If you have a sweet tooth and a craving for a delightful treat, you’re in for a treat today! November 5th marks the second National Donut Day of the year, and what better way to celebrate than by indulging in some tasty homemade donuts? While not as widely recognized as its June counterpart, this November celebration brings its own unique charm and deliciousness, coinciding with the end of Daylight Saving Time.
The Sweet Origins of National Donut Day
Believe it or not, there are two National Donut Days marked on the calendar. The first occurs on the first Friday of June, while the second takes place annually on November 5th.
The origins of the June celebration trace back to World War I, where the Salvation Army honored the “Salvation Army lassies” who boosted troop morale by serving donuts to soldiers on the front lines. On the other hand, the November celebration’s origin is less known, with speculation tying it to the birthday of the United States Marine Corps on November 10th.
Pixabay | Perfectly fried donut with a crispy exterior.
Bake Your Own Donut Delights
If you’re in the mood for some DIY donut magic, we’ve got you covered with a guide on the essential tools and gadgets to make the best homemade donuts. Get ready to create mouthwatering treats without even leaving your kitchen!
1. A Stand Mixer for Effortless Dough Preparation
To kick off your donut-making journey, invest in a stand mixer. The KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer is a fantastic choice—it’s durable, quiet, and compatible with various attachments, including a dough hook for that signature donut dough.
2. Cookie Cutters for Classic Shapes
The classic “ring” donut is a favorite, and for donut holes, a circular cookie cutter works wonders. YXCLIFE offers excellent cookie cutters praised for their easy cleaning and year-round usability with basic geometric shapes.
3. A Dutch Oven for Safe Frying
Frying your donuts requires a safe and effective tool like a Dutch oven. The Made In Dutch Oven is our top pick, ensuring comfort with its handles, consistent cooking results, and affordability.
4. Precision with a Thermometer
Frying demands precision, and a candy thermometer is your ally. Taylor Precision Products offers a highly rated, programmable thermometer with a clip to keep it securely attached to your pot.
5. Deep Fryer Convenience
Pixabay | Golden brown donut with a caramelized sugar glaze.
For those who prefer a more straightforward approach, a deep fryer is a popular choice. Breville’s smart fryer stands out with its LCD screen, automatic settings, and accurate temperature control, ensuring perfectly fried donuts every time.
6. Air Fryer for Healthier Alternatives
Health-conscious? An air fryer, like the Ninja Speedi, allows you to enjoy crispy, delicious donuts without excessive oil. Its large cooking capacity and user-friendly design make it our top pick for air fryers.
7. Donut Pan for Cake-Like Texture
For a denser, cake-like texture, consider baking your donuts using a pan. Wilton’s Non-Stick 6-Cavity Donut Baking Pans are ideal, featuring large cavities and dishwasher-safe convenience.
8. Mini Donut Maker for Adorable Bites
Embrace the cuteness of miniature donuts with Dash’s Mini Donut Maker. In just five minutes, you can enjoy seven simple and delicious mini donuts.
9. Precise Measuring Tools
Achieving the perfect donut requires precise measurements. Cuisipro Stainless Steel Measuring Spoon Set and Bellemain Stainless Steel Measuring Cup Set ensure accuracy for both small and large quantities of ingredients.
10. Whisking Magic with the GIR 11-inch Ultimate Whisk
Whisking is essential for toppings like glaze or chocolate sauce. The GIR 11-inch Ultimate Whisk is not only effective but also easy and comfortable to use, boasting a stylish design.
Pixabay | Sprinkled chocolate frosted donut close-up.
11. Piping Kit for Filling Fun
Whether it’s cream or jam, a piping kit, such as the one by Plateau Elk, makes filling your donuts a breeze. Users love its ease of use and sturdiness.
12. Cooling Rack for the Perfect Finish
After your donuts are done, a cooling rack is crucial to prevent greasy oil pooling. OXO Store offers a durable and generously sized cooling rack.
13. Frosting Finesse with Spatula
Finally, apply delicious frostings and glazes with precision using the Ateco 1385 4.5” Offset Spatula. Its narrow blade feels like an extension of your fingers, making frosting a joy.
With these tools in hand, you’re well on your way to creating a delightful batch of homemade donuts. Whether you’re a donut aficionado or a first-time baker, celebrate National Donut Day by treating yourself to the joy of crafting these sweet delights in the comfort of your own kitchen.
