Doughnuts with Powdered Sugar: A Delightful Indulgence
Doughnuts with powdered sugar are a classic treat that has been delighting taste buds for generations. These light and airy pastries, with their crisp exterior and fluffy interior, are the perfect canvas for the delicate sweetness of powdered sugar. Whether you’re craving a comforting snack or looking to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
🌟 What Makes This Recipe Special
What sets these doughnuts apart is the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The crisp, golden-brown exterior gives way to a soft, pillowy interior that melts in your mouth. The light coating of powdered sugar adds a delightful sweetness that complements the dough without overpowering it. Plus, with a few simple ingredients and a straightforward preparation method, you can enjoy these doughnuts fresh from your own kitchen, making them a versatile and accessible treat.
🍽️ Ingredients
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar for dusting
The beauty of this doughnut recipe is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and milk creates the classic doughnut flavor profile that has made these recipes perennially popular.
👨🍳 Cooking Instructions
• Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter until fully combined.
• Step 3: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until a sticky dough forms. Do not overmix.
• Step 4: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter or two different-sized round cutters to cut out the doughnuts and doughnut holes.
• Step 5: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F. Carefully fry the doughnuts and holes in batches for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
• Step 6: Transfer the fried doughnuts to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. While still warm, toss the doughnuts in the powdered sugar to coat evenly.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes
Compared to traditional doughnuts that can take up to an hour to prepare, this recipe saves you 50% of your cooking time while delivering the same irresistible flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 12 servings):
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 210mg
These doughnuts provide approximately 10% of your daily carbohydrate requirements and 5% of your daily fat needs, making them a delectable treat that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert
• Complement with a fresh fruit salad for a balanced and refreshing meal
• For a festive gathering, arrange the doughnuts on a platter with additional powdered sugar for a visually appealing presentation
⚠️ Cooking Pitfalls to Skip
• Incorrect oil temperature: If the oil is not hot enough, the doughnuts will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Maintain a consistent temperature of 350°F.
• Overcrowding the pot: Fry the doughnuts in small batches to ensure even cooking and prevent the oil temperature from dropping too much.
🥡 Storage & Leftovers
These doughnuts retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Freeze the cut-out doughnuts on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the cooking time.
• Freezing baked: Allow the doughnuts to cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap or foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore the crisp exterior.
❓ FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough up to 2 days in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate the dough until ready to cut and fry. This can save you time on the day of serving.
Can I use a different type of sugar instead of granulated?
While granulated sugar is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other types of sugar, such as brown sugar or even powdered sugar, for subtle variations in flavor and texture. Just be sure to adjust the amount as needed to achieve the desired sweetness.
Are these doughnuts gluten-free or dairy-free?
This recipe is not naturally gluten-free or dairy-free, as it contains all-purpose flour and milk. However, you can make adaptations to accommodate these dietary needs. Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend and non-dairy milk, such as almond or oat milk, to create gluten-free and dairy-free versions of these doughnuts.
What if my doughnuts come out greasy or oily?
If your doughnuts seem excessively greasy, it’s likely due to the oil temperature being too low during frying. Make sure to maintain a consistent temperature of 350°F and fry the doughnuts in small batches to prevent the oil from cooling down too much. Additionally, be sure to drain the fried doughnuts on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
Can I add any additional toppings or fillings?
Absolutely! These doughnuts provide a great canvas for endless creative variations. Try filling them with your favorite jams, custards, or even chocolate-hazelnut spread. You can also experiment with toppings like cinnamon-sugar, chocolate glaze, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce.
🎉 Final Thoughts
These doughnuts with powdered sugar represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a comforting snack or a decadent dessert, they’re sure to impress with their crisp exterior and fluffy interior. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these doughnuts demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the frying process. So, gather your loved ones, dust off your apron, and get ready to indulge in the irresistible magic of homemade doughnuts with powdered sugar.
