4 Ingredient Donut Recipe | Budget-Friendly & Homemade
This easy 4 ingredient donut recipe is soft, sweet, and perfect for any occasion—from weekday breakfasts to fellowship gatherings. Made with just flour, sugar, yeast, and oil, it's a quick and budget-friendly treat your family and guests will love. No fancy tools or oven required!
Equipment
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons as needed
- 1 Wooden Spoon
- 1 Rolling Pin
- Donut cutter (You can improvise with a glass or round cutter (for shaping) & a bottle cap or small cutter (for donut holes)
- 1 Frying pan or deep pot
- 1 Slotted Spoon
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 6 tbsps sugar
- 1 heaped tsp instant yeast
- Cooking oil for deep frying - Plus additional 2 tbsps of oil for mixing
- (Optional: ½ teaspoon salt for enhanced flavor)
Instructions
- Mix the Dry IngredientsStart by combining 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 6 tablespoons of sugar, and 1heaped teaspoon of yeast in a bowl. Mix well. If you're adding salt to enhance flavor, add it after the initial mixing, ensuring it doesn’t come into direct contact with the yeast.
- Add Wet Ingredients and KneadMake a well in the center and add 2 tablespoons of cooking oil. Note: This recipe requires warm water for mixing—approximately 1¼ cups. The exact amount may vary slightly depending on your flour brand and kitchen conditions. I haven’t included water in the ingredient list since it’s a basic staple that’s generally available in most kitchens.Slowly add warm water a little at a time while mixing with a wooden spoon, then use your hands to knead until you get a soft and sticky dough.
- Knead the DoughTransfer the dough to a floured surface.Knead the dough for 3–5 minutes.Gather the dough into a ball and place it back into the bowl.
- Let the Dough RiseCover the dough with a clean kitchen towel, and place it in a warm spot for 45 minutes to 1 hour until it doubles in size. If it's cold, you can create a warm microclimate using a bowl of warm water under the dough bowl—just be sure it's warm, not hot.
- Prepare the Surface and Roll the DoughOnce risen, beat down the dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough out to about 1 centimeter in thickness.
- Cut Out the DonutsUse donut cutter to make the donut shapes.If you don't have a donut cutter, you can improvise with a wide-mouthed glass or cup to cut the donuts. For the holes, use a bottle cap or similar tool. Remove the excess dough and repeat the process. Don’t use too much flour while re-rolling—just enough to keep things from sticking.
- Let the Donuts RestOnce cut, arrange the donuts on a dusted surface, cover them with a clean towel, and let them rest for another 15–20 minutes.
- Heat the Oil and FryHeat oil in a deep pan. Test the temperature with a small piece of dough. It should rise and start frying gently. Once it has fried to a golden color on both sides, carefully slide in just enough donuts to avoid crowding. Flip once they float to the top to avoid large air bubbles.Fry each side until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Serve and EnjoyThese donuts are best served warm and fresh. They’re soft, slightly sweet, and perfect with tea or coffee. Whether for your family or guests, these donuts will bring smiles all around!
Video
Notes
- Optional Add-Ins: While this is a 4-ingredient recipe, a pinch of salt enhances flavor, and a dash of cinnamon or cardamom adds warmth.
- Storage Tip: These donuts are best fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.
- Oil Temperature Tip: Use medium heat. If the oil is too hot, the donuts will brown too quickly outside but remain doughy inside.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve warm with tea or coffee. For a special treat, dust with powdered sugar or dip in cinnamon sugar.
- Homemaking Encouragement: Even simple recipes like this one can be tools for building joyful, Christ-centered homes. Don’t despise the small things—hospitality often starts with flour and faith!