With the crispness of autumn in the air, I found myself craving comfort food that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. That’s when the idea of potato doughnuts hit me—why not take a beloved staple, mashed potatoes, and transform it into a delightful treat? These doughnuts are nothing short of miraculous, boasting a fluffy texture and a subtly sweet flavor that will have you forgetting all about your usual fast-food fixes.
In just a few simple steps, you can elevate your weekend brunch or family gathering with these heavenly delights. The secret lies in the addition of mashed potatoes, making them irresistibly moist while still delivering that satisfying doughy bite we all love. Trust me, no one will guess that they’re made with leftover mashed potatoes!
So, let’s roll up our sleeves and create something uniquely comforting that perfectly balances nostalgia with culinary creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone just looking for a fun cooking project, these potato doughnuts are sure to impress and delight!
Why are Potato Doughnuts so special?
Deliciously Unique: These Potato Doughnuts combine familiar comfort food into a delightful treat that surprises and delights everyone.
Fluffy Texture: Thanks to the mashed potatoes, these doughnuts are incredibly moist, ensuring each bite is light and airy.
Subtle Sweetness: The hint of sweetness complements the savory flavors, making them perfect for any time of day or occasion.
Versatile Preparation: Whether deep-fried or baked, you can customize your cooking method based on your preference, ensuring they fit your lifestyle seamlessly.
Family-Friendly Fun: Get the whole family involved in making these doughnuts, creating cherished memories while you bond over cooking.
Potato Doughnuts Ingredients
Get ready to create magic with these Potato Doughnuts!
For the Dough
- 2 cups (250 gr) bread flour – This provides a sturdy base for your doughnuts, ensuring they rise beautifully.
- 3 tbsp (37 gr) granulated sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness that balances the dough.
- 2 tsp (6 gr) instant yeast – Essential for that light and fluffy texture; no need for proofing!
- 1 egg yolk – Enriches the dough with its fat, giving your doughnuts a lovely color.
- 1 tbsp milk powder – Helps create a soft, tender crumb and enhances flavor.
- 3.5 oz (100 gr) mashed potato – The star of the show, ensuring the doughnuts are moist and adding delightful flavor.
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) cold milk – Brings the dough together and keeps it creamy; feel free to substitute with plant-based milk if preferred.
- 2 tbsp (30 gr) margarine/butter – Provides richness and enhances the overall taste.
- 1/2 tsp salt – Balances the sweetness and boosts the flavor of the dough.
For the Toppings
- Powdered sugar – A classic finishing touch that makes your doughnuts look irresistible.
- Cinnamon – A dash of cinnamon adds warmth and spice, perfect for autumn!
- Chocolate glaze – If you’re feeling indulgent, a chocolate glaze can take your potato doughnuts to the next level!
Let the excitement of baking begin, and enjoy every delicious bite of these unique Potato Doughnuts!
How to Make Potato Doughnuts
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Combine the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the bread flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt until well-mixed. This forms a solid base for your doughnuts.
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Add the wet ingredients: Stir in the mashed potato, milk powder, egg yolk, and cold milk. Mix until all the ingredients are fully combined, ensuring a uniform dough.
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Incorporate the fat: Carefully add the margarine or butter into the mixture. This step enriches the dough while enhancing its flavor and texture.
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Knead the dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes. You’re aiming for a smooth and elastic dough, perfect for rising.
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Let rise: Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and set it in a warm spot. Allow it to rise until it doubles in size, which should take about 1 hour.
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Shape the doughnuts: Once risen, punch down the dough to release air, then roll it out to about 1/2 inch thick. Cut into doughnut shapes using a cutter or a glass, forming classic rings.
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Second rise: Arrange the shaped doughnuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover again and let them rise for another 30 minutes, until they puff up.
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Preheat your oven: As the doughnuts rise, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures they’re baked perfectly and achieve that lovely golden brown color.
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Bake the doughnuts: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they turn a beautiful golden brown.
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Cool and serve: Once baked, remove them from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack before dusting with powdered sugar, cinnamon, or drizzling with chocolate glaze. Enjoy your homemade potato doughnuts!
Optional: Sprinkle extra cinnamon on top for a delightful finishing touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Potato Doughnuts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by making it through the first rise. After kneading, simply cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping it into doughnuts and allowing it to rise again. For best quality, shape the doughnuts and place them on a baking sheet to freeze for up to 3 days. Just remember to bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra couple of minutes to the cooking time! Enjoy the convenience of having these delightful treats with minimal last-minute effort!
Expert Tips for Potato Doughnuts
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Use Fresh Yeast: Make sure your instant yeast is fresh to achieve the best rise in your potato doughnuts. Old yeast can lead to dense dough.
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Perfect Consistency: When mixing, ensure your dough is slightly tacky but not overly sticky. Adjust flour as needed to avoid a heavy dough.
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Proper Kneading: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This helps develop gluten, which contributes to the fluffy texture of the doughnuts.
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Warm Rising Spot: Choose a warm, draft-free area for dough rising. A consistent temperature helps the yeast work its magic, producing airy potato doughnuts.
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Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your doughnuts as they bake. Oven temperatures can vary, and you want a golden brown color without overbaking.
