5 Minute Mini Donut Recipe
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INGREDIENTS
- Powdered sugar
- All your favorite sweet spreads
Batter:
- 2 eggs
- 14 ounces/400 milliliters sour cream
- 3 tablespoons/15 grams sugar
- 1 teaspoon/10 grams baking powder
- ½ cup/120 milliliters milk
- 3 cups/360 grams all-purpose flour
INSTRUCTIONS
- Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat until it reaches 165°C (330°F).
- In a large bowl, whisk together all the batter ingredients until smooth and well combined.
- Using an ice cream scoop or two spoons, carefully drop small portions of the batter into the hot oil. Fry, turning occasionally, until the doughnuts are puffed and golden brown, about 4 minutes.
- Transfer the doughnuts to a wire rack to cool slightly. Dust generously with powdered sugar and serve warm with an assortment of sweet dips.
MY NOTES
FAQ
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream in this mini donut recipe. It has a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor, making it a seamless replacement. Use full-fat or plain Greek yogurt for the best results, as lower-fat versions may alter the batter’s consistency. Replace sour cream with an equal amount of Greek yogurt—7 ounces (200 ml) per container. If the batter feels too thick, you can thin it slightly with a splash of milk or water. While the texture may be a bit denser than with sour cream, the doughnuts will still turn out fluffy and delicious.
What type of oil is best for frying these mini donuts?
For this mini donut recipe, choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point to ensure the donuts fry evenly and absorb minimal flavor. Avocado oil, vegetable oil, or peanut oil are excellent options, as they are affordable, widely available, and won’t interfere with the donuts’ sweet flavor. Heat the oil to 330°F (165°C) and monitor the temperature to maintain consistency while frying.
How do I know the oil is at the right temperature?
To ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for this mini donut recipe, use a deep-fry thermometer. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 330°F (165°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil with a small piece of batter. Drop the batter into the oil—it should sizzle immediately and gradually turn golden brown within 4 minutes. If it browns too quickly, the oil is too hot and needs to cool slightly. If it doesn’t sizzle or takes too long to brown, the oil is too cold, and you should increase the heat.
Can I bake these donuts instead of frying them?
While this mini donut recipe is designed for frying, you can bake the donuts as a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a mini donut or muffin pan. Spoon the batter into the molds, filling each about three-quarters full to allow room for rising. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the donuts are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Although baked donuts lack the crispy exterior of fried ones, they still have a soft and fluffy texture, making them a lighter but equally tasty option.
How should I store leftover mini donuts?
Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness of donuts made with this mini donut recipe. Place leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to store them longer, refrigerate them, but be aware that refrigeration can make them slightly denser. For extended storage, freeze the donuts. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen donuts can last up to 3 months. Reheat them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes before serving.
Can I add flavorings like vanilla or cinnamon to the batter?
Yes, adding flavorings is a fantastic way to enhance this mini donut recipe. For a classic touch, add 1-2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to the batter. If you prefer a spiced flavor, mix in 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg. These additions blend seamlessly into the batter without altering its texture. For a citrusy twist, try adding 1-2 teaspoons of grated lemon or orange zest. You can also experiment with almond extract or cocoa powder for unique variations. Adjust the sugar slightly if using sweet flavorings, and mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Creative toppings or dips to serve with these mini donuts
This mini donut recipe offers endless possibilities for toppings and dips. For a classic finish, dust the doughnuts with powdered sugar or roll them in cinnamon sugar. For a more indulgent treat, drizzle with melted chocolate, caramel, or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. Pair the mini donuts with dips like Nutella, peanut butter, or fruit preserves for added flavor. Crushed nuts, colorful sprinkles, or shredded coconut make excellent toppings. For a gourmet twist, serve with homemade sauces such as raspberry coulis, lemon curd, or salted caramel, turning these donuts into an impressive dessert centerpiece.
Prevent the mini donuts from absorbing too much oil
To prevent excess oil absorption in this mini donut recipe, maintain the frying oil at a steady temperature of 165°C (330°F). Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the heat and avoid frying at lower temperatures, which can cause the donuts to soak up oil. Do not overcrowd the pan, as this reduces the oil temperature. Ensure the batter consistency is thick enough to hold its shape, as thinner batters absorb more oil. After frying, place the donuts on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. These steps will result in light, fluffy donuts with minimal greasiness.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
This mini donut recipe is best made fresh, but you can prepare the batter ahead if necessary. Store the mixed batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Before frying, allow the batter to come to room temperature and stir gently to restore its consistency. Be aware that the baking powder in the batter may lose some effectiveness over time, so the donuts might not puff up as much as freshly made ones. For optimal results, mix the batter just before frying to ensure the donuts rise properly and have the ideal texture.
What’s the best way to reheat these mini donuts?
Reheating the mini donuts is simple and ensures they taste fresh. For the best results, use an oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the mini donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and heat for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave by placing a doughnut on a microwave-safe plate and heating for 10-15 seconds. For a crispier texture, reheat in an air fryer at 325°F (160°C) for 2-3 minutes. Always monitor reheating closely to avoid drying out the mini donuts or overcooking them.
