Dunkin's Munchkins are bite-sized, soft doughnut holes available in a variety of flavors like glazed, powdered sugar, and chocolate, delivering a sweet and fluffy treat perfect for sharing or snacking on the go.
Equipments
- Mixing bowls
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Sifter
- Dough cutter or bench scraper
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
- Slotted spoon
- Cooling rack
- Tongs
- Small bowls (for coatings: glaze, powdered sugar, etc.)
- Thermometer (oil/frying)
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 3/4 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for coating)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 cup chocolate chips (for chocolate glaze)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (for chocolate glaze)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar (for classic glaze)
- 3-4 tablespoons milk (for classic glaze)
Active dry yeast must be dissolved in warm water at about 110degF to properly activate and ensure dough rises correctly. Whole milk should also be warmed to blend smoothly with melted butter and sugar, aiding in a tender dough texture. When frying your doughnut holes in vegetable oil, maintain the temperature with a thermometer between 350degF and 375degF to achieve a golden, fluffy result without oil absorption. For coatings like powdered sugar and chocolate glaze, prepare small bowls to keep your ingredients organized and ensure an even coating. Your copycat Dunkin' Munchkins will closely match the original when these ingredient temperatures and precise measurements are followed carefully.
Instructions
- Bloom yeast: Combine warm water and yeast in a mixing bowl; let sit until foamy.
- Mix wet ingredients: Add warmed milk, granulated sugar, melted butter, and eggs to yeast mixture.
- Sift and add dry ingredients: Sift flour and salt, then add gradually to wet ingredients, mixing until dough forms.
- Knead dough: Knead dough by hand or with stand mixer until smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Transfer dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1-2 hours).
- Roll out dough: Punch down dough, transfer to lightly floured surface, and roll to about 1/2-inch thickness.
- Cut dough: Use a dough cutter or small round cutter to shape dough into bite-sized balls.
- Second rise: Place dough balls on parchment-lined baking sheet; cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Heat oil: Preheat oil in deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry dough: Fry dough balls in batches, flipping with a slotted spoon or tongs, until golden brown.
- Drain: Remove and place on cooling rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Prepare coatings:
- Classic glaze: Whisk confectioners’ sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Powdered sugar: Place in a small bowl.
- Granulated sugar: Place in a small bowl.
- Chocolate glaze: Heat heavy cream, pour over chocolate chips, let sit, then stir until smooth.
- Coat Munchkins:
- Toss in powdered or granulated sugar while warm, or dip in classic or chocolate glaze, then let set on cooling rack.
- Serve and enjoy.
Substitution
Dunkin's Munchkins copycat doughnut holes can be customized by substituting whole milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option without sacrificing moisture. If you don't have active dry yeast, instant yeast can be used directly in the flour, but reduce the warm water slightly to maintain dough consistency. Vegetable oil is preferred for frying due to its high smoke point, but canola or peanut oil are suitable alternatives for a similar crispy texture. You can vary the coatings by using cinnamon sugar, crushed nuts, or matcha powder to create unique flavor profiles that suit your taste. Your choice of mixing equipment, such as a stand mixer or hand mixer, only impacts convenience, not the quality of the doughnut holes.
Tips
Ensure the oil temperature stays steady at 350degF (175degC) for even frying and avoid greasy Munchkins. When kneading, the dough should be smooth and elastic to develop the right texture for soft doughnut holes. After shaping, let your dough balls rise sufficiently--about 30 to 45 minutes--to ensure they puff up properly during frying. Use your thermometer to monitor oil heat, and remember to coat your Munchkins while still warm for the best adhesion of glazes or sugar coatings.
Nutritions
Dunkin's Munchkins provide a quick energy boost with their high carbohydrate content derived from flour and sugar, making them an ideal snack for a quick pick-me-up. Each bite contains fats from butter and frying oil, contributing to their tender texture but also increasing calorie density. Protein is present in moderate amounts due to eggs and milk in the dough, supporting muscle repair and satiety. Your consumption of Munchkins should be balanced with overall dietary needs, especially considering their sweetness and fried nature.
Storage
Store your Dunkin's Munchkins in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their soft and fluffy texture for up to 2 days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 1 week, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving to restore softness. For extended storage, freeze the Munchkins in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container, and thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Variation or Alternatives
For a healthier variation, try baking the Munchkins instead of frying; place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375degF (190degC) for 10-12 minutes until golden. You can substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk to add a dairy-free option while retaining moisture in your dough. To create a unique twist, incorporate cinnamon and nutmeg into the dry ingredients or roll the dough balls in cinnamon sugar before the second rise. For a fun filling, inject fruit preserves or cream cheese into the fried Munchkins using a piping bag after they cool slightly.
Allergies
Dunkin's Munchkins contain common allergens including eggs, dairy (milk, butter, heavy cream), and wheat (all-purpose flour). Your reaction to these ingredients depends on your specific allergies or intolerances, such as egg allergy, lactose intolerance, or gluten sensitivity. Always check ingredient labels carefully and consult with your healthcare provider if you have concerns about food allergies.
Why this recipe?
Dunkin's Munchkins menu offers bite-sized doughnut holes that deliver a perfect balance of sweetness and texture, making each bite delightful and easy to enjoy. The variety of flavors, from classic glazed to chocolate-filled, caters to diverse taste preferences, ensuring there's something for everyone. Crafting a copycat version allows you to recreate these popular treats at home, saving money while customizing ingredients to your liking. Your homemade Munchkins can match the original's irresistible appeal, making it a rewarding and delicious experience.