations

You can add spices such as nutmeg, cardamom, or cinnamon directly into the dough for extra flavor. Replace some of the flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste and added fiber. Add a few drops of vanilla or almond extract to the dough for depth.

For a chocolate twist, roll the donuts in a blend of powdered sugar and cocoa powder. You can also make baked donuts using a donut pan—prepare the same dough, shape, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 12–15 minutes, then coat with sugar after lightly brushing with melted butter.

Freezing and Storage

Store leftover powdered sugar donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days, though texture is best on the first day.

To freeze, allow donuts to cool completely, then freeze individually on a tray before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in a warm oven and dust with fresh powdered sugar before serving to refresh the coating.

Healthier Twist Ideas

To make a lighter version, try baking the donuts instead of frying. Use a nonstick donut pan and brush lightly with oil or butter before baking. Substitute a portion of all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.

Reduce sugar in the dough slightly or skip the coating altogether for a more subtle sweetness. You can also experiment with alternative sweeteners like coconut sugar or maple powder for the coating.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Powdered sugar donuts are perfect for brunch tables, breakfast buffets, or dessert platters. Serve them with fresh berries, yogurt, and a variety of dipping sauces. Add them to a donut tower or donut wall for weddings, baby showers, or birthday parties.

They’re also a hit in treat boxes or tea parties, paired with spiced tea, coffee, or fruit-infused drinks. Mini versions are great for kids’ parties or served as favors in paper cones or boxes.

Special Equipment

• Mixing bowls

• Dough cutter or donut cutter

• Rolling pin

• Parchment paper

• Heavy-bottomed pot for frying

• Slotted spoon or tongs

• Candy thermometer

• Cooling rack

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

• Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and frying.

2. Can I bake instead of fry?

• Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, then brush with butter and coat in powdered sugar.

3. Why didn’t my donuts rise properly?

• Check your yeast and liquid temperature. Cold environments or expired yeast can hinder rising.

4. Can I use gluten-free flour?

• Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Results may be slightly denser but still tasty.

5. How do I keep the powdered sugar from melting?

• Toss donuts in sugar once slightly cooled. Let sit and repeat dusting if needed.

6. Can I use different sugars?

• Yes, try coconut sugar, cinnamon sugar, or a blend of powdered sugar and cocoa powder.

7. Why are my donuts greasy?

• Oil temperature may be too low. Keep it steady at 350°F (175°C) and don’t overcrowd the pan.

8. Can I freeze them after coating?

• Yes, but for best texture, freeze plain and coat with fresh powdered sugar after reheating.

Conclusion

Powdered sugar donuts are the epitome of classic comfort, offering the perfect blend of light texture and delicate sweetness. Their soft, fluffy interior and sugary coating make them a beloved treat for all ages and occasions. Whether served fresh from the fryer or baked for a lighter alternative, these donuts are simple to make yet incredibly satisfying.

Their timeless appeal lies in their balance of simplicity and indulgence—easy to prepare, easy to share, and always delightful. With endless variations and presentation ideas, powdered sugar donuts are a versatile recipe that belongs in every baker’s repertoire. Once you make them, you’ll see why they remain a favorite across generations.

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