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Experiment with Toppings: Once baked, get creative with toppings! Chocolate glaze, cinnamon sugar, or classic powdered sugar can elevate your potato doughnuts.
How to Store and Freeze Potato Doughnuts
Room Temperature: Keep your potato doughnuts in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness and prevent them from drying out.
Fridge: If you want to extend their shelf life, store the doughnuts in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just be sure to seal them well to avoid them becoming stale.
Freezer: To freeze, place the cooled doughnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to an airtight freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat your frozen potato doughnuts by placing them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warm. Enjoy them fresh and delightful every time!
What to Serve with Mashed Potato Bread?
The comforting aroma of freshly baked bread fills the air, beckoning you to create a feast that satisfies the soul.
- Creamy Mushroom Soup: The earthy flavors of mushrooms enhance the richness of the potato bread, making every bite feel like a warm hug.
- Herbed Butter: A spread of herbed butter adds layers of flavor, enhancing the savory notes of the bread. This combination is perfect for a cozy dinner.
- Garden Salad: Crisp greens with a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the soft and hearty bread, balancing the meal beautifully.
- Cheesy Garlic Shrimp: Sautéed shrimp in garlic and cheese bring a zesty twist to each slice of potato bread, making for an unforgettable pairing.
- Honey and Cinnamon Drizzle: Try drizzling honey mixed with cinnamon over warm slices for a sweet touch that tempts your taste buds.
- Savory Beef Stew: The hearty nature of beef stew complements the fluffy, moist texture of the potato bread, creating a satisfying, homey meal.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled white wine enhances the flavors and makes for a perfect sipping companion alongside your warm bread.
With these delightful pairings, a simple loaf of Mashed Potato Bread becomes the centerpiece of a heartwarming meal that everyone will love.
Potato Doughnuts Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delightful Potato Doughnuts and customize them to your taste!
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Vegan: Substitute the egg yolk with ground flaxseed mixed with water and use plant-based milk and margarine for a delicious vegan option.
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Spiced Up: Add 1/2 tsp of nutmeg or cardamom to the dough for a warm, aromatic twist that will elevate the flavor profile.
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Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate 1/2 cup of cocoa powder into the dough for rich, chocolatey doughnuts, perfect for a decadent treat.
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Filled Doughnuts: After shaping, fill the centers with jam or cream before the second rise for a sweet surprise in every bite.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute bread flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, ensuring it’s suitable for baking for a gluten-free version.
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Savory Version: Replace sugar with herbs and cheese (like cheddar) to create a savory doughnut, perfect for serving alongside soups or salads.
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Fruity: Fold in 1 cup of mashed bananas or applesauce into the dough for a fruit-forward flavor that brings a unique touch to classic doughnuts.
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Cinnamon Roll Twist: Before shaping, sprinkle the dough with a mixture of sugar and cinnamon, then roll it up to create a delightful cinnamon swirl in each doughnut!
Potato Doughnuts Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right potatoes for my doughnuts?
Absolutely! You want to use starchy potatoes, like Russets, for the best texture. They help create that fluffy, moist consistency in your doughnuts. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they can result in dense dough.
How should I store my potato doughnuts?
I recommend keeping your potato doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just be sure they are well-sealed to avoid becoming stale!
Can I freeze potato doughnuts, and what’s the best method?
Absolutely! To freeze your potato doughnuts, first, allow them to cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until firm, which takes about 1-2 hours. Once firm, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag, and they can be stored for up to 3 months. This way, you can enjoy them fresh anytime!
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
Very common! If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to inactive yeast. Make sure to check your yeast’s expiration date before you start. If your kitchen is too cold, try placing the dough in a warm area to encourage rising, or cover it with a damp cloth to retain warmth. Sometimes, simply giving it a bit more time can do the trick.
Are these potato doughnuts safe for pets, specifically dogs?
While the ingredients in potato doughnuts aren’t harmful to dogs, moderation is key! Ingredients like sugar and butter can be unhealthy for pets. It’s best to avoid giving them these treats, but plain mashed potatoes are perfectly fine in small amounts!
Can I substitute any ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you need a dairy-free version, you can easily substitute the cold milk with plant-based milk and use a dairy-free margarine. For gluten-free options, try using a gluten-free flour blend. Just remember to adjust the liquid amounts as needed, as different flours can absorb moisture differently.
Remember, experimenting and adapting is all part of the fun in cooking, especially when it comes to these scrumptious potato doughnuts!
Delicious Potato Doughnuts That Will Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the bread flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt until well-mixed.
- Add the wet ingredients: Stir in the mashed potato, milk powder, egg yolk, and cold milk. Mix until all the ingredients are fully combined.
- Incorporate the fat: Carefully add the margarine or butter into the mixture.
- Knead the dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes.
- Let rise: Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and set it in a warm spot. Allow it to rise until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.
- Shape the doughnuts: Once risen, punch down the dough, roll it out to about 1/2 inch thick, and cut into doughnut shapes.
- Second rise: Arrange the shaped doughnuts on a baking sheet, cover again and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the doughnuts: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the oven, allow to cool, then dust with powdered sugar, cinnamon, or drizzle with chocolate glaze.