DONUTS / A Completely New Method for Donuts

DONUTS / A Completely New Method for Donuts is a medium American recipe that serves 8. 220 calories per serving. Recipe by The apron on YouTube.

Prep: 2 hrs 32 min | Cook: 15 min | Total: 3 hrs 2 min

Cost: $2.76 total, $0.35 per serving

Ingredients

  • 300 ml Whole Milk (cold, straight from the fridge)
  • 1.5 tsp Instant Dry Yeast (approximately 4.5 g)
  • 2 tbsp Granulated Sugar (helps yeast and adds sweetness)
  • 2 tbsp Milk Powder (optional, adds richness)
  • 400 g Bread Flour (high‑protein (≈12 %) for soft dough; all‑purpose flour works if needed)
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 30 g Unsalted Butter (softened, not cold)
  • 1 Large Egg (optional – if used, reduce milk by the same volume (≈50 ml))
  • 200 g Powdered (Icing) Sugar (for glaze)
  • 2 tbsp Milk (for glaze) (adjust for desired glaze thickness)
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract

Instructions

  1. Mix liquid ingredients

    In a mixing bowl combine 300 ml cold whole milk, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 1½ tsp instant dry yeast, and, if using the egg version, one large egg (reduce milk by ~50 ml). Stir until the sugar dissolves.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Add optional milk powder

    Stir in 2 tbsp milk powder for extra richness; skip if unavailable.

    Time: PT1M

  3. Sift dry ingredients

    Sift 400 g bread flour and 1 tsp salt into a separate bowl.

    Time: PT2M

  4. Begin kneading

    Attach the dough hook to the stand mixer on low speed (1‑2). With the mixer running, slowly pour the liquid mixture into the flour while mixing.

    Time: PT5M

  5. Adjust dough softness

    After about 2 minutes, check the dough. If it feels stiff, add the remaining milk (up to 30 ml) a little at a time. If it becomes too wet, sprinkle 1‑2 tbsp flour.

    Time: PT3M

  6. Knead with butter

    Add 30 g softened butter to the dough and continue kneading on low‑medium speed for 7 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly shiny.

    Time: PT7M

  7. Rest if dough gets warm

    If the kitchen is hot and the dough feels warm, pause the mixer and refrigerate the dough for 15 minutes.

    Time: PT15M

  8. Divide dough

    Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Using a kitchen scale, cut the dough into 50 g portions (about 8 pieces). Shape each piece into a smooth ball, sealing any cracks.

    Time: PT5M

  9. Rest dough balls

    Place the dough balls on a tray, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let them rest for 15‑20 minutes.

    Time: PT20M

  10. Shape donuts

    Gently press the center of each ball and create a hole using a small donut cutter or your thumb. Return shaped donuts to the tray.

    Time: PT10M

  11. Proof donuts

    Cover the tray and let the donuts proof until they spring back slowly when pressed – about 1 hour in summer or up to 2 hours in cooler weather.

    Time: PT60M

  12. Heat oil

    Fill a deep‑fry pan with enough oil to submerge the donuts and heat to 150‑160 °C (300‑320 °F).

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: 150-160°C

  13. Fry donuts

    Carefully lower a few donuts into the oil. Fry for 2‑3 minutes per side, turning once, until golden and puffed. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: 150-160°C

  14. Cool donuts completely

    Allow the fried donuts to cool on the rack for at least 10 minutes; the glaze will not set on warm donuts.

    Time: PT10M

  15. Prepare glaze

    In a small bowl whisk together 200 g powdered sugar, 2 tbsp milk, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth and glossy. Adjust milk to reach a pourable consistency.

    Time: PT5M

  16. Glaze donuts

    Dip each cooled donut into the glaze, allowing excess to drip off, then place back on the rack to set.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
220
Protein
3 g
Carbohydrates
30 g
Fat
9 g
Fiber
1 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian (eggless version), Contains gluten, Contains dairy

Allergens: Milk, Wheat, Egg, Butter

Last updated: April 18, 2026

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DONUTS / A Completely New Method for Donuts

Recipe by The apron

A step‑by‑step guide to making ultra‑soft, pillowy yeast donuts at home. This eggless recipe uses instant dry yeast, bread flour, and a simple vanilla glaze for a bakery‑style finish. An optional egg version is also included.

MediumAmericanServes 8

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
2h 33m
Prep
15m
Cook
20m
Cleanup
3h 8m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$2.76
Total cost
$0.35
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Achieving a soft, slightly tacky dough before adding butter.
  • Proofing until the dough springs back slowly – not over‑proofed.
  • Maintaining oil temperature at 150‑160 °C for a fluffy interior.
  • Cooling donuts completely before glazing.

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oil can cause severe burns – use a thermometer and never leave unattended.
  • Do not overfill the pan; oil may splatter.
  • Keep children and pets away from the frying area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of soft pillowy donuts in American cuisine?

A

Soft, yeast‑leavened donuts became popular in the United States in the early 20th century, especially with the rise of doughnut shops and the iconic "Dunkin' Donuts" chain. They are a classic breakfast and snack treat, often enjoyed with coffee.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of donuts in American cuisine?

A

In the U.S., variations include cake‑style donuts, yeast‑raised donuts, and specialty flavors like Boston cream, maple‑glazed, and cinnamon‑sugar. Some regions favor powdered‑sugar coatings, while others prefer chocolate or fruit glazes.

cultural
Q

How are soft pillowy donuts traditionally served in the United States?

A

They are typically served warm, dusted with powdered sugar or glazed, and enjoyed alongside coffee or milk. In diners and bakeries they may be displayed on a warming tray to keep them soft.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations are soft pillowy donuts associated with in American culture?

A

Donuts are a staple for breakfast meetings, office coffee breaks, and weekend brunches. They also appear at fairs, fundraisers, and as a treat for holidays like National Donut Day (first Friday of June).

cultural
Q

What makes soft pillowy donuts special or unique in American bakery tradition?

A

The combination of a light, airy yeast‑based interior with a crisp, golden exterior sets them apart from dense cake donuts. The quick proofing and moderate‑temperature frying create that signature pillowy bite.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making soft pillowy donuts at home?

A

Common errors include over‑kneading, using water that’s too hot (which kills yeast), over‑proofing (donuts collapse), and frying at too high a temperature (which hardens the crust). Follow the temperature and proofing cues in the recipe.

technical
Q

Why does this soft pillowy donuts recipe use instant dry yeast instead of active dry yeast?

A

Instant dry yeast can be mixed directly into cold milk without pre‑activation, saving time and ensuring an even distribution. Active dry yeast requires a warm liquid activation step, which the video notes as an alternative.

technical
Q

Can I make the soft pillowy donuts ahead of time and how should I store them?

A

Yes. After glazing, store the donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them; reheat in a 150 °C oven before serving to restore softness.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the soft pillowy donuts are done frying?

A

The donuts should be golden‑brown, puffed, and slightly shiny. When lifted, they should feel light and spring back gently to the touch, indicating a fluffy interior.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel The Apron specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel The Apron focuses on clear, step‑by‑step home cooking tutorials, emphasizing technique, ingredient science, and approachable recipes for everyday cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel The Apron’s approach to American baking differ from other cooking channels?

A

The Apron combines detailed explanations of each step with practical tips for home kitchens, often offering both eggless and egg versions of recipes and highlighting common pitfalls, which sets it apart from channels that assume prior expertise.

channel

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