The sweet, intoxicating smell of freshly fried dough fills the air, pulling you into a world of delight and nostalgia. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for incredible Gluten Free Yeasted Fried Doughnuts that are as indulgent as they are approachable. With two flour options—gluten-free oat flour and buckwheat flour—this recipe caters to your dietary preferences while maintaining that classic doughnut experience. Not only are these doughnuts surprisingly easy to whip up, but they’re also a versatile treat that can be customized with your favorite fillings, whether it’s rich chocolate spread or zesty raspberry jam. Perfect for family brunches or a cozy night in, these doughnuts promise to be a hit with everyone. Got a craving yet? Let’s dive into the fun of making them!

Why Are These Doughnuts So Irresistible?

Indulgent Flavors: These gluten-free doughnuts are a sweet escape, featuring flavors and fillings that will tantalize your taste buds, from classic raspberry jam to luxurious chocolate spread.

Versatile Options: With both gluten-free oat flour and buckwheat flour choices, you can pick the one that suits your dietary needs without compromising taste or texture.

Easy and Fun: Making doughnuts at home is a delightful experience—perfect for getting kids involved or impressing guests with your culinary skills.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these fluffy doughnuts will be the star of any gathering. Pair them with coffee or hot chocolate for an unbeatable combo!

Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough in advance, making it oh-so-easy to have freshly fried doughnuts ready whenever a craving strikes. For more gluten-free options, check out our Gluten Free Pancakes for a delightful breakfast option!

Proper Gluten Free Doughnut Ingredients

For the Doughnut Base
• Dried Active Yeast – This is the crucial leavening agent that ensures your doughnuts rise beautifully; make sure it froths to confirm freshness.
• Caster Sugar – Acts as a sweetener and helps activate the yeast; feel free to swap it with superfine sugar if needed.
• Warm Water – This will activate the yeast; it should be around 39-40°C (102-104°F) for optimal performance.
• Tapioca Starch – Provides a desirable chewiness; this ingredient is essential, and no substitutes are recommended.
• Mochiko Flour – Adds unique texture and moisture; if unavailable, you can use more tapioca starch as a substitute.
• Sorghum Flour – Contributes great flavor and texture; switch it with another gluten-free flour but adjust quantities as needed.
• Gluten Free Oat Flour OR Buckwheat Flour – Choose one for additional flavor—the choice can reflect your dietary preferences.
• Psyllium Husk – Vital for dough structure and hydration; it needs to be partially ground, so avoid psyllium powder.
• Xanthan Gum – This acts as a binder, ensuring your gluten-free mixture holds together; it also helps create a fluffy texture.
• Fine Sea Salt – Balances out sweetness and regulates yeast growth; use sparingly to not overpower the overall flavor.
• Baking Powder – Adds extra lift to your doughnuts; essential for that light and airy texture.

For Wet Ingredients
• Warm Milk – Enriches the dough pleasantly; using dairy-free alternatives will keep it gluten-free and vegan-friendly.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile; while optional, it’s highly recommended for a richer taste.
• Egg – Assists in structure and rise; substitute with aquafaba for a fantastic vegan alternative if necessary.
• Unsalted Block Butter – Adds richness and supports dough structure; for a dairy-free version, opt for a dairy-free block butter.

For Finishing Touches
• Sugar for Coating – A simple sugar coating that gives a delightful crunch; mixing it with cinnamon adds a warm kick.
• Filling – Options include seedless raspberry jam, chocolate spread, custard, or pistachio cream—pick your favorite to elevate the taste experience!

