As the sizzling sound of dough meeting hot oil fills the air, I can’t help but feel excitement bubble up inside me. Airy Vietnamese donuts are a delightful treat that can easily bring joy to your snack time or dessert table. This recipe offers a beautiful balance of crispy exteriors and fluffy, pillowy interiors, creating a comforting escape from the ordinary. With easy preparation and the option for gluten-free or vegan-friendly versions, these donuts are perfect for everyone to enjoy. The nutty crunch of sesame seeds adds a unique touch that’s sure to become a crowd-pleaser. Ready to dive into these heavenly bites? Let’s get frying!

Why Are These Donuts So Irresistible?

Simplicity in Preparation: This recipe requires just a few common ingredients, making it approachable for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Deliciously Versatile: With options for gluten-free and vegan-friendly adaptations, everyone can enjoy these treats. Pair them with a refreshing fruit salad or chocolate drizzle to elevate your presentation.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: The combination of airy texture and nutty sesame will keep family and friends coming back for more.

Perfect for Anytime Treats: Serve them at snack time, brunch, or dessert; these donuts will shine in any setting!

Long-lasting Enjoyment: Store leftovers for up to two days and simply reheat to regain that delightful crunch. Embrace the joy of making these delightful Airy Vietnamese Donuts today!

Airy Vietnamese Donut Ingredients

Get ready to create these delightful treats with just a handful of ingredients!

For the Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Creates a soft and pliable dough; feel free to use gluten-free flour if needed!
Sugar – Adds sweetness; coconut sugar offers a unique flavor twist.
Instant Yeast – Essential for quick rising; don’t swap with traditional yeast without adjustments.
Baking Powder – Ensures the donuts are fluffy and light during frying.
Salt – Enhances all the beautiful flavors in this recipe.

For the Wet Ingredients

Unsweetened Almond Milk – Provides moisture; oat or coconut milk can be used for a richer taste.
Vanilla Extract – Infuses aroma and flavor; using pure vanilla is recommended for the best results.

For the Coating

White Sesame Seeds – Adds delightful crunch and flavor; consider black sesame seeds for a striking appearance.
Oil for Frying – Use vegetable or canola oil; ensure it’s heated to 350°F for perfect frying.

With these simple ingredients, you’ll be just moments away from enjoying airy Vietnamese donuts that melt in your mouth!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Airy Vietnamese Donuts

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, 2 teaspoons of instant yeast, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Blend these ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined, ensuring a homogenous mixture that promotes even rising in your Airy Vietnamese Donuts.

Step 2: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Pour in 3/4 cup of unsweetened almond milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the dry mixture. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until a soft dough begins to form. Aim for a slightly tacky consistency that holds together without being overly sticky, making it easy to handle in the next steps.

Step 3: Fold in Sesame Seeds
Gently fold in 1/4 cup of white sesame seeds until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step adds that delightful nutty crunch that complements the airy texture of the donuts. Be careful not to overwork the dough to maintain its soft, pillowy quality.

Step 4: Prepare for Frying
Heat a deep frying pan over medium heat and add enough oil to submerge the donuts, aiming for a temperature of around 350°F. Use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the oil’s temperature—achieving the right heat is crucial for achieving perfectly golden-brown Airy Vietnamese Donuts.

Step 5: Fry the Donuts
Once the oil is hot, use a spoon to drop dollops of dough into the oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the donuts for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Carefully flip them with tongs to ensure even cooking and an enticing crispy exterior.

Step 6: Drain Excess Oil
Remove the fried donuts from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. This step helps keep your Airy Vietnamese Donuts light and less greasy, allowing their delicate texture to shine. Let them sit for a moment while you prepare for the final touch.

Step 7: Optional Sugar Dusting
If desired, dust the warm donuts with powdered sugar before serving. This optional step adds a sweet finish, enhancing the visual appeal of your Airy Vietnamese Donuts. Serve them warm—perhaps alongside a cup of coffee or tea—for an unforgettable snack or dessert experience!

Expert Tips for Airy Vietnamese Donuts

Dough Consistency: Ensure the dough is soft but not sticky; adjust flour as needed for a perfect texture that holds shape.
Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil at 350°F for even frying; too hot will burn the donuts, while too cool will make them soggy.
Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure each donut fries evenly and gets that signature airy crispiness.
Flavor Enhancements: Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices or flavored extracts to elevate the taste of your Airy Vietnamese Donuts!
Storage Solution: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days; reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crunch.

