Homemade Mini Donuts: A Bite-Sized Comfort

Some days, only the simple comfort of fried dough will do. And in this house, these homemade mini donuts have become a year-round favorite. While they feel especially perfect in autumn, I find myself making them throughout the year—because honestly, who can resist warm, cinnamon-sugar-coated donuts?

So, I thought I’d share this recipe with you. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic treat or just need a little sweetness in your day, these mini donuts are sure to bring you a bit of comfort.

Ingredients:

• 2 Tbsp warm water

• 1 package active dry yeast (or 2 tsp)

• 2 Tbsp sugar

• 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling)

• 1 cup milk, at room temperature

• 4 Tbsp butter, softened

• 1 large egg, at room temperature

• 1 tsp salt

• Vegetable oil for frying

For coating:

• Cinnamon and sugar mixed in a shallow dish

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast – In a large bowl, mix the yeast, warm water, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until it starts to bubble slightly. This ensures your yeast is active.

2. Make the Dough – Add 1 cup of flour to the yeast mixture and stir. Then, mix in the milk, butter, egg, and salt. Gradually add the rest of the flour, one cup at a time, until the dough pulls clean from the sides of the bowl. The dough should be soft but not sticky (you may not need all the flour).

3. Let it Rise – Cover the dough and let it sit in a warm place for about 40 minutes, or until it doubles in size.

4. Shape the Donuts – On a floured surface, roll the dough to about ¼ inch thick. To make mini donuts, I use a floured shot glass to cut out the rounds, but a floured mason jar works if you prefer larger donuts. Use your fingers to poke a hole in the center and gently stretch it out.

5. Fry to Perfection – Heat vegetable oil in a pan. Fry the donuts until golden brown on both sides, then remove and immediately coat them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture while they’re still warm.

6. Enjoy! – These are best served immediately—though I probably don’t have to tell you that.

There’s something so nostalgic about making homemade donuts, especially when the house fills with the scent of cinnamon and sugar. I hope you love this recipe as much as we do!

Let me know if you give them a try—I’d love to hear how they turn out for you.

Happy baking!