Remember, these Proper Gluten Free Doughnuts are not only filled with love but are a delightful treat meant for everyone at your table. Enjoy the endless possibilities!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Incredible Gluten Free Yeasted Fried Doughnuts

Step 1: Activate Yeast
In a small bowl, combine 2 teaspoons of dried active yeast with 1 tablespoon of caster sugar and 1/4 cup of warm water (39-40°C/102-104°F). Stir gently and let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This bubbling action signifies that your yeast is active, which is essential for the rise of your incredible gluten free yeasted fried doughnuts.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of tapioca starch, 1/2 cup of mochiko flour, 1/2 cup of sorghum flour, and 1/2 cup of either gluten free oat or buckwheat flour. Add 1 teaspoon of xanthan gum, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt. Mix well until all dry ingredients are uniformly blended, which ensures a consistent texture in your doughnuts.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine 1/4 cup of warm milk (dairy-free if desired) and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Crack in 1 large egg and beat until everything is well combined. Make sure the wet mixture is also warm to help activate the yeast fully and create that delightful fluffiness in your incredible gluten free yeasted fried doughnuts.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients, stirring slowly to incorporate. After they start to come together, add 1/4 cup of softened unsalted butter, mixing thoroughly until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. The dough should be thick yet pliable, and this is key to achieving the fluffy texture of your doughnuts.

Step 5: Chill Dough
Transfer the dough to an oiled mixing bowl, ensuring it is coated lightly to prevent sticking. Cover it with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours, or even up to 2 days if you prefer. Chilling the dough helps enhance the flavors and improves the texture of your incredible gluten free yeasted fried doughnuts.

Step 6: Shape Doughnuts
Once the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and divide it into equal portions. Shape each piece into a ball and place them on squares of baking parchment. Flatten each ball slightly with your hands, cover them loosely with a kitchen towel, and allow them to proof at room temperature for about 1.5 hours, or until they have doubled in size.

Step 7: Fry
In a deep skillet, heat oil to a temperature of 165-170°C (330-340°F). Carefully place a few proofed doughnuts into the hot oil, frying for about 2.5 to 3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Maintain the oil temperature for even cooking, which ensures your incredible gluten free yeasted fried doughnuts turn out perfectly crispy and fluffy.

Step 8: Coat and Fill
As each batch of doughnuts finishes frying, remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. While they are still warm, roll the doughnuts in sugar or a mixture of sugar and cinnamon. Once slightly cooled, fill them with your choice of seedless raspberry jam, chocolate spread, custard, or pistachio cream for an irresistible treat!

Expert Tips for Incredible Gluten Free Doughnuts

Check Yeast Freshness: Always ensure your dried active yeast is fresh. If it doesn’t froth when activated, it won’t help your doughnuts rise properly.
Temperature Matters: Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature between 165-170°C. This will prevent greasy doughnuts and ensure a perfect golden color.
Don’t Refrigerate Filled Doughnuts: Filled doughnuts can become hard if refrigerated. Enjoy them fresh, or store unfilled doughnuts in an airtight container.
Flour Substitutions: Experimenting with gluten free oat flour or buckwheat flour is encouraged; however, keep in mind that each will yield different textures and flavors in your doughnuts.
Coating Option: For an extra touch of flavor, mix cinnamon with your sugar coating. This simple tweak elevates your incredible gluten free doughnuts to a new level of yum!

What to Serve with Incredible Gluten Free Yeasted Fried Doughnuts

Imagine a cozy weekend morning, the sweet scent of freshly fried doughnuts wafting through the air, calling everyone to gather and enjoy a delightful breakfast together.

Creamy Coffee: A rich cup of coffee balances the sweetness of the doughnuts, enhancing the flavors with each sip.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits offer a refreshing contrast to the indulgent fried doughnuts, adding a healthy touch to your meal.
Chocolaty Hot Cocoa: Warm hot chocolate, with its rich, velvety texture, pairs beautifully with the doughnuts’ fluffy bites for a comforting treat.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a luscious topping allowing you to customize each doughnut for an extra layer of indulgence.
Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream beside the warm doughnuts creates a delightful contrast, perfect for dessert lovers.
Maple Syrup: Drizzling a bit of maple syrup over the doughnuts enhances their sweetness with its warming smoky flavor, making for a heavenly combination.
Caramel Sauce: For a decadent twist, serve with a small bowl of caramel sauce for dipping that attracts anyone with a sweet tooth.
Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of homemade granola on the side elevates the dish with a crunchy texture while keeping it gluten-free.
Chai Tea: The warm spices of chai tea create a wonderful flavor harmony with the doughnuts’ sweetness, offering a soothing experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Incredible Gluten Free Yeasted Fried Doughnuts are perfect for meal prep lovers! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by chilling it in the refrigerator after mixing. Just ensure it’s well-covered to maintain moisture. If you’re planning for a busy weekend, you can also shape the doughnuts, place them on parchment, and refrigerate for up to 3 days before frying. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them come to room temperature and proof for about 1.5 hours before frying. This allows you to have fresh, fluffy doughnuts at a moment’s notice, making them just as delicious as if made the same day!

