Dulce de Leche Donuts are soft, fluffy donuts filled or topped with rich, creamy dulce de leche. These indulgent treats are perfect for a sweet breakfast, dessert, or special occasion.
Author:Beth
Prep Time:1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 45 minutes
Yield:12 donuts 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Frying
Cuisine:Mexican-Inspired
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
2 large egg yolks
1 tsp vanilla extract
Vegetable oil, for frying
1 cup dulce de leche (for filling or topping)
Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions
In a small bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add yeast mixture, melted butter, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Mix until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Roll out dough to 1/2 inch thick and cut into circles using a donut or cookie cutter.
Place donuts on a parchment-lined tray, cover, and let rise for another 30–45 minutes.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry donuts 2–3 at a time until golden brown on both sides, about 1 minute per side. Drain on paper towels.
Once slightly cooled, fill a piping bag with dulce de leche and pipe into the center of each donut or spread on top. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
Make sure the oil temperature stays consistent for even frying.
Dulce de leche can be thinned slightly with milk if too thick to pipe.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.