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Spiderweb Donuts

Spiderweb donuts are crispy, sweet fried treats decorated with intricate web patterns that crackle and shimmer as they cook. Made with a soft dough enriched with yeast and layered with web designs piped before frying, they boast a delightful combination of crispy exterior and tender interior. Their chaotic web patterns create a spooky yet charming appearance perfect for Halloween festivities.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Halloween
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour for chewier texture
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar superfine dissolves easily
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast proof until bubbly for best rise
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup milk warm, can substitute almond or oat milk
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 large egg or flaxseed/chia gel for vegan option

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Rolling pin
  • Piping bag or plastic sandwich bag
  • Deep-fry thermometer
  • Slotted spoon

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Whisk together and let sit for 5 minutes until the mixture is frothy and bubbly, signaling active yeast.
  2. Add warm milk, melted butter, and the egg to the dry mixture. Stir until the ingredients are just combined, then knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. Shape the dough into a ball, place it in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size, filling the space with a yeasty aroma.
  4. Punch down the risen dough to release excess air then divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each piece into a small ball, then flatten into a thin disc about 15 cm in diameter with a rolling pin.
  5. Fill a piping bag or plastic sandwich bag with a corner cut off with the dough. Pipe web-like patterns on each disc—start from the center and draw radial lines, then connect them with curved lines to resemble a spiderweb.
  6. Heat oil in a deep pan to 180°C (356°F). Carefully lower each web-patterned disc into the hot oil, frying in batches. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side until the donuts are golden brown and crispy, with a crackled web surface.
  7. Use a slotted spoon to lift out the fried donuts, then drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Repeat with remaining dough discs.
  8. Once cooled slightly, dust the donuts with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for a spooky finishing touch.
  9. Enjoy your crispy, web-patterned donuts while they're warm and crackling—perfect for a Halloween celebration or a spooky dessert twist!

Notes

Ensure the oil temperature stays steady at 180°C for even frying. Practice piping the web pattern on parchment before applying to the donuts for cleaner webs. The web designs should be piped quickly to prevent drying out or cracking.