SAEDNEWS: Looking for the Perfect Fluffy French Donut? Follow This Step-by-Step Guide to Make Soft, Irresistible Homemade Donuts
According to the Culinary Service of SaedNews, the donut—a beloved, ring-shaped pastry—has fans all over the world. Among its many varieties, the French donut holds a special place with its delicate, airy texture and uniquely buttery flavor. Making this delectable treat at home is a delightful experience that brings the aroma and taste of a Parisian patisserie straight into your kitchen. In this article, we provide a complete recipe and key tips to guide you in baking the perfect homemade French donuts.
For about 15 French donuts, prepare the following:
Bread flour or pastry flour: 4 cups (approximately 500 g)
Warm milk: 1 cup
Sugar: ¼ cup
Melted butter: 50 g
Large eggs: 2
Instant yeast: 2 tsp
Salt: ½ tsp
Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
Oil for frying: as needed
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Pour warm milk (lukewarm enough not to burn your finger) into a large bowl. Add 1 tsp sugar and all the yeast, stir gently, cover, and let it sit in a warm place for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a separate bowl, whisk eggs with the remaining sugar and vanilla until creamy and smooth. Add melted, cooled butter and the activated yeast mixture. Gradually incorporate sifted flour and salt into the wet ingredients, mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon until a dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead by hand for 10–15 minutes until soft, smooth, slightly sticky, but not clinging to your hands. Proper kneading is key to airy, perfectly textured donuts.
Step 4: Rest and Rise
Lightly oil a large bowl and place the dough inside. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean cloth and let it rest in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, until doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape the Donuts
Gently deflate the dough and roll it out on a floured surface to a thickness of 1–1.5 cm. Cut into donuts using a donut cutter or two differently sized glasses. Place on parchment paper, cover with a cloth, and let rest for another 30 minutes.
Step 6: Fry the Donuts
Heat oil in a deep pot to 175–180°C. (If you don’t have a thermometer, test by dropping a small piece of dough—if it bubbles and rises slowly, the oil is ready.) Fry donuts gently for 1–2 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Avoid overcrowding the pot.
Step 7: Final Decoration
Place fried donuts on a wire rack to drain excess oil. Once slightly cooled, coat with powdered sugar, a sugar–cinnamon mix, or top with chocolate ganache, caramel sauce, or sprinkles.
Milk Temperature: Too hot will kill the yeast; too cold prevents activation.
Flour Quality: Bread flour, with its higher protein, gives a better texture.
Oil Temperature: Too hot burns the outside while leaving the inside raw; too low results in greasy donuts.
Adequate Rest: Give the dough enough time to rise for a light, airy texture.
Making French donuts at home goes beyond baking a simple pastry—it creates a delightful, memorable experience. By following this guide and these tips, you can enjoy bakery-quality donuts with a cup of tea or coffee. These homemade treats are perfect for breakfast, afternoon snacks, or impressing guests at any gathering.