What to Serve with Airy Vietnamese Donuts

As the aroma of freshly fried donuts wafts through your kitchen, let’s transform this delightful treat into a complete meal experience.

Coconut Cream Dip: A rich and creamy dip that enhances the donuts’ sweetness while adding a tropical flare.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Juicy and vibrant fruits complement the rich flavors of the donuts, balancing indulgence with freshness. Try mixing mango, pineapple, and mint for a refreshing twist.
Hot Cup of Tea: A fragrant, warm beverage like jasmine or green tea pairs beautifully, cleansing the palate after each sugary bite.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling melted dark or white chocolate over the donuts adds a luxurious touch, offering a delightful chocolatey contrast.
Savory Spring Rolls: Crunchy and filled with fresh herbs, these rolls provide a savory counterpart, highlighting the texture contrasts beautifully.
Iced Coffee: The bold flavor of iced coffee perfectly complements the lighter donut, making each bite a refreshing indulgence.
Sweet Ginger Tea: A warming and mildly spicy tea that enhances the experience, pairing harmoniously with the sweet notes of the donuts.

Make Ahead Options

These Airy Vietnamese Donuts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can easily prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the dry ingredients and wet ingredients as instructed, then cover and refrigerate the dough. This not only enhances the flavor but also allows the yeast to work its magic while you focus on other meals. When you’re ready to fry, just bring the dough to room temperature, fold in the sesame seeds, and drop spoonfuls into hot oil. Your donuts will be just as light and delicious, ready to impress with minimal effort!

Airy Vietnamese Donuts Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and personalize your Airy Vietnamese Donuts to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these donuts accessible for everyone without sacrificing texture.
Dairy-Free: Swap almond milk for coconut milk or oat milk to add a rich flavor while keeping it vegan-friendly.
Spiced: Introduce a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, inviting aroma that will fill your kitchen.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some dark or white chocolate and drizzle it over cooled donuts for a luscious dessert upgrade. Imagine each bite bursting with decadent sweetness!
Savory Version: Omit sugar and fold in cheese and herbs for a delightful savory snack—perfect as an appetizer!
Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the dough for extra texture and flavor depth. They’ll offer a lovely crunch in every bite.
Fruit-Infused: Incorporate mashed fruit such as ripe bananas or strawberries into the dough for a delightful flavor surprise. These fruity variations bring a refreshing twist!
Fruity Dipping Sauce: Serve with a homemade fruit compote or a rich coconut cream dip for a pleasantly sweet contrast. It’s a beautiful way to enhance your donut experience, perfect alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea!

Dive into these variations and have fun experimenting. Your kitchen will become a canvas of delightful flavors inspired by the classic Airy Vietnamese Donuts!

How to Store and Freeze Airy Vietnamese Donuts

Room Temperature: Keep any leftover Airy Vietnamese Donuts in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can store them in the fridge, but note that this may slightly alter the texture. Consume within 3 days for best results.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the donuts by wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer-safe bag. They can stay fresh for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheat frozen donuts in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until they regain their delightful crispiness.

Airy Vietnamese Donuts Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my yeast is fresh?
Absolutely! To check the freshness of your instant yeast, simply add about 1 teaspoon of it to warm water (about 110°F) with a pinch of sugar. After 5 to 10 minutes, if it bubbles and froths, your yeast is fresh and ready to use.

What is the best way to store Airy Vietnamese Donuts?
You can keep any leftover Airy Vietnamese Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerating them is an option, but consume them within 3 days to enjoy the best taste and texture.

Can I freeze my Airy Vietnamese Donuts?
Yes! To freeze, wrap the cooled donuts individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore their delightful crunch.

What should I do if my donuts turn out greasy?
If your donuts come out greasy, it’s likely due to frying at too low of a temperature. Make sure the oil is consistently heated to 350°F. Fry in smaller batches to avoid crowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature. If they’re already greased, try placing them on paper towels immediately after frying to soak up excess oil.

Are these donuts suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! You can easily adapt the recipe for a gluten-free diet by using a gluten-free flour blend. For those who are dairy-free, simply substitute the almond milk with coconut milk. It’s all about making these delicious Airy Vietnamese Donuts accessible for everyone!

Can I add flavor variations to the donuts?
Very! You can enhance the flavor by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough or experiment with different extracts like almond or coconut. For a sweet treat, drizzle melted chocolate on top before serving. The more, the merrier with variations!