Imagine the moment when the delightful aroma of freshly fried dough sweeps through your kitchen, instantly turning a simple day into a celebration. That’s the magic of Vietnamese donuts! I discovered this easy and satisfying treat during a neighborhood potluck, and it quickly became my go-to recipe for impressing friends and family.
With just a handful of ingredients, these scrumptious sesame fried dough delights are not only irresistibly crispy on the outside but also soft and pillowy on the inside. I love whipping them up when I’m in the mood for something comforting yet unique, offering a perfect blend of flavors that’s sure to brighten any meal.
Forget about the fast food runs—with this recipe, you’ll be enjoying homemade sweetness in no time. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to dive into the crispy goodness of these Vietnamese donuts; your taste buds will thank you!
Why are Vietnamese Donuts a Must-Try?
Irresistible Texture: The contrast of the crispy exterior and fluffy interior makes each bite a different experience.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have these delicious donuts ready in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Unique Flavor Profile: Infused with subtle sweetness and the nutty crunch of sesame seeds, these donuts take your snack game to the next level.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with family, these donuts will become the star of any table.
Try these delightful gems for a homemade snack that’s far superior to fast food options, and watch how quickly they disappear!
Vietnamese Donuts Ingredients
• Get ready for a delicious treat!
For the Dough
- All-purpose flour – 2 cups (280 g) creates a soft and pliable dough for that perfect texture.
- Sugar – 1/4 cup (50 g) adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the savory notes.
- Instant yeast – 3/4 tsp helps the dough rise, offering a light and airy finish.
- Baking powder – 3/4 tsp ensures your Vietnamese donuts achieve that fluffy consistency.
- Salt – 1/4 tsp enhances the flavors, making each bite more satisfying.
- Unsweetened almond milk – 10 tbsp (150 ml) at room temperature keeps the dough moist without overpowering the taste.
- Vanilla extract – 1/2 tsp lends a comforting aroma and depth of flavor to the donuts.
- White sesame seeds – 1/4 cup (35 g) provide a nutty crunch that perfectly complements the softness of the dough.
For Frying
- Oil – 1 and 1/2 cup (355 ml) ensures your Vietnamese donuts cook to golden perfection without sticking.
Get ready to fry up some magic with these ingredients!
How to Make Vietnamese Donuts
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, instant yeast, baking powder, and salt until evenly mixed. This creates the foundation for your dough.
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Mix Wet Components: Pour in the unsweetened almond milk and vanilla extract. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a soft dough begins to form. Embrace the dough’s warmth as it comes together!
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Add Sesame Seeds: Gently fold in the white sesame seeds, coating them throughout the dough. This adds delightful crunch and flavor to every bite of your Vietnamese donuts!
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Heat Oil: In a frying pan, heat the oil over medium heat until it shimmers. A good test is to drop a small piece of dough; it should sizzle immediately.
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Fry Dough: Carefully drop spoonfuls of the dough into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown, turning occasionally for even cooking—about 3-4 minutes.
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Drain Excess Oil: Once perfectly crispy, remove the donuts from the oil and place them on paper towels. This allows the excess oil to drain, ensuring they’re not greasy.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Vietnamese Donuts
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Dough Consistency: Ensure your dough is soft but not sticky. If it’s too wet, add a bit more flour; it should easily form a ball.
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Oil Temperature: Maintain consistent oil temperature by testing it with a small piece of dough. If it browns too quickly, lower the heat to avoid burning your Vietnamese donuts!
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Even Frying: Fry in batches to allow space for even cooking. Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy donuts.
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Storage Secrets: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature, but for the best taste, enjoy them fresh on the same day!
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Custom Flavoring: Feel free to experiment with spices or other flavors in the dough. A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a unique twist to your Vietnamese donuts!
Make Ahead Options
You can easily prepare these Vietnamese donuts ahead of time, making them a fantastic option for meal prep! To save time, mix the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, yeast, baking powder, and salt) and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The wet ingredients, including almond milk and vanilla extract, can also be combined and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to fry, simply mix the wet and dry ingredients together, fold in the sesame seeds, and fry the dough as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delightful, crispy texture while streamlining your cooking process. Just follow these steps and enjoy delicious homemade Vietnamese donuts with ease!
What to Serve with Vietnamese Donuts?
Elevate your indulgent treat with delightful companions that enhance the flavors of these delightful fried bites.
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Coconut Cream Dip: This rich, velvety dip adds a tropical twist, perfectly contrasting the lightness of the donuts.
