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Deliciously Soft Chinese Doughnuts

Soft, golden Chinese doughnuts that melt in your mouth—easy to make with simple ingredients, perfect for breakfast or a comforting snack.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 12 pieces
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour 375 g
  • 0.25 cup granulated sugar 50 g
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp instant yeast
  • 1 large egg
  • 0.75 cup warm milk 180 ml
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter softened, 30 g
  • oil for frying neutral oil like vegetable or canola
  • extra sugar for coating optional

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Deep Pot or Wok
  • Thermometer
  • Rolling Pin
  • Doughnut Cutter or Glass
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast.
  2. Step 2: Add egg and warm milk, mix until a soft dough forms.
  3. Step 3: Incorporate softened butter and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth, elastic, and soft but not sticky. Dust with flour if hands are sticky.
  4. Step 4: Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  5. Step 5: Punch down dough, roll out on floured surface to about 1 cm thickness.
  6. Step 6: Cut dough into rounds using a cutter or glass cup.
  7. Step 7: Place dough rounds on tray, cover lightly, and let rise 20–30 minutes until puffed slightly.
  8. Step 8: Heat oil in a deep pot to 170–180°C (338–356°F). Use thermometer for accuracy.
  9. Step 9: Fry doughnuts in batches, turning occasionally, about 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pot.
  10. Step 10: Remove doughnuts, drain on paper towels, and optionally roll in extra sugar while warm.
  11. Step 11: Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Use almond or oat milk for dairy-free version. Butter can be swapped with coconut oil or margarine. Store doughnuts at room temperature in airtight container for up to 2 days. Refresh in a warm oven before serving. Avoid refrigerating to prevent drying out.