Let’s discuss that snack quietly winning fans everywhere: Donut fries. Yes, you heard that correctly. These crispy golden strips of fried dough are a perfect combination of two popular sources of comfort: donuts and fries. They’re sweet, easy to grab for your next outing, and, let’s be honest, entirely addictive.
Whether you’re already a Doughnut Fries fan or just curious, this post will cover everything you need to know. I’ve got all the details from what makes Doughnut Fries so unique to how you can make them at home.
What Are Donut Fries?
Donut fries are exactly what they sound like: donuts shaped into fry-like sticks. Instead of the traditional round donut shape, the dough is cut into thin strips and fried until golden. They’re usually dusted in cinnamon or powdered sugar, giving you the same sweet vibe as a classic donut but in a fun, dippable form.
Why Are Donut Fries So Popular?
It’s not just the novelty of their shape. Here are a few reasons why people are going crazy for donut fries:
- Perfect for Sharing
- Unlike regular donuts,Doughnut Fries are bite-sized and easy to share. No need for a knife or awkward donut-splitting drama. Just grab a fry and go.
- Dipping Heaven
- Donut fries are basically made for dipping. Chocolate sauce, caramel, Nutella, whipped cream—whatever your heart desires, you can dip your fry in it.
- A New Spin on a Classic
- Donuts are already a crowd-pleaser, but shaping them into fries gives them a fresh twist. It’s the same nostalgic taste with a fun presentation.
- Let’s be real. Food trends thrive on how good they look in a photo. Donut fries, with their golden color and sugar coating, are pure eye candy. Add a cute dipping sauce on the side, and you’ve got a social media star.
How to Make Donut Fries at Home
Making donut fries at home is easier than you’d think. You don’t need any fancy equipment, and the ingredients are super simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide to whip up your own batch.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 egg
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Cinnamon sugar (for coating)
Directions
- Mix the Dough
- In a big bowl put all that combined flour, sugar, baking powder, or baking soda with salt and whip it into a sweet, fluffy concoction. In another bowl, combine milk, melted butter and eggs and mix it all together. Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients until they reach that amazing soft dough stage.
- Shape the Fries
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut it into fry-shaped strips using a knife or pizza cutter. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect—rustic fries have their charm!
- Heat the Oil
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or pot to 350°F. Make sure there’s enough oil to submerge the fries.
- Fry Them Up
- Carefully drop the dough strips into the hot oil, a few at a time. Fry them until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and let them drain on paper towels.
- Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
- While the fries are still warm, toss them in cinnamon sugar. This step is non-negotiable—it’s what makes them truly irresistible.
- Serve with Dipping Sauces
- Plate your fries and serve them with your favorite dipping sauces. Chocolate ganache, vanilla glaze, and berry compote are all winners.
Donut Fries vs. Churros: What’s the Difference?
A lot of people compare donut fries to churros, and while they share some similarities, they’re definitely not the same. The biggest difference lies in the texture. Donut fries are soft and buttery, while churros have a crisp exterior with a slightly denser interior. When it comes to shape, donut fries are thin and fry-like, whereas churros are typically longer and tubular.
Flavor-wise, donut fries are lighter, sweeter, and more buttery, while churros have a richer, slightly eggy taste due to their distinct dough. Both treats are often coated in cinnamon sugar or powdered sugar, but churros are sometimes served plain, relying more on dips like chocolate or caramel to add sweetness.
Where to Find Donut Fries
If you’re not up for making them yourself, don’t worry! Many places across the U.S. are hopping on the donut fries trend. Here are a few spots to check out:
- Dunkin’: Yep, even the big chains are in on this trend. Dunkin’ introduced its own version of donut fries, and they’re pretty good for a quick fix.
- Local Food Trucks: Look for dessert trucks or pop-ups. They often offer creative takes on trendy treats like donut fries.
- Specialty Cafes: Many independent cafes and bakeries offer their spin on donut fries. It’s worth checking your local spots!
Fun Ways to Serve Donut Fries
Sure, cinnamon sugar is the classic topping, but there are endless ways to customize your donut fries. Here are some fun ideas:
- Drizzle Them
- Skip the dipping and go for a chocolate, caramel, or strawberry sauce drizzle.
- Add Sprinkles
- Who doesn’t love sprinkles? They add a fun pop of color, especially for parties.
- Serve doughnut fries alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm-and-cold combo is a total game-changer.
- Make It Fancy
- Dust your fries with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh berries for a more sophisticated vibe.
