Growing up in Saigon, I have so many fond memories of Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts!). My grandma would take me to the local market every Sunday, and we’d always stop by her favorite Bánh Tiêu stand. The smell of freshly fried dough and sweet coconut would fill the air, drawing in everyone within a mile radius. Grandma would order a dozen, handing me one still warm and crispy from the oil. I’d eagerly take a bite, the soft interior melting in my mouth as the crunchy exterior gave way. It’s a flavor and feeling I’ll never forget – pure comfort and nostalgia in every single bite. That’s why this Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts!) recipe has become my go-to, allowing me to recreate those cherished moments in my own kitchen.
Why This Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts!) Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts!)
This Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts!) recipe is truly special because it nails the balance of fluffy, airy interiors and perfectly crisp, golden-brown outsides. The secret? It all comes down to the precise ratio of ingredients and frying technique. This recipe yields an impressive 12 donuts, ensuring you have plenty to share (or hoard for yourself!).
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these irresistible Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts!), you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients: all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, coconut milk, and vegetable oil for frying. That’s it! Each of these components plays a crucial role in achieving the signature Bánh Tiêu texture and flavor.
Step-by-Step Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts!) Instructions
Preparing Your Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts!)
This recipe takes 30 minutes total – 15 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking. You’ll need a large mixing bowl, a slotted spoon or spider, and a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven for frying. Let’s get started!
1- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until well combined.
2- Gradually pour in 1 cup of coconut milk, stirring continuously to form a smooth, slightly sticky dough. Knead the dough lightly until it comes together.
3- Pinch off golf-ball sized pieces of dough and roll them into smooth, round balls. This recipe will yield exactly 12 donuts.
4- In a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F. Carefully drop the dough balls into the hot oil, frying for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
5- Use a slotted spoon or spider to transfer the fried Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts!) to a paper towel-lined plate, allowing any excess oil to drain off.
6- Serve the warm Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts!) immediately, dusted with a bit of extra granulated sugar if desired. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
For the fluffiest, most perfectly fried Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts!), make sure to work the dough as little as possible. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense donuts. Also, be sure to maintain the oil temperature between 350-375°F for best results. If the oil is too cool, the donuts will absorb too much oil and become greasy; if it’s too hot, they’ll burn on the outside before the interior is cooked through.
Serving and Storing Your Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts!)
Perfect Pairings for Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts!)
These 12 Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts!) are best enjoyed freshly fried and still warm. They make a wonderful snack or dessert, especially when paired with a hot cup of Vietnamese coffee or fresh fruit. For a heartier meal, serve them alongside a savory Vietnamese dish like Bún Chả or Phở.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts!) can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply pop them back into the oven or air fryer for a few minutes until warm and crispy. You can also freeze the unfried dough balls for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before frying as directed.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts!)
Creative Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts!) Variations
While the classic Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts!) is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to switch things up. Try rolling the dough balls in cinnamon-sugar, drizzling with chocolate or sweetened condensed milk, or filling them with a small spoonful of your favorite jam or custard.
Making Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts!) Diet-Friendly
For a healthier take on Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts!), you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. To make them vegan, replace the coconut milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk. And for a low-carb version, use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit in place of the granulated sugar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use regular milk instead of coconut milk?
A: While you can substitute regular dairy milk, the unique flavor and richness of coconut milk is really what makes Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts!) special. I’d highly recommend sticking with coconut milk for the best results.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This recipe makes exactly 12 donuts, with each serving being 1 donut.
Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: Baking Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts!) is possible, but you won’t get the same crispy, golden-brown exterior that makes them so addictive. Frying is really the traditional and preferred cooking method.
Q: How long do the leftovers keep?
A: Leftover Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts!) can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but you can also reheat them in the oven or air fryer to restore the crispiness.
Q: My donuts came out dense and greasy – what went wrong?
A: This is usually a sign that the oil temperature wasn’t hot enough. Make sure to maintain the oil between 350-375°F for light and airy Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts!). Overmixing the dough can also contribute to a dense texture.
Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts)
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 12 donuts
Description
Discover the secrets to making these divine, crispy-outside and fluffy-inside Vietnamese donuts in just 30 minutes! Bánh Tiêu are a beloved treat that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Vietnam.
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup white sugar
– 1 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil, plus more for frying
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. – In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and yeast.
2. – Add the warm milk, egg, and 1/4 cup of oil. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. – Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. – Cover the dough and let it rest for 15 minutes.
5. – Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball.
6. – Heat 2-3 inches of oil in a large pot or Dutch oven to 350°F.
7. – Carefully add the dough balls to the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
8. – Drain the fried donuts on a paper towel-lined plate and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
For a lighter texture, try separating the egg and whipping the egg white before adding it to the dough. You can also experiment with different fillings, such as sweetened mung bean paste or sesame seeds.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Desserts & Baking
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Vietnamese
Conclusion
Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts!) hold a special place in my heart, and I’m so excited for you to experience the joy of making them at home. This recipe is the perfect balance of simplicity and deliciousness, delivering 12 crispy, golden-brown donuts with a soft, pillowy center in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re reminiscing about childhood trips to the market or trying Vietnamese desserts for the first time, I know these Bánh Tiêu will become a new favorite. So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and get frying – your taste buds (and your loved ones) will thank you!
