Introduction
Donuts are a beloved treat enjoyed by people all over the world. Whether eaten for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, these sweet, fluffy pastries hold a special place in many cultures. Making donuts from scratch might seem like a daunting task, but with this simple 3-ingredient recipe, anyone can whip up a batch in no time. Perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, this recipe requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. Say goodbye to complicated baking techniques and hello to quick, delicious donuts that will satisfy your cravings.
The History of Donuts
The origin of donuts is a topic of much debate. Some historians trace them back to Dutch settlers who brought their tradition of “olykoeks” (oily cakes) to America in the 18th century. Others believe the modern ring-shaped donut was popularized by Hanson Gregory, a sailor who, in the mid-19th century, claimed to have invented the hole in the center to ensure even cooking. Over time, donuts have evolved into various forms, from classic glazed rings to stuffed and powdered versions, enjoyed worldwide in different cultural adaptations. Today, they are a staple in bakeries, coffee shops, and home kitchens, proving that their appeal is timeless.
Ingredients Breakdown
This recipe only requires three simple ingredients, making it one of the easiest ways to make homemade donuts without the hassle of extensive preparation.
- Self-Rising Flour – This type of flour contains both baking powder and salt, eliminating the need for additional leavening agents. It helps create light, fluffy donuts with minimal effort.
- Greek Yogurt – The key to a soft and slightly tangy dough, Greek yogurt adds moisture and structure while also providing some protein, making these donuts a bit more filling than traditional ones.
- Sugar – Sweetening the dough and adding flavor, sugar is essential for that classic donut taste. You can adjust the amount depending on how sweet you prefer your donuts.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of self-rising flour, 1 cup of Greek yogurt, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Mix until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it becomes manageable.
Step 2: Shape the Donuts Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about half an inch thick. Use a round cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out donut shapes. If you want the traditional hole in the center, use a smaller cutter or bottle cap.
Step 3: Cook the Donuts There are two methods to cook these donuts:
- Frying: Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the donuts in the oil and fry for about 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the donuts on a lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
Step 4: Add Toppings Once the donuts have cooled slightly, you can coat them in sugar, drizzle them with melted chocolate, or dip them in a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
Tips for the Perfect Donuts
- Always measure your flour correctly by spooning it into the cup and leveling it off. Too much flour can make the dough dense.
- Greek yogurt can be substituted with regular yogurt, but the consistency may change slightly.
- If baking, brush the donuts with a little melted butter before placing them in the oven for a richer flavor.
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or cinnamon to the dough.
- If frying, ensure the oil is at the right temperature to avoid greasy or undercooked donuts.
Variations and Customizations
While the base recipe is simple, there are plenty of ways to customize your donuts:
- Chocolate Donuts: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolaty twist.
- Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Toss the warm donuts in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for a classic flavor.
- Filled Donuts: Skip the hole, and after cooking, inject jam, custard, or Nutella into the center using a piping bag.
- Vegan Alternative: Use dairy-free yogurt and a plant-based sugar substitute for a vegan-friendly version.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap the self-rising flour for a gluten-free blend with baking powder added.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
While donuts are an indulgent treat, this 3-ingredient version is slightly healthier than traditional ones made with butter and eggs. Greek yogurt adds protein and probiotics, making them a slightly better option. However, frying adds extra calories, so baking is a lower-fat alternative. One donut (baked) is approximately 120 calories, while a fried version may have around 200 calories depending on the oil absorption. If you’re looking for a healthier option, using whole wheat flour or a sugar substitute can make them more nutritious.
FAQ
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the dough and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before shaping and cooking.
2. Can I freeze the donuts? Absolutely. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container and freeze for up to a month. Reheat in the oven before serving.
3. What can I use instead of Greek yogurt? Sour cream, regular yogurt, or even mashed bananas can work as substitutes.
4. Why are my donuts too dense? This could be due to overmixing the dough or using too much flour. Mix until just combined and handle the dough gently.
5. Can I air-fry these donuts? Yes! Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for about 7-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Easy 3-Ingredient Donuts
Ingredients
- 300 g 2 cups of self-raising flour, plus extra for dusting
- 250 g vanilla bean Greek-style yogurt
- Rice bran oil for deep frying
- Cinnamon sugar for coating
Instructions
Step 1
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour and yogurt. Using clean hands, mix until the dough comes together. Roll tablespoon-sized portions of the dough into balls.
Step 2
- Fill a medium saucepan with rice bran oil to a depth of 5cm and heat over medium heat until it reaches 170°C on a cook’s thermometer (a cube of bread should turn golden in 15 seconds when the oil is ready). Deep-fry the dough balls in batches for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Toss the hot doughnuts in cinnamon sugar and serve warm.