Name: Potato Doughnuts Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 3 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups bread flour; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 4 egg yolks; 7 oz warm mashed potatoes; 3/4 cup warm milk; 1/3 cup margarine or butter; Oil for deep frying (enough to submerge doughnuts)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 64 reviews

If you have never tried Potato Doughnuts Recipe, you are in for a delightful surprise. These doughnuts come out incredibly soft and fluffy, thanks to the addition of warm mashed potatoes in the dough. The potatoes add a subtle richness and tenderness that transforms a simple fried treat into a melt-in-your-mouth indulgence you’ll want to share with everyone close to you. They’re perfect for any time of day and bring a comforting homemade charm that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Many smooth yellow dough balls are arranged closely on a wooden board sprinkled with white flour. The dough balls have a soft texture and appear fresh and round, with some coated lightly with flour on top. The white marbled surface is visible around the board edges, giving a clean and bright look to the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

With just a handful of essential ingredients, this recipe stays simple and approachable while delivering incredible flavor and texture. Each component plays an important role in achieving that perfect fluffy doughnut with a light, golden crust.

Bread flour: Provides structure and chewiness to the dough, essential for the right doughnut texture.
All-purpose flour: Balances the bread flour, making the dough easier to work with and softening the crumb.
Instant yeast: The leavening agent that creates airy doughnuts by making the dough rise beautifully.
Salt: Enhances overall flavor, balancing out the sweetness perfectly.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with a golden crust during frying.
Egg yolks: Contribute richness and moisture, making the dough tender.
Warm mashed potatoes: The star ingredient that brings moisture and softness like no other doughnut recipe can.
Warm milk: Activates the yeast and ensures a smooth, cohesive dough.
Margarine or butter: Adds flavor and tenderness, enriching the dough’s crumb.
Oil: For frying the doughnuts to a perfect golden brown.

How to Make Potato Doughnuts Recipe

Step 1: Mix and Knead the Dough

Combine all your ingredients in a large bowl and stir them together with a wooden spoon until a rough dough starts to come together. Then, get your hands in there or use a stand mixer to knead the dough until it feels smooth and elastic. This usually takes around 10-12 minutes by hand or slightly less with the mixer. Form it into a neat ball to prepare for the next step.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

Cover your dough ball with a clean kitchen towel and place it in a warm spot. The dough needs about 60 to 90 minutes to rise until it doubles in size. This resting period is crucial because it develops the flavors and creates those airy pockets inside your final doughnuts.

Step 3: Punch Down and Prepare for Shaping

Once your dough has doubled, punch it down gently to release the gas bubbles formed during rising. Then, transfer it onto a lightly floured surface and give it a couple more kneads to redistribute everything evenly.

Step 4: Divide and Shape into Doughnut Rings

Using a kitchen scale, divide your dough into 24 equal portions, each about 50 grams. Roll each piece into a smooth ball. Then poke a hole in the center of each ball with your thumb, gradually widening it to a two-fingers width to create the classic doughnut shape that will fry evenly.

Step 5: Second Rise

Cover your doughnut rings with a clean towel again and allow them to rest for 20-30 minutes at a warm temperature. This rise helps the doughnuts puff up slightly, making them delightfully light after frying.

Step 6: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat your oil to 375°F (190°C) — the perfect temperature to get that crisp exterior while keeping the inside tender. Carefully drop your doughnuts in batches into the hot oil. To keep the holes open, gently spin each doughnut using a chopstick during frying. Cook each side for about 1-2 minutes until golden brown, flipping them once halfway through.

Step 7: Drain and Serve

Remove your fried doughnuts and let them drain on a paper towel-lined tray. This step keeps them from getting greasy and helps maintain their light texture. You can enjoy them plain, or add a glaze, sugar coating, or your favorite toppings for extra indulgence.

How to Serve Potato Doughnuts Recipe

Two torn pieces of a soft, yellow doughnut covered in white powdered sugar are held by a woman's hand. The dough inside looks light and fluffy with a slightly rough texture. In the background, there is a white doughnut with powdered sugar on a white marbled surface. The image focuses closely on the doughnut pieces and the woman's hand holding them, showing detail in the dough's airy texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Potato doughnuts are a beautiful canvas for all sorts of toppings. A simple dusting of powdered sugar or granulated sugar is classic and quick, but don’t hesitate to experiment with a light glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or your favorite chocolate drizzle. Fresh fruit, cinnamon sugar, or even sprinkles can elevate these doughnuts for a special occasion.

Side Dishes

These doughnuts pair wonderfully with fresh brewed coffee or tea, making them perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. You can also serve them alongside fresh fruit or yogurt to balance their sweetness with something fresh and light. For a festive brunch, pair them with scrambled eggs or bacon to turn them into a heartier meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking Potato Doughnuts Recipe with layers of cream or jam between them for a playful doughnut cake. Alternatively, fill the crooks with flavored creams or pastry cream after frying for a decadent touch. Serve them on a rustic wooden board sprinkled with toasted nuts or coconut flakes to add delightful texture and visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any doughnuts left over, store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two days. This maintains their soft texture and fresh flavors without drying out.

Freezing

Potato doughnuts freeze beautifully. Place the cooled doughnuts on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a resealable plastic bag or container. They keep well frozen for up to one month, perfect for quick treats anytime you crave them.

Reheating

To revive your frozen or stored doughnuts, warm them gently in an oven preheated to 325°F (160°C) for 5-10 minutes. This method crisps up their outside again while warming the soft inside, bringing back that fresh-from-the-fryer magic.

FAQs

Can I substitute the potatoes with something else?

While potatoes are a key ingredient in this Potato Doughnuts Recipe for that unique softness, you can try using sweet potatoes for a sweeter, slightly different flavor. However, using other substitutes may affect the texture and taste significantly.

Why do we need two types of flour?

The combination of bread flour and all-purpose flour balances gluten development to create doughnuts that are fluffy yet sturdy enough to hold their shape and rise well during frying.

Is it necessary to use warm milk and potatoes?

Yes, warm ingredients help activate the yeast faster and more evenly, leading to a better rise and softer dough. Using cold ingredients may slow down the fermentation process.

Can I bake these doughnuts instead of frying?

While traditional fried doughnuts have their classic texture, you can bake them for a lighter alternative. However, expect a different exterior crispness and a softer crust compared to frying.

How long does the dough take to rise?

The first rise usually takes between 60 to 90 minutes until the dough doubles in size, depending on your kitchen temperature. The second rise after shaping is shorter, roughly 20 to 30 minutes for a nice puff.

Final Thoughts

If you love doughnuts with a little extra heart and soul, this Potato Doughnuts Recipe is a must-try that will quickly become a beloved favorite. The unique softness and comforting flavor remind me of cozy mornings and happy gatherings. I encourage you to try making them yourself and enjoy every delightful bite with those you care about.