- Ice Cream Combo
Donut Fries for Every Occasion
Donut fries aren’t just for dessert—they’re surprisingly versatile and can work for all kinds of events. Hosting a brunch? Serve donut fries with coffee and fruit for a casual yet memorable touch. Planning a movie night? Pair them with hot cocoa or milkshakes for a cozy, indulgent snack. They’re also a hit at birthday parties, especially for kids who love the fun shape and dippable sauces.
And let’s not forget about holidays. Imagine a tray of warm donut fries served alongside pumpkin spice dip at Thanksgiving or drizzled with festive red and green icing for Christmas. They’re a unique addition to any celebration that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe.
For more innovative fried recipes, explore our breakfast ideas to enhance your mornings.
Healthier Alternatives: Can Donut Fries Be Baked?
Frying is traditional, but you can also bake donut fries if you’re looking for a slightly lighter option. The texture will be a bit different—less crispy, more soft and chewy—but they’ll still taste amazing.
To bake them, preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and arrange your fry-shaped dough strips in a single layer. Brush them with melted butter and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden. Once out of the oven, toss them in cinnamon sugar while they’re still warm.
Why Kids Love Donut Fries
It’s no surprise that donut fries are a hit with kids. The fun shape makes them instantly appealing, and the bite-sized pieces are perfect for little hands. Plus, they can customize their experience with dipping sauces and toppings, making snack time feel like a fun activity.
If you’re making donut fries for a group of kids, consider setting up a DIY topping station. Include bowls of sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, crushed Oreos, and a variety of sauces. Letting them decorate their own donut fries adds a whole new layer of excitement—and a little bit of mess (but it’s worth it).
The Cultural Appeal of Fried Dough
Fried dough treats like donut fries have a universal appeal, showing up in various forms across cultures. From churros in Spain to funnel cakes at American fairs, people love the combination of crispy exteriors and soft, doughy insides.
Donut fries tap into this global love for fried dough while offering something fresh and modern. They feel nostalgic yet trendy, which might be why they’ve taken off so quickly. No matter where you’re from, there’s something comforting about a warm, sugary bite of fried dough.
Donut Fries and Coffee: The Perfect Pair
If you are a coffee enthusiast, you should definitely pair Doughnut Fries with your morning brew. The light, buttery texture of the fries is just what you want to offset the coffee’s strong flavor, providing an excellent balance. Dip into your latte, cappuccino, or even iced coffee, and start enjoying your day before it begins.
Serve with flavored coffees like caramel or hazelnut to make them extra luscious. The sweetness of the doughnut Fries will only add to the rich notes of the coffee, making that snack break feel like you just entered a tiny cafe.
FAQs About Donut Fries
What are donut fries made of?
Doughnut Fries are typically made with a dough similar to traditional donuts. The ingredients include flour, sugar, baking powder, milk, eggs, and butter. This creates a soft, slightly sweet dough that is shaped into fry-like strips, fried until golden, and coated in cinnamon sugar or powdered sugar. Some variations may use yeast-based dough for an extra fluffy texture.
Does Dunkin’ Donuts fry donuts?
Yes, Dunkin’ Donuts fries their donuts! Like most large donut chains, Dunkin’ uses fryers to cook their donuts, giving them that crispy outer layer and soft, airy interior. Frying is what gives donuts their signature golden crust and rich flavor. Even Dunkin’s popular Doughnut Fries are fried, maintaining that same crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside texture.
What is the best way to fry donuts?
The best way to fry donuts is by using a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot filled with vegetable oil. Heat the oil to around 350°F to ensure even cooking. The key is to fry the donuts in small batches, so the oil temperature doesn’t drop too much. Fry each piece for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown, then transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Should you bake or fry donuts?
Both options are great, but the choice depends on your preference. Fried donuts are the classic choice, offering a crispy, golden exterior with a soft and fluffy interior. Baking donuts, on the other hand, is a healthier option that skips the oil. Baked donuts are denser and more cake-like, making them a good choice if you’re looking for a slightly lighter treat.
Are donut fries just churros?
Nope! While they look similar, Doughnut Fries are lighter and more buttery than churros. The dough is also different, making them unique.
Are donut fries vegan?
Traditional recipes aren’t vegan since they include milk, butter, and eggs. But you can try swapping these for plant-based alternatives.
What are you waiting for if you haven’t tried donut fries yet? They’re a fun, delicious twist on a classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion—a cozy night in or a backyard barbecue. You can whip up a batch at home and impress your friends and family with a little effort.