Quick and Easy Pan-Fried Doughnuts

Indulging in a warm, freshly made doughnut doesn’t have to be a labor-intensive task. With this Quick and Easy Pan-Fried Doughnuts recipe, you can whip up a delicious treat in no time! Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack, these doughnuts are fluffy, sweet, and oh-so-satisfying. Let’s dive into the details of making these delightful treats!

Why You’ll Love These Doughnuts

These pan-fried doughnuts are incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and time. The combination of yogurt and milk creates a moist, tender texture, while the frying method gives them that irresistible golden-brown exterior. Whether you enjoy them plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or coated in cinnamon sugar, these doughnuts are bound to impress your family and friends.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, hosting a brunch, or just craving something sweet, these doughnuts fit the bill. They can also be a fun cooking project with kids, allowing them to get involved in the kitchen.

Who Is This Recipe For?

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves the taste of homemade doughnuts but doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s ideal for busy parents, college students, or anyone looking for a quick and satisfying treat. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover yogurt!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delectable doughnuts:

  • 1 egg: Provides richness and helps bind the batter.
  • 3 tablespoons sugar: Adds sweetness and enhances flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For that warm, aromatic flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons oil: Helps keep the doughnuts moist.
  • 1 natural yogurt (about 5.3 oz or 150g): Adds moisture and tenderness to the doughnut.
  • 1 cup milk: Adjusts the consistency of the batter.
  • Flour: Enough to achieve a cake batter consistency, typically around 2-2.5 cups.
  • 10g baking powder: Ensures the doughnuts rise and become fluffy.

Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

  1. Whisk Together Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, crack the egg and add the sugar. Use a whisk to combine them until smooth and creamy. This step is crucial as it helps to incorporate air into the mixture, leading to a lighter texture in the final doughnuts.
  2. Incorporate Flavorings: Add the vanilla extract, oil, yogurt, and milk to the bowl. Mix well until all the wet ingredients are fully combined. The yogurt not only adds flavor but also helps to create a moist doughnut.

Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients

  1. Gradually Add Flour: Begin adding flour to the mixture gradually. Start with about 1 cup and mix it in. Continue to add flour until the batter reaches a thick pancake-like consistency. You want it to be pourable but thick enough to hold its shape when dropped into the oil.
  2. Stir in Baking Powder: Once your batter is ready, add the baking powder. This ingredient is key for creating fluffy doughnuts, so ensure it’s well incorporated into the batter.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

  1. Heat the Frying Oil: In a frying pan, heat about 1-2 inches of oil over medium heat. The oil needs to be hot enough that when you drop a small amount of batter in, it sizzles immediately. A good test is to drop a tiny spoonful of batter into the oil; if it bubbles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.

Step 4: Fry the Doughnuts

  1. Form Doughnuts: Using a spoon or a small ice cream scoop, drop dollops of batter into the hot oil. You can shape them into rounds or simply let them spread a little—either way, they’ll be delicious!
  2. Fry Until Golden Brown: Fry the doughnuts for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown. Make sure to flip them carefully using a slotted spoon or tongs to ensure they cook evenly.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

  1. Remove and Drain: Once golden brown, remove the doughnuts from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil.
  2. Optional Coating: While the doughnuts are still warm, you can dust them with powdered sugar or roll them in cinnamon sugar for an extra sweet touch.
  3. Serve Warm: Enjoy your homemade pan-fried doughnuts warm. They’re best eaten fresh but can also be stored for later.

Tips and Variations

Customize Your Doughnuts

  • Flavor Variations: Experiment with different flavors by adding a teaspoon of almond extract or orange zest to the batter for a unique twist.
  • Add-ins: Incorporate mini chocolate chips, dried fruits, or nuts into the batter for extra texture and flavor.
  • Toppings: Instead of powdered sugar, consider dipping your doughnuts in a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or a chocolate glaze for a decadent touch.

Storage and Reheating

  • Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • Reheating: To reheat, simply place them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This will help restore their softness.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional information per doughnut (assuming this recipe yields about 12 doughnuts):

  • Calories: 130 kcal
  • Total Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg
  • Sodium: 80mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 2g

Weight Watchers Points: Approximately 4 points per doughnut, depending on specific brands and measurements used.

Conclusion

These Quick and Easy Pan-Fried Doughnuts are not just a treat; they’re a delightful experience that brings joy to any occasion. With minimal ingredients and a quick preparation time, you can satisfy your sweet cravings without the hassle. Perfect for brunch, snacks, or just because, these doughnuts are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the process of making them, and even more, enjoy the delicious results!