Bubble donuts are the perfect bite-sized treat when you’re craving something sweet, soft, and a little playful. They’re light and fluffy inside, golden and slightly crisp on the outside, and easy to make with just a handful of pantry staples. These tiny, airy donuts are a joy for kids and adults alike, making them a perfect weekend baking project or a quick snack for guests.
The best part? You can enjoy them plain, dusted with powdered sugar, dipped in chocolate, or glazed with your favorite flavors. Let’s dive into the recipe and then explore tips, variations, and serving ideas to help you make them your own.
Ingredients
- ½ cup warm milk
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon yeast
- 1 cup flour
- 1 egg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- Oil for frying
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is a sign that the yeast is active and ready to help your donuts rise.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Once the yeast mixture is bubbly, add the flour, egg, salt, and softened butter. Mix everything together until a smooth, lump-free batter forms. The dough should be slightly thick but still pipeable.
Step 3: Let It Rise
Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the batter rest in a warm spot for about 40 minutes. During this time, it will rise and become airy, which will help the donuts stay light inside.
Step 4: Prepare for Frying
Transfer the risen batter into a piping bag. This makes it easy to control the size and shape of the donuts. If you don’t have a piping bag, you can use a plastic zip-top bag with a small hole cut in one corner.
Step 5: Fry the Bubble Donuts
In a deep pan or skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. To test the temperature, drop a small amount of batter into the oil — if it sizzles and floats to the top, it’s ready.
Pipe small drops of the batter into the hot oil. The batter will puff up into little bubbles as they cook. Fry until golden brown on all sides, turning occasionally for even cooking.
Remove the donuts with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Coating: Roll the warm donuts in powdered sugar for a soft, sweet finish.
- Chocolate Dip: Melt some milk or dark chocolate and dip the donuts halfway for a rich treat.
- Cinnamon Sugar: Toss them in a mixture of cinnamon and granulated sugar for a fragrant, spiced twist.
- Glazed: Drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk for a shiny, sweet topping.
- With Tea or Coffee: Enjoy them plain with a warm drink for a cozy snack.
Tips for Perfect Bubble Donuts
- Warm, Not Hot Milk – If the milk is too hot, it can kill the yeast. Aim for a temperature just above body heat.
- Let the Dough Rest Fully – Giving the batter the full rise time makes the donuts extra fluffy.
- Control the Oil Temperature – Keep the oil at medium heat to ensure the donuts cook through without burning on the outside.
- Pipe Small Portions – Small drops ensure even cooking and keep the inside airy.
- Serve Fresh – These donuts taste best when enjoyed warm, right after frying.
Fun Variations
- Stuffed Mini Donuts: Use a piping tip to inject jam, Nutella, or cream into the center after frying.
- Matcha Powdered: Dust with powdered sugar mixed with a little matcha for a green tea flavor.
- Sprinkles: Dip in glaze and coat with colorful sprinkles for a kid-friendly treat.
- Savory Version: Reduce the sugar and add herbs or cheese for a savory snack.
Storing and Reheating
Bubble donuts are best eaten fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. If you want to reheat them, pop them in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes to revive their texture.
Final Thoughts
Making bubble donuts is as fun as eating them. The light, fluffy texture, golden crust, and endless coating possibilities make them a treat that fits any mood or occasion. Whether you enjoy them plain with tea, coated in cinnamon sugar, or dipped in rich chocolate, these little bites are bound to bring smiles to everyone at the table.