As a staple in many kitchens, donuts are a beloved treat adored by people of all ages. They’re versatile, delicious, and enjoyed across different cultures. When it comes to making donuts at home, one key factor to consider is the oil used for frying. The choice of oil can make a significant difference in the taste, texture, and overall quality of a donut.
With so many types of cooking oil available, it can be challenging to determine which one is the best for frying donuts. The right oil should have a high smoke point, minimal saturated fats, and impart minimal flavor to the donut. Additionally, it should maintain a stable temperature when heated and be budget-friendly, as frying requires a generous amount of oil.
When choosing the best oil for frying donuts, one should consider factors such as smoke point, flavor, health effects, and cost. An ideal oil should have a high smoke point, allowing it to withstand high temperatures without breaking down and producing toxic fumes. The oil’s flavor should be neutral or complement the taste of the donut, while its health characteristics should be as beneficial as possible, considering the frying process. Lastly, the cost is essential, as deep-frying requires plenty of oil, which could make the process expensive in the long run.
After thoroughly researching and experimenting with various oils, I’ve identified the top contenders for frying donuts. In the following section, I’ll dive deeper into the characteristics of these oils and why they excel in delivering perfectly fried, delicious donuts.
Best Oil for Frying Donuts
I have compiled a list of the best oils for frying donuts to make your donut-making experience a delightful one. Enjoy the deliciousness with these top picks!
This is a reliable choice for frying delicious donuts due to its consistency and kosher certification.
Pros
Kosher certified
Large quantity for long-term use
Stable frying performance
Cons
Heavy and bulky container
Limited availability
No smaller packaging option
I’ve recently used the Commodity Oil Donut Frying Shortening for frying donuts at home and had a pleasant experience. The kosher certification gave me peace of mind, knowing that this oil meets strict quality standards.
The 50-pound container provides a generous amount of oil, suitable for frequent donut frying or even for a small bakery. The shortening performs well during frying, maintaining a consistent heat level and leaving the donuts crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
However, one drawback with this product is the heavy and bulky container that makes it a bit difficult to handle and store. Additionally, Commodity Oil Donut Frying Shortening seems not to be as widely available as other oils, so you might need to source it online or find it in specialized stores.
Unfortunately, there isn’t a smaller packaging size available for those who want to try it out before committing to a large container. A smaller package would be convenient for people with limited storage space or those who fry donuts occasionally.
In conclusion, Commodity Oil Donut Frying Shortening is a solid choice for frying donuts, especially if you require a large quantity and prioritize kosher-certified products. Just be prepared to deal with the bulkiness of the container and potentially limited purchasing options.
This Amazon Fresh Peanut Oil is definitely worth a try if you’re in search of quality oil for frying donuts.
Pros
Great flavor for frying donuts
Large quantity at an affordable price
High smoke point for safe frying
Cons
Packaging may vary, causing some confusion
Not suitable for those with peanut allergies
Bulk size may not be ideal for those with limited storage space
I recently used this peanut oil from Amazon Fresh to fry some homemade donuts, and the results were nothing short of delicious. The oil heated up quickly and evenly and provided the donuts with a light, crispy texture that I had been craving. Additionally, the high smoke point made me feel safer since lower smoke point oils can be hazardous when frying.
What I appreciate the most about this peanut oil is the value. The 128 fluid ounce size is fantastic for anyone like me who loves to fry often, and the price is very competitive compared to other peanut oils on the market. Plus, I’m a fan of the Amazon Fresh brand, which consistently offers high-quality products at reasonable prices.
However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. It’s important to note that the packaging may vary, so don’t be alarmed if your bottle looks slightly different than what’s pictured. Also, this oil is not suitable for those with peanut allergies, so be aware of that. Finally, the large size of the bottle may not be ideal for those with limited kitchen storage space.
Not ideal for those preferring a pure olive oil experience
May not be suited for certain specific recipes
Limited availability in some regions
As someone who loves making homemade donuts, I’ve tried different frying oils, and I must say, Iberia’s Premium Blend has impressed me. The high smoke point, thanks to the 80% sunflower oil and 20% extra virgin olive oil blend, lends itself well to high-heat frying. My donuts always come out crispy and evenly cooked without any unpleasant burning or off-flavors.
The Iberia Premium Blend also excels in the health department. The sunflower oil is rich in vitamin E, while the extra virgin olive oil offers an abundance of chlorophyll, carotenoids, and vitamin E. This combination is not only heat-resistant but adds a rich flavor to my dishes that my friends and family can attest to.
Another winning feature of this blend is its versatility. I use it not only for frying but also for baking, grilling, salad dressings, and even in marinades. However, if you’re looking for a pure olive oil experience, this blend might not be the perfect choice. It may also not be well-suited for certain specific recipes that require particular oil types. Lastly, it might be limited in availability depending on your region. Overall, Iberia’s Premium Blend has become a go-to choice in my kitchen, and I think it’s worth trying out for frying donuts and beyond!
The Crisco Frying Oil Blend is a must-buy for perfectly fried donuts and more.
