Heart-Shaped Sugar Donuts

These Heart-Shaped Sugar Donuts are soft, fluffy, and coated in a delightful sugar topping. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, special occasions, or just because, these homemade donuts are easy to make and absolutely delicious. With a tender dough and a light sweetness, they are a treat everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly soft and fluffy – Light, airy texture with just the right amount of sweetness.
• Fun heart shape – Great for romantic occasions, kids, or festive treats.
• Easy to make – Simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions.
• Customizable – Enjoy them plain, sugared, or filled with jam or chocolate.
• Better than store-bought – Fresh, homemade donuts with no preservatives.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast
• ½ cup warm milk
• ¼ cup granulated sugar

Additional Ingredients (Optional)

• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
• ½ cup granulated sugar (for coating)
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional for sugar coating)
• Oil for frying

Directions

Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and instant yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, add flour and pour in the yeast mixture. Stir until combined.
3. Knead the Dough: Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp towel and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

Shape the Donuts

4. Roll Out the Dough: Lightly flour a surface and roll out the dough to ½-inch thickness.
5. Cut into Hearts: Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the donuts. If making donut holes, use a smaller cutter in the center.
6. Second Rise: Place the cut-out dough on a baking sheet, cover lightly, and let rest for 20-30 minutes.

Fry the Donuts

7. Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
8. Fry in Batches: Carefully place the donuts in the oil and fry for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown.
9. Drain Excess Oil: Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.

Coat and Serve

10. Sugar Coating: While warm, brush with melted butter and roll in granulated sugar (or a sugar-cinnamon mix).
11. Serve Fresh: Enjoy warm or allow to cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 donuts
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Resting Time: 1.5 hours
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours

Variations

• Glazed Version: Dip in a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
• Filled Donuts: Pipe in jam, Nutella, or pastry cream after frying.
• Baked Option: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes instead of frying.
• Chocolate Coating: Dip in melted chocolate and top with sprinkles.

Storage/Reheating

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerate: Keep for up to 5 days, but they may lose freshness.
• Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months and reheat before serving.
• Reheat: Warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make these without a heart-shaped cutter?

Yes! Use a round cutter or shape them by hand for a rustic look.

Why didn’t my donuts rise properly?

Make sure your yeast is fresh and that the dough is kept in a warm place while rising.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, then coat with butter and sugar.

What oil is best for frying?

Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil work best.

How do I make these extra fluffy?

Let the dough rise fully and avoid over-kneading to keep the donuts light and airy.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! Refrigerate overnight and bring to room temperature before shaping and frying.

How do I prevent my donuts from being greasy?

Ensure the oil is hot enough (350°F) and drain them properly on paper towels.

What’s the best way to coat them in sugar?

Roll them while still warm so the sugar sticks evenly.

Can I add flavor to the dough?

Yes! Add vanilla, nutmeg, or citrus zest for extra depth of flavor.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but they will be denser. A 50/50 mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour works best.

Conclusion

These Heart-Shaped Sugar Donuts are the perfect homemade treat for any occasion. Soft, fluffy, and coated in sugar, they’re simple yet delicious. Whether fried or baked, filled or glazed, these donuts are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Try them today for a sweet and delightful treat!

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