Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors with these 18 crispy Chinese doughnut recipes that will take your taste buds on a wild ride! From classic crullers to innovative twists, we’ve got you covered with a variety of sweet and savory options. Whether you’re a fan of traditional treats or looking to try something new, this collection has something for everyone.
Classic Chinese doughnuts like You Tiao (Chinese Crullers) and Sweet Glazed Chinese Doughnuts are always a crowd-pleaser. But why stick to just the basics when you can add some exciting twists? Try your hand at Sesame-Coated Chinese Doughnut Balls or Pandan-Flavored Chinese Doughnuts for a unique flavor experience. Or, if you’re in the mood for something sweet and savory, go for Red Bean Stuffed Chinese Doughnuts or Scallion Chinese Doughnuts. The possibilities are endless!
Classic Chinese Crullers (Youtiao)
These crispy, airy fritters are a staple in Chinese cuisine, often served with congee or used as a topping for noodle soups and stir-fries. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can make these delicious treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Active dry yeast (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add in the warm water while stirring with a wooden spoon until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes to allow yeast to activate (if using).
5. Heat oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium-high heat.
6. Roll out the dough into long strips, about 1/2 inch thick.
7. Fry the crullers for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
8. Drain excess oil and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Sweet Glazed Chinese Doughnuts
Sweet Glazed Chinese Doughnuts Recipe
These sweet and fluffy doughnuts are a popular treat in China, often enjoyed during festivals and celebrations. With this recipe, you can create your own delicious glazed doughnuts at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons honey, 2 tablespoons orange juice
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add yeast to the dry ingredients and mix until a smooth batter forms.
3. Add warm water and mix until the dough comes together.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until it becomes elastic.
5. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 1 hour.
6. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
7. Punch down the dough and cut into desired shapes.
8. Fry the doughnuts until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
9. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
10. To make the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, honey, and orange juice until smooth.
11. Dip fried doughnuts in the glaze while still warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sesame-Coated Chinese Doughnut Balls
These crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside doughnut balls are a popular treat in Chinese bakeries. With a simple sesame coating, they’re perfect for snacking or as a unique dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Vegetable oil for deep-frying
– Sesame seeds for coating
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough. Knead until smooth.
3. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into small balls (about 1-inch in diameter).
5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
6. Fry the doughnut balls in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
7. Remove from oil and immediately coat with sesame seeds while still warm.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Pandan-Flavored Chinese Doughnuts
These soft and fluffy doughnuts infused with the sweet aroma of pandan are a popular treat in Southeast Asian cuisine. Perfect for a snack or dessert, these bite-sized wonders will transport you to the streets of China.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 egg, beaten
– 2 tablespoons pandan extract or 1/4 cup pandan leaves
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add yeast, milk, and beaten egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth batter forms.
3. Add pandan extract or pandan leaves and mix well.
4. Cover the mixture and let it rest for 30 minutes.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (180°C).
6. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the dough into the hot oil.
7. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Red Bean Stuffed Chinese Doughnuts
These soft and fluffy doughnuts filled with sweet red bean paste are a classic Chinese dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With this simple recipe, you can create these delicious treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup red bean paste (available at Asian grocery stores)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, warm water, and yeast. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
5. Punch down the dough and cut into small pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
6. Place a tablespoon of red bean paste in the center of each disk, fold the dough over to form a ball, and seal the edges by pressing gently with your fingers.
7. Fry the doughnuts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
8. Drain excess oil and dust with powdered sugar (if desired). Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Savory Scallion Chinese Doughnuts
Treat your taste buds to a crispy, savory, and aromatic twist on traditional doughnuts with these Savory Scallion Chinese Doughnuts. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they’re sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, then cover with plastic wrap and let rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into small pieces and shape each piece into a ball.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
6. Fry the dough balls until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
8. In a bowl, mix soy sauce and sesame oil.
9. Brush the mixture over the warm doughnuts and sprinkle with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (includes resting time)
Coconut Milk Chinese Doughnut Twists
Coconut Milk Chinese Doughnut Twists: A Delicious Twist on Traditional Treats!
These sweet and indulgent treats are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a unique dessert to serve at your next gathering or just want to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add yeast and mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add coconut milk and beaten egg to form a smooth dough.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it becomes elastic.
5. Divide dough into 8-10 equal pieces and roll each into a ball.
6. Flatten each ball into a disk shape and fry in hot oil (375°F) for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Drain excess oil and dust with powdered sugar (if desired).
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Chinese Doughnuts
These tender and chewy doughnuts are infused with the bright, grassy flavor of matcha green tea, making them a unique and delicious treat. Perfect for a special occasion or as a fun twist on traditional doughnuts.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon matcha powder
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add milk and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add matcha powder and continue to mix until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes shiny and relaxes.
5. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
7. Punch down the dough and fry the doughnuts in batches, cooking for 2-3 minutes on each side.
8. Drain excess oil and dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Chinese Doughnut Rings
Elevate your snack game with these sweet and spicy doughnut rings, infused with the warmth of pumpkin spice. Perfect for fall festivals or cozy movie nights!
