How to Make the Perfect Long John Donut at Home (Easy Recipe!)

If you love bakery-style donuts but want to make them at home, the Long John donut is a must-try! These rectangular, yeast-raised donuts are deep-fried to golden perfection and often topped with chocolate or maple glaze. Some versions are even filled with custard, Bavarian cream, or whipped cream, making them an indulgent treat.

Unlike traditional ring-shaped donuts, Long John donuts have a light, airy texture and are similar to éclairs—but with a delicious fried twist. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast with a cup of coffee or as an afternoon snack, they are always a hit.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make the perfect Long John donut at home, from mixing the dough to glazing and filling them like a pro. Get ready to impress your friends and family with bakery-quality donuts from your own kitchen!

What Is a Long John Donut? A Quick Overview

The Long John donut is a classic pastry known for its rectangular shape, fluffy texture, and indulgent toppings. Unlike traditional ring-shaped donuts, Long Johns offer a larger surface area for glazes, fillings, and toppings, making them a favorite among donut lovers.

What Makes It Unique?

The Long John donut stands out due to its yeast-raised dough, deep-fried exterior, and elongated shape. Here are the key features that set it apart:

• Yeast-Raised Dough: Unlike cake donuts that rely on baking powder or baking soda for leavening, Long John donuts use yeast, resulting in a light, airy, and chewy texture.
• Deep-Fried Perfection: These donuts are fried in hot oil, creating a golden-brown crust with a slightly crispy exterior while remaining soft and fluffy inside.
• Rectangular Shape: Instead of the traditional round donut with a hole in the middle, Long Johns are long and rectangular, allowing for more generous amounts of toppings and fillings.

Long John Donut vs. Éclair: What’s the Difference?

At first glance, a Long John donut may look similar to a chocolate éclair, but there are several key differences:

While both pastries are delicious, Long John donuts have a more substantial and fried texture, making them a heartier option compared to the delicate and airy éclair.

Popular Flavors & Variations

Long John donuts come in a variety of flavors and fillings, allowing for endless customization. Some of the most popular include:

• Chocolate Glazed Long John: A classic version topped with a smooth and glossy chocolate glaze, often paired with a custard or cream filling.
• Maple Glazed Long John: A fan-favorite featuring a rich maple syrup-flavored glaze, sometimes with added bacon crumbles for a sweet and savory twist.
• Custard-Filled Long John: A variation where the donut is filled with Bavarian cream, vanilla custard, or even Boston cream, making it a rich and decadent treat.
• Whipped Cream-Filled Long John: A lighter alternative where the donut is filled with whipped cream or sweetened cream cheese, giving it a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Beyond these, bakeries and home bakers love to experiment with seasonal flavors, fruit glazes, caramel toppings, and even peanut butter drizzles to create unique takes on this classic donut.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Perfect Long John Donut

Making homemade Long John donuts requires a few simple ingredients, but each plays a crucial role in achieving the soft, fluffy texture and rich flavors that make these donuts irresistible. Below, we’ll break down the essential ingredients into three main components: the dough, the filling, and the glaze/toppings.

Dough Ingredients: The Foundation of a Perfect Long John Donut

The dough is the heart of any Long John donut, giving it the light and airy texture that makes it so delicious. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Flour: All-purpose flour works well for this recipe, but for an even softer texture, you can use bread flour, which has a higher protein content and helps develop gluten for a chewier bite.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness to the dough and also helps activate the yeast for proper fermentation.
• Yeast: Active dry yeast or instant yeast is essential for making the dough rise and become light and fluffy. Make sure to proof the yeast in warm liquid for the best results.
• Eggs: Eggs provide richness and structure to the dough, making it tender yet sturdy enough to hold fillings and glazes.
• Butter: Butter adds flavor and moisture, keeping the donut soft while also contributing to the golden-brown crust when fried.
• Milk: Warm milk (whole milk is best) is used to activate the yeast and enrich the dough, giving it a soft and pillowy texture.

Pro Tip: For a lighter and fluffier donut, ensure the dough is well-kneaded and allowed to proof properly before frying. This will create the airy texture that Long John donuts are known for.

Filling Options: Adding Creamy Deliciousness

One of the best parts of a Long John donut is the optional filling inside. Whether you love a classic custard or a light whipped cream, here are some delicious filling ideas:

• Bavarian Cream: A rich and silky custard-like filling made from egg yolks, sugar, vanilla, and milk, often thickened with cornstarch. This is a popular choice for a decadent, bakery-style donut.
• Vanilla Custard: Similar to Bavarian cream but slightly thicker, vanilla custard is made by cooking milk, sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch together until thick and creamy.
• Whipped Cream: For a lighter, airier filling, you can use sweetened whipped cream. It pairs perfectly with chocolate or maple glaze.
• Chocolate or Mocha Cream: If you love chocolate, you can make a chocolate-flavored pastry cream or a mocha-infused filling for a unique twist.

How to Fill a Long John Donut:
Once the donuts have cooled slightly, use a piping bag with a narrow tip to inject the filling into the center of each donut. Be careful not to overfill, or the filling might ooze out when bitten!

Glaze & Toppings: Finishing Touches for Flavor & Texture

The glaze and toppings give Long John