Basic Donuts

These basic donuts are so worth the effort! Who doesn't love a classic donut, and there's nothing like a fresh-as-can-be one. Serve these with your favorite coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast.

TIP:

Individual parchment squares makes transferring dough to frying oil easier and safer.

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Item No. REC8698
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By Ninja Test Kitchen
  • Contains Wheat
  • Contains Dairy
Additional Cook Time
Proof 1h 30m
Total Time
2h 30m
Medium
30
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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup warm water (105-115°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar, divided, plus extra for coating
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 3/4 cup warm milk
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) melted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • Canola oil, as needed

Utensils needed

  • 2 Large Bowls
  • Biscuit / Cookie Cutter

Instructions

Step 1
In a large bowl, combine water, yeast, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Mix to combine, then let sit for 5 minutes, until mixture is frothy. Then, add the remaining sugar, milk, butter, egg, and salt. While stirring, slowly add the flour until the dough gathers in the center of the bowl.

Step 2
Turn the dough over onto a floured worksurface. Knead by hand until the dough is smooth and elastic. Shape the kneaded dough into a ball, then place in a large bowl and cover with a dish towel. Allow dough to rise for 1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 3
Once risen, divide dough into 2 equal portions. Working on a floured work surface, roll one portion to ¼-inch thick. Using donut cutter, cut out as many donuts the dough will allow. If desired, use a smaller dough cutter for donut holes. Place donuts on individually parchment squares. Repeat with remaining dough.

Step 4
Place 2-3 inches of oil in the Ninja PossiblePot, set over medium-low heat. Heat oil to 375°F.

Step 5
When oil is hot, carefully place a few donuts at a time into the oil, peeling off parchment before frying. Cook for 2-3 minutes on first side, or until golden. Then flip and cook on second side for 1 minute. Using a spider strainer, transfer cook donuts to wire rack set over large fray or paper towels, to allow excess oil to drain. Repeat with remaining dough.

Step 6
Add 1 cup sugar to a large bowl. While donuts are still hot, place 1 donut in sugar and toss to coat. Repeat with remaining donuts, adding more sugar to bowl as needed. Serve donuts immediately.