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine yeast, flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Gradually add milk, egg, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice; mix until smooth.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until elastic.
5. Cut into ring shapes and fry in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-15 minutes
Five-Spice Chinese Doughnut Sticks
These addictive doughnut sticks combine the warmth of five-spice powder with the sweetness of sugar and the crunch of sesame seeds. Perfect for a snack or as a unique dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon five-spice powder
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add five-spice powder and mix until combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and egg.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until a smooth batter forms.
5. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
6. Using a piping bag or a spoon, drop dough into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd.
7. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.
9. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top while still warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the size of the doughnuts)
Chocolate-Dipped Chinese Doughnuts
Combine the rich flavors of China with the decadence of chocolate in these unique and addictive treats. Perfect for a dessert or snack, they’re sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Chinese doughnut mix (about 12-15 pieces)
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Toppings: chopped nuts, sprinkles, or shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. Mix together milk, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar according to the doughnut mix instructions.
3. Fry the doughnuts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
4. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
6. Dip cooled doughnuts into melted chocolate, then sprinkle with toppings (if using).
7. Let cool and serve.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Sticky Rice Chinese Doughnut Puffs
These sweet and fluffy puffs are a popular street food in China, typically served as a snack or dessert. This recipe brings the authentic taste and texture of these treats to your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sticky rice flour
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sticky rice flour, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add in the sugar, milk, and egg to form a dough. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
5. Divide the dough into small balls and flatten slightly into disk shapes.
6. Fry the puffs for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Drain excess oil and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Sesame Chinese Doughnut Bites
These sweet and crispy treats are a popular Chinese dessert, typically enjoyed during special occasions. With the addition of black sesame seeds, these doughnut bites take on an earthy flavor and aroma that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Black sesame seeds for coating
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
3. Cover and let the dough rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into small balls and flatten slightly.
5. Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
6. Fry doughnut bites in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Drain excess oil on paper towels and coat with black sesame seeds while still warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caramelized Chinese Doughnut Knots
These sweet and crispy knots are a popular treat in China, typically enjoyed during festivals and special occasions. With this recipe, you can bring a taste of these delightful treats to your own home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, warm water, yeast, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then stretch into a knot shape.
5. Place knots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each knot.
6. Brush the tops with beaten egg and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. While still warm, toss the knots in confectioners’ sugar to caramelize the surface.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Taro-Filled Chinese Doughnut Rolls
These sweet and savory doughnut rolls are filled with a creamy taro paste, adding a unique twist to traditional Chinese pastries. Perfect for snacking or as a dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup taro paste (see note)
– Sesame seeds or confectioner’s sugar for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, warm water, and yeast. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (180°C).
5. Divide the dough into small pieces and roll out each piece into a thin sheet.
6. Place a tablespoon of taro paste in the center, fold, and seal the edges.
7. Fry the rolls for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
8. Drain excess oil and sprinkle with sesame seeds or confectioner’s sugar (if using).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Crispy Almond Chinese Doughnut Strips
These sweet and crispy strips are a popular street food in China, perfect for snacking or as a dessert topping. This recipe makes about 20-25 strips.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough.
3. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into strips, about 4-6 inches long.
6. Fry in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Drain excess oil and toss with granulated sugar and sliced almonds.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total (including frying time)
Ginger-Infused Chinese Doughnut Coils
Experience the fusion of sweet and spicy flavors with these crispy and chewy doughnut coils infused with warm ginger.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add in vegetable oil and mix until the dough comes together.
3. Add eggs one at a time, followed by grated ginger, and mix until smooth.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes elastic and slightly sticky.
5. Cover and let rest for 1 hour in a warm place.
6. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each piece into a coil shape.
7. Fry the coils in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Drain excess oil on paper towels and dust with powdered sugar (optional).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lotus Seed Paste Chinese Doughnuts
These sweet and fluffy doughnuts are a popular treat during the Lunar New Year in China, filled with a fragrant lotus seed paste. With this recipe, you can enjoy these delightful treats all year round.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lotus seed paste (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add yeast to the warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes. Then, add yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth.
4. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Punch down the dough and cut into small pieces. Fry the doughnuts until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Drain excess oil and let the doughnuts cool before filling with lotus seed paste.
Cooking Time: About 2 hours (including rising time)
Summary
Indulge in the crispy, chewy goodness of traditional Chinese doughnuts with a twist! This article features 18 mouthwatering recipes that combine classic flavors with modern twists. From sweet treats like glazed and chocolate-dipped delights to savory options like scallion and five-spice flavored rings, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making classic crullers, pan-fried doughnut balls coated in sesame seeds, or even pumpkin spice-infused doughnuts. With flavors ranging from matcha green tea to black sesame and taro, this collection of recipes is sure to satisfy any sweet or savory craving.
