8 Expert Tips for Perfect Homemade Donuts Every Time

1. Check Your Yeast Freshness

Make sure the expiration date has not passed, both when purchasing the yeast and before using it at home.

Fresh yeast (whether in a cube or packet) should always be stored in the refrigerator.

2. Knead the Dough Properly

Place the dry ingredients in the mixer bowl, making sure the yeast does not come into direct contact with the salt.

Begin mixing on low speed and gradually add the liquids. Then increase the speed and knead until you have a soft, elastic dough that pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

To test whether the dough has been kneaded enough, gently stretch a small piece of dough in all directions. If it stretches without tearing, it is properly kneaded.

If the dough tears easily, add a little water and knead for a few more minutes.

3. For Better Rising

Consider using a dough improver to achieve a more uniform dough texture and lighter, fluffier donuts.

4. For Perfectly Round Donuts

Place the shaped donuts on a well-greased baking sheet (not a floured one), leaving about 2 inches (5 cm) between each donut.

Once the donuts have doubled in size, carefully lift them with a greased flat spatula and gently lower them into the hot oil.

5. The Right Frying Temperature

The ideal oil temperature for frying donuts is 170–180°C (340–355°F).

Canola oil or sunflower oil are recommended for frying.

To test if the oil is ready, place the handle of a wooden spoon into the oil. If small bubbles form around it, the oil is hot enough.

6. Prevent a Burnt Flavor

To help prevent the oil from developing a burnt taste during frying, add a small piece of carrot to the hot oil.

7. Filling Donuts with Jam

A squeeze bottle with a narrow nozzle (such as one used for sauces) works well for injecting jam into donuts.

8. Working with Honey or Silan

Before measuring honey or silan (date syrup), lightly grease the measuring cup or spoon.

This allows the syrup to slide out smoothly and easily into the dough or filling.

For extra-moist honey donuts, bring 1 cup honey and 1 cup water to a boil. Once the donuts have been fried and cooled, dip them into the honey syrup for a few seconds before serving.