Baked Sugar Doughnuts (Bread Machine)
These Baked Sugar Doughnuts are a delicious, lower-fat alternative to the deep-fried version, offering a light and airy texture with just the right amount of sweetness. While the recipe takes a bit of time, the results are so worth it, delivering soft, fluffy doughnuts that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults alike. This recipe, originally from Taste of Home Magazine, is credited to Jill Shramek, and it’s the perfect treat for any occasion, whether it’s breakfast or a sweet snack with your afternoon coffee.
Recipe Overview
| Recipe Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Recipe Category | Yeast Breads |
| Cook Time | 2 hours |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 2 hours 20 minutes |
| Yield | 30 doughnuts |
| Servings | 30 doughnuts |
| Rating | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) |
| Review Count | 4 reviews |
| Calories | 186.9 kcal per doughnut |
| Fat Content | 7.5g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 2.6g |
| Cholesterol Content | 19.3mg |
| Sodium Content | 98.9mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 27g |
| Fiber Content | 1.1g |
| Sugar Content | 8.6g |
| Protein Content | 3.2g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes (peeled and diced) | 3 medium-sized |
| Milk (warm) | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Shortening | 3/4 cup |
| Sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Bread flour | 4 1/2 cups |
| Active dry yeast | 2 1/4 teaspoons |
| Granulated sugar (for dipping) | 3/4 cup |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 1/4 teaspoons |
| Butter (melted) | 1/4 cup |
| Margarine (melted) | 1/4 cup |
Instructions
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Prepare the Potatoes
Start by placing the peeled and diced potatoes into a saucepan, covering them with water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Once cooked, drain the potatoes, reserving 1/4 cup of the cooking liquid. Set the reserved liquid aside to cool to a temperature between 70-80°F. -
-
Mash the Potatoes
Mash the cooked potatoes until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps. Set aside 1 cup of the mashed potatoes and let them cool to room temperature. Any leftover mashed potatoes can be refrigerated for later use in another recipe. -
Prepare the Dough
In the pan of your bread machine, add the dough ingredients in the order recommended by your bread machine manufacturer. Make sure to add the cooled mashed potatoes and the reserved cooking liquid. Select the Dough Setting on your bread machine. During the first 5 minutes of the mixing cycle, check the dough. Sometimes, the flour may remain on top, so use a spatula to mix it in or add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water or flour if necessary. -
Knead the Dough
Once the dough cycle is complete, transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. If the dough feels too sticky, knead in an additional 1/4 to 1/2 cup of bread flour until you achieve a smooth, elastic dough. -
Roll and Cut the Dough
Roll the dough out to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a 2 1/2-inch doughnut cutter to cut out the doughnuts. You can also use a large round cutter for the outer edge and a smaller round cutter for the center hole, or use a glass for both cuts. -
Let the Doughnuts Rise
Place the doughnuts onto greased baking sheets, ensuring they are not touching each other. Cover the doughnuts with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise until they are nearly doubled in size, which should take about 25 minutes. -
Bake the Doughnuts
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the doughnuts for 15-20 minutes or until they are lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on them toward the end to ensure they don’t overbake. -
Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
While the doughnuts are baking, prepare the cinnamon-sugar coating. In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. -
Finish the Doughnuts
Once the doughnuts are baked and still warm, brush them generously with melted butter. Then, dip each doughnut into the cinnamon-sugar mixture, making sure they are coated evenly. -
Serve and Enjoy
Allow the doughnuts to cool slightly before serving, though they are best enjoyed while still slightly warm. These doughnuts are perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or any time you’re craving something sweet yet not too heavy.
Tips for Success
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Bread Machine Settings: Different bread machines have varying capacities and settings. Make sure to follow the specific order of ingredients recommended by your bread machine manufacturer. If you don’t have a bread machine, you can knead the dough by hand or use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: If you’re making a double batch, use two baking sheets to ensure the doughnuts have enough space to rise and bake properly.
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Coating Variations: For a different flavor twist, try adding a dash of nutmeg to the cinnamon-sugar mix, or swap out the cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal variation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze these doughnuts?
Yes, these doughnuts can be frozen for up to 2 months. Simply place the cooled doughnuts in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore their softness.
Can I make these doughnuts without a bread machine?
Yes! If you don’t have a bread machine, you can still make these doughnuts by hand or with a stand mixer. For hand mixing, combine the ingredients in a large bowl and knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Then, follow the remaining steps as usual.
Why use potatoes in this recipe?
The potatoes in this doughnut recipe contribute to a soft and fluffy texture, making the doughnuts lighter and moist. Potatoes also help to reduce the overall fat content while maintaining a tender crumb.
Why You’ll Love These Doughnuts
Baked Sugar Doughnuts are the perfect way to enjoy a homemade treat that’s both indulgent and lower in fat compared to traditional fried doughnuts. The addition of potatoes creates a unique texture that is soft, pillowy, and incredibly satisfying. With a delicate cinnamon-sugar coating, these doughnuts are an irresistible snack that your family will love. Whether you’re making them for a weekend brunch or as an after-school treat, they are sure to be a hit.
Enjoy these delightful doughnuts with your favorite coffee or tea, and treat yourself to a little sweetness that’s just the right amount of indulgence!