Pros
Versatile for frying various foods
Gluten-free
Kosher Pareve
Cons
Large container can be unwieldy
Not suitable for high-heat frying
May not be ideal for those with specific dietary preferences
I recently tried the Crisco Frying Oil Blend to fry up some homemade donuts, and I was delighted with the results. The blend of oils handled both cake and yeast donuts effortlessly, with the perfect balance of crispness and tenderness.
Storage and handling of the 1-gallon container was a bit challenging due to its size. Fortunately, I didn’t have to worry about pesky oil spills when pouring, as the container’s design ensured a smooth transfer to my frying pan. If the size isn’t an issue for you, this oil might be your new favorite for frying a variety of tasty treats.
In conclusion, the Crisco Frying Oil Blend is a versatile and accommodating option for anyone looking to fry delicious donuts and more. Just be mindful of the container size and the oil’s heat capacity, and you should have perfectly-fried foods in no time.
Comes in a large, 35-pound container that may not be suitable for small kitchens
May be considered slightly expensive compared to other oil options
Canola oil may not be ideal for those who prefer other oil types
As a donut enthusiast, I recently used Admiration Fry-n-fry Heavy Duty Canola Liquid Frying Oil to prepare a large batch of homemade donuts. I must say, the results were impressive. This oil gave my donuts a delightful and subtle flavor that elevated their taste to restaurant-quality levels.
From my experience using this oil, I observed that it works exceptionally well for deep frying. The fry-n-fry canola oil was able to withstand the high temperatures required for frying donuts, and it did not break down or become overly greasy. Plus, the fact that many US restaurants trust and use this product speaks to its quality and effectiveness.
However, I did find that the 35-pound container can be a bit cumbersome for those with smaller kitchens or limited storage space. Additionally, the price might be considered slightly higher compared to other alternatives. Moreover, some individuals may prefer other oil types, like peanut or sunflower oil, for frying purposes.
In conclusion, Admiration Fry-n-fry Heavy Duty Canola Liquid Frying Oil is an excellent oil for frying donuts, delivering a pleasant flavor and top-notch performance. Just be aware of the large container size and consider your preferred oil type before making a decision.
Buying Guide
When I’m looking for the best oil for frying donuts, there are a few important factors to consider. First and foremost, I focus on the oil’s smoke point. This is the temperature at which the oil begins to break down and produce smoke, which can negatively impact the flavor of my donuts. For frying, I want an oil with a high smoke point, typically above 350°F (175°C).
Next, I take into account the oil’s flavor. Some oils have a neutral taste, while others can impart a distinct flavor to the donuts. I usually prefer a neutral oil, as it allows the taste of the donuts to shine through without being overwhelmed by the oil’s flavor.
Additionally, I look for oils that won’t leave a greasy residue on my donuts. This can be influenced by the oil’s viscosity and its ability to be absorbed by the food. Oils with lower viscosity tend to be less greasy and are better suited for frying donuts.
Here are a few factors to compare when choosing the best oil for frying donuts:
High smoke point: You want to make sure the oil can handle the heat of frying without breaking down and generating smoke.
Neutral flavor: A neutral-tasting oil will allow the flavor of the donuts to shine through.
Low viscosity: Oils with lower viscosity tend to feel less greasy, which is desirable when frying donuts.
It’s also helpful to consider the type of fat in the oil. Health-conscious individuals might opt for oils higher in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, as these are considered healthier options. However, keeping moderation in mind, even oils with higher saturated fats can be used in small portions for occasional treats.
In summary, when choosing the best oil for frying donuts, focus on its smoke point, flavor, viscosity, and fat composition. By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be well on your way to selecting the perfect oil for frying those delicious donuts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of oil should I use for frying donuts?
I recommend using oils with a high smoke point, such as peanut, sunflower, or corn oil. These oils are capable of handling the high heat required for frying donuts and help create a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender.
Is there a specific temperature for frying donuts?
Yes, the ideal temperature for frying donuts is between 350 to 375°F (175 to 190°C). Using a candy or deep-fry thermometer can help ensure the oil stays within this range. Cooking at the right temperature helps create a perfect balance between a crispy exterior and a soft interior.
Can I fry donuts in vegetable or canola oil?
Yes, you can fry donuts in vegetable or canola oil. Both of these oils have a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, which makes them suitable for frying donuts.
Are donuts fried better in lard or oil?
This largely depends on personal preference. Lard can give donuts a richer flavor and flakier texture, but some people may not like its distinct taste. Oils with a neutral flavor, like vegetable or canola oil, are a good alternative for those who prefer a more subtle flavor.
What oil do popular donut chains like Krispy Kreme use?
Krispy Kreme and many other popular donut chains use blends of vegetable shortening for frying, which consists of oils like soybean, cottonseed, or palm. This type of shortening has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it suitable for frying donuts.
Is it possible to fry donuts in shallow oil?
It is possible to fry donuts in shallow oil, but the results may be less consistent compared to deep-frying. If you choose to use shallow oil, make sure to carefully monitor the temperature and flip the donuts frequently to ensure even cooking. Keep in mind that frying in shallow oil requires more attention and may result in uneven browning or a less crispy exterior.
What Is The Best Oil For Frying Donuts?
These options are sure to be a hit. So, gather your family and friends and enjoy. Let us know your thoughts!
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
