Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Dulce de Leche Donuts combine the rich, caramelized sweetness of dulce de leche with soft, pillowy donuts for a decadent treat that melts in your mouth. Whether filled, glazed, or topped, the irresistible combination of fluffy dough and silky dulce de leche makes these donuts a show-stopping dessert or special breakfast indulgence.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flouractive dry yeastsugarwarm milksaltunsalted buttereggdulce de lechevegetable oil (for frying)powdered sugar (optional for dusting or glaze)

directions

In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and a teaspoon of sugar in warm milk. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.

In a large bowl, mix flour, remaining sugar, and salt.

Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

Punch down the dough and roll it out to about ½ inch thickness.

Cut out donut shapes or rounds, depending on whether you want filled or ring donuts.

Place the cut donuts on a tray, cover, and let rise again for 30 minutes.

Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C).

Fry the donuts in batches until golden brown on both sides, about 1–2 minutes per side.

Remove and drain on paper towels.

For filled donuts, use a piping bag with a long tip to inject dulce de leche into the center of each donut.

For topped donuts, spread or drizzle dulce de leche on top and optionally dust with powdered sugar.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 12 donuts.Preparation time: 30 minutesRising time: 1 hour 30 minutesCooking and filling time: 30 minutesTotal time: 2.5–3 hours

Variations

Roll warm donuts in cinnamon sugar for extra crunch.

Add a pinch of sea salt to the dulce de leche for a salted caramel twist.

Dip the tops in chocolate ganache before adding dulce de leche for double decadence.

Use coconut dulce de leche for a unique flavor variation.

storage/reheating

Store filled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day or refrigerated for up to 3 days.To reheat, microwave for 10–15 seconds or warm in a low oven to maintain softness.

FAQs

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, but they won’t be as light and crispy.

Do I have to make the dulce de leche?

No, store-bought dulce de leche works perfectly and saves time.

Can I make the dough ahead?

Yes, refrigerate after the first rise and bring to room temperature before shaping and frying.

How do I know when the oil is ready?

Use a thermometer to maintain 350°F or test with a small piece of dough—it should sizzle and rise quickly.

Can I freeze the donuts?

Freeze unfilled donuts once cooled, then thaw and fill before serving.

What’s the best way to fill them?

Use a piping bag with a filling tip to inject dulce de leche evenly into the center.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend designed for yeasted doughs and adjust liquid as needed.

How can I make them dairy-free?

Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and a dairy-free dulce de leche alternative.

Are these overly sweet?

They’re rich but balanced—adjust the amount of dulce de leche for your taste.

What oil is best for frying?

Use a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil for best results.

Conclusion

Dulce de Leche Donuts are a luxurious twist on a classic favorite, blending soft, airy dough with the irresistible richness of caramelized milk. Whether filled to the brim or elegantly glazed, these donuts deliver a bakery-quality indulgence right from your kitchen. Perfect for sharing—if you can resist keeping them all to yourself!