Donuts Or Rolls

Prep: 30 min Serves: 50 Cuisine: American

Soft, fluffy homemade donuts or rolls with a rich, slightly sweet flavor, perfect for breakfast or dessert. Ideal for bread lovers and those craving fresh baked treats.

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Ingredients

  • 1 qt. milk
  • 3/4 c. sugar
  • 2 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 c. lard
  • 8 c. bread flour
  • 2 1/2 Tbsp. yeast
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 c. cold water

Instructions

  1. Dissolve sugar, salt, and lard in hot milk in a bowl.
  2. Add cold water and beaten eggs to the mixture.
  3. Ensure the liquid is very warm to the touch.
  4. Add 4 cups of flour; sprinkle dry yeast over it.
  5. Stir with a wire whisk until combined.
  6. Add the rest of the flour and stir with a big spoon.
  7. Knead lightly if necessary; dough should be sticky but manageable.
  8. Let the dough rise until doubled in size.
  9. Shape into donuts or rolls and let rise again if desired.
  10. Bake or fry until golden brown and cooked through.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, ensure the milk is warm but not too hot when adding yeast; this prevents killing it. You can substitute lard with unsalted butter or vegetable oil for a different flavor. If you prefer a sweet twist, consider adding vanilla extract or spices like nutmeg to the dough. If you have leftover dough, try shaping it into a Cinnamon Pecan Ring for a delightful variation.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the donuts or rolls warm, dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with a glaze for extra sweetness. They pair beautifully with coffee or a cup of tea. For a brunch spread, consider serving them alongside Puffy Pineapple Pancake and fresh fruit. They also make a great addition to a dessert table or as a sweet treat after dinner.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover donuts or rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or microwave for 15-20 seconds until warmed through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Donuts Or Rolls contains roughly 125 calories, with 3g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.

125 kcal 6% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.4g 7% DV
Total Fat 3.2g 4% DV
Carbs 20.9g 8% DV
Fiber 1.7g 6% DV
Sugar 1g 2% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 173.3mg 8% DV
Potassium 79.3mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 2.9mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 3.9mcg
Vitamin C 1.6mg 2% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 43.7mg 3% DV
Iron 1.2mg 7% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but keep in mind that it may result in a denser texture. It's best to use a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for a lighter dough while still adding some health benefits.

What should I do if my dough doesn't rise?

If your dough doesn't rise, it may be due to inactive yeast. Make sure the milk is warm, not hot, when adding the yeast. You can also create a warm environment for the dough to rise by placing it in an oven with the light on or near a warm stove.

Can I make these donuts ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it after the first rise. Simply shape the donuts or rolls and let them rise again before baking or frying. This makes it convenient for serving fresh baked goods at brunch.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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