Homemade Simpsons Donuts

Warm the milk gently in a saucepan or microwave until it reaches 110°F (lukewarm, not hot). Stir in the yeast and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. You should see it turn foamy—this means your yeast is alive and ready to work!

Tip: If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be expired or the milk too hot.

2. Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, whisk together the sugar, eggs, and melted butter. Pour in the activated yeast mixture and stir until fully combined.

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3. Form the Dough

Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes (or use the dough hook on a stand mixer for 3–4 minutes) until it’s smooth, elastic, and just slightly sticky.

4. First Rise (Proofing)

Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm area for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

5. Roll & Shape

Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface to about ½ inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters (about 3.5″ and 1″) to cut out classic donut shapes. Save the holes!

6. Second Rise

Place the cut donuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes, or until slightly puffed.

7. Frying Time!

Heat about 2–3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350–375°F. Carefully fry 2–3 donuts at a time, about 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown.

Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan or the temperature will drop too much.

Remove and drain on paper towels.

8. Make the Pink Glaze

In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and a drop or two of red food coloring until you get a smooth, pourable glaze with that perfect “Simpsons” pink hue.

9. Dip & Decorate

Once the donuts are cool enough to handle but still slightly warm, dip the tops into the glaze. Place on a wire rack and immediately top with rainbow sprinkles.

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Optional Toppings

Chocolate glaze (sub cocoa for some powdered sugar)
Crushed Oreos, candy bits, or cereal
Cinnamon sugar (for classic fairground style)

Storage

Best served warm and fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave for that just-fried feel!

Pro Tips

For an extra soft dough, try replacing 1/4 cup of flour with cornstarch.
Let your glaze set at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving to avoid sticky fingers.
Fry donut holes too—they’re great with just powdered sugar!

⚡ Nutritional Info (Per Donut)

Calories: ~250–300 (depending on glaze/toppings)
Fat: 10–12g
Carbs: 35g
Sugar: ~18g

Homemade Simpsons Donuts