Instant Mashed Potato Donuts
Instant Mashed Potato Donuts are soft, fluffy treats with a subtle potato flavor, perfect for breakfast or a snack. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they appeal to those looking for comforting, easy-to-make fried goodies with a hint of sweetness and savory notes, suitable for family gatherings or casual brunches.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix yeast, warm water, and sugar together and let stand about 15 minutes until foamy.
- Add the remaining ingredients and mix well; let stand for 15 minutes.
- Roll out the dough on a floured board and cut into shapes.
- Let the cut dough stand another 15 minutes.
- Fry in vegetable oil until golden brown.
- Glaze if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dough. If you don't have instant potato flakes, you can substitute with 1 cup of mashed potatoes, but adjust the liquid accordingly. Be sure to let the dough rest properly to achieve a light and airy texture. Using a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature can help you achieve the perfect golden brown donuts.
Serving Suggestions
These instant mashed potato donuts are delightful on their own, but you can glaze them with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk for added sweetness. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast or snack. For a fun twist, serve them with a side of Homemade Applesauce for dipping, adding a fruity contrast to the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To maintain freshness, you can refrigerate them for a longer shelf life, but they may lose their crispiness. To reheat, place them in an air fryer for a few minutes or in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through and slightly crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Instant Mashed Potato Donuts contains roughly 665 calories, with 11g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1026mg per serving (45% of the Daily Value).
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 active dry yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes, you can use active dry yeast in place of dry yeast. Just make sure to activate it in warm water with sugar for about 10 minutes before adding it to the mixture. This step is crucial for the yeast to bloom and ensure your donuts rise properly.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
To check if the oil is ready for frying, drop a small piece of dough into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is hot enough. Alternatively, you can use a thermometer; the ideal frying temperature is around 350°F. This ensures that the donuts cook evenly without absorbing too much oil.
Can I make these donuts vegan?
Absolutely! To make these donuts vegan, substitute the oil with a plant-based oil and omit any dairy from the glaze. You can use almond milk or coconut milk to make a vegan icing. The donuts will still be fluffy and delicious without any animal products.
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).