How to Store and Freeze Gluten Free Doughnuts

Room Temperature: Fried gluten free doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh. If needed, keep them covered at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain softness.

Fridge: If you have leftover unfilled doughnuts, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Avoid refrigerating filled ones, as they can become hard.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfilled doughnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy frozen doughnuts, thaw them overnight in the fridge, and reheat in a toaster oven for a few minutes until warm, restoring that delightful texture.

Gluten Free Doughnuts Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and customize these delicious doughnuts to your heart’s content! There are so many fun twists you can try.

Dairy-Free: Substitute warm milk with your favorite dairy-free alternative like almond, coconut, or oat milk for a lighter version.
You can easily enjoy these scrumptious doughnuts while still adhering to a dairy-free lifestyle. Don’t shy away from experimenting!
Nut-Free: If someone has nut allergies, use rice milk instead of almond milk, ensuring safe enjoyment for everyone in the family.
It’s all about making delicious memories without compromising on safety.
Sweetener Swap: Try using coconut sugar or maple syrup for a more natural sweetener option in the dough.
The subtle caramel notes can beautifully enhance the overall flavor, giving your doughnuts a unique twist.
Extra Flavor: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg directly into the dough for an aromatic boost.
These warming spices can evoke cozy memories and a comforting atmosphere, perfect for fall gatherings.
Filling Options: Beyond jam, consider filling your doughnuts with lemon curd, peanut butter, or cream cheese for a twist!
Each filling offers a different journey of flavors; what will be your next adventure?
Gluten-Free Flour Mix: Instead of just oat or buckwheat flour, try blending other gluten-free options like almond flour for a different texture.
Experimenting can lead to a surprising and delightful outcome, making your doughnuts truly your own.
Chocolate Drizzle: Top your doughnuts with a melted chocolate drizzle instead of sugar for a decadent finish.
Indulge in those sweet moments with every bite—who can resist chocolate?
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sugar coating for some unexpected heat!
A little kick can add complexity and surprise to the sweetness of your incredible doughnuts.

With these variations, you can elevate your gluten-free doughnuts and cater to everyone’s taste. For even more guilt-free recipes, consider trying our delightful Gluten Free Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies. Enjoy your baking adventures!

Incredible Gluten Free Yeasted Fried Doughnuts Recipe FAQs

What type of flour is best for these gluten-free doughnuts?
You can use either gluten-free oat flour or buckwheat flour based on your dietary preferences. Both provide unique flavors and textures, but buckwheat offers a nuttier taste while oat flour contributes to a lighter texture. I recommend trying both to discover your favorite!

How do I store leftover doughnuts?
Fried gluten-free doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, keep them covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. For unfilled doughnuts, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just avoid refrigerating filled doughnuts, as they may become hard.

Can I freeze these doughnuts?
Absolutely! To freeze unfilled doughnuts, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once they are completely frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag where they can be kept for up to 3 months. This way, you’ll always have a tasty treat on hand!

What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough isn’t rising, it may be due to inactive yeast. Make sure your dried active yeast is fresh; it should froth when combined with warm water and sugar. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to start over with new yeast. Maintaining the correct temperature during proofing is also crucial—80°F (27°C) is ideal for yeast activity.

Are these doughnuts suitable for those with allergies?
While this recipe is gluten-free, you should consider other dietary restrictions as well. You can make it dairy-free by using a dairy-free milk alternative and a dairy-free butter. Additionally, replace the egg with aquafaba for a vegan option. Always check ingredient labels if allergies are a concern!

How can I customize the fillings for my doughnuts?
There are endless possibilities! Classic fillings like seedless raspberry jam or rich chocolate spread are popular, but you could also get creative with pistachio cream or custard. Don’t hesitate to mix and match according to your taste preferences!