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Fruit Salad: A fresh mix of seasonal fruits introduces brightness and a splash of acidity, balancing out the sweetness beautifully.
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Tea or Coffee: A steaming cup of green tea or coffee complements the rich flavor of these donuts, enhancing your snacking experience.
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Chili Sauce: For a spicy kick, serve with a drizzle of chili sauce. The heat cuts through the sweetness, creating a fun flavor explosion.
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Powdered Sugar Dusting: A simple dusting of powdered sugar makes these donuts feel like a fancy dessert and adds a sweet finishing touch.
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Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey brings floral notes to this treat, enhancing its natural sweetness and making every bite even more irresistible.
Serve these accompaniments to turn your Vietnamese donuts into an unforgettable dessert spread!
Vietnamese Donut Variations
Let your creativity shine by customizing these delightful donuts to suit your taste and dietary preferences!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a safe and tasty treat.
Try brands like King Arthur or Bob’s Red Mill, ensuring they contain xanthan gum for proper texture. -
Dairy-Free: Use any plant-based milk, such as coconut or oat milk, in place of almond milk for a creamier flavor.
Coconut milk adds a hint of tropical sweetness, enhancing your donuts’ allure! -
Add Spices: Incorporate a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg in the dough to elevate the flavor profile with warmth and sweetness.
These spices work beautifully with the sesame seeds, creating a cozy, aromatic experience. -
Chocolate Drizzle: After frying, melt dark or white chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled donuts for an indulgent twist.
Chocolate transforms these treats into a dessert-worthy delight, perfect for special occasions or celebrations! -
Savory Option: Replace sugar with cheese (like feta or parmesan) and add dried herbs in the dough for a tasty appetizer.
These savory donuts pair well with dips and would make a great addition to any snack table! -
Kick of Heat: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the dough for exciting spicy notes.
This twist will surprise your guests, offering them a delicious heat in each bite! -
Fruit Zest: Add lemon or orange zest to the dough to introduce a fresh, citrusy aroma that balances the richness perfectly.
The brightness from the zest truly lifts the flavor, making each donut feel light and zesty! -
Nutty Crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, along with sesame seeds for an extra crunchy bite.
This addition presents a delightful surprise and enhances the overall texture, making every treat feel gourmet.
How to Store and Freeze Vietnamese Donuts
Room Temperature: Keep leftover Vietnamese donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their soft texture.
Fridge: If you need to store them longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days; you may lose some crispiness. Reheat before enjoying!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To revive their original texture, reheat the frozen Vietnamese donuts in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Vietnamese Donuts Recipe FAQs
What are the best sesame seeds to use for Vietnamese donuts?
Absolutely! When selecting sesame seeds, I recommend using white sesame seeds for a classic flavor and aesthetic. They’re naturally nutty and complement the sweetness of the dough beautifully. Be sure to check that they are fresh, avoiding any that look discolored or stale.
How should I store leftover Vietnamese donuts?
For optimal freshness, keep any leftover Vietnamese donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you notice them getting a bit hard, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to regain some softness!
Can I freeze Vietnamese donuts?
Yes! To freeze your delicious Vietnamese donuts, first allow them to cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Once frozen, you can transfer them to a freezer-safe bag where they will stay fresh for up to 2 months.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If you find your dough is too sticky while mixing, don’t worry! Simply sprinkle in a bit more flour, about a tablespoon at a time, kneading it in until it reaches a soft but manageable consistency. Remember, it’s better to start with less flour, as you can always add more!
Are Vietnamese donuts safe for people with nut allergies?
Great question! The almond milk can be substituted with oat milk or a nut-free alternative to ensure it’s safe for individuals with nut allergies. Always check ingredient labels if you’re hosting someone with dietary restrictions!
What is the best way to reheat freezing Vietnamese donuts?
To revive your frozen Vietnamese donuts, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the donuts on a baking sheet and heat them for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps retain their delightful crispiness while warming them up perfectly!
Airy Vietnamese Donuts Perfect for Homemade Snacking
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, instant yeast, baking powder, and salt until evenly mixed.
- Pour in the unsweetened almond milk and vanilla extract. Stir until a soft dough begins to form.
- Gently fold in the white sesame seeds, coating them throughout the dough.
- In a frying pan, heat the oil over medium heat until it shimmers.
- Carefully drop spoonfuls of the dough into the hot oil, frying until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
- Once crispy, remove the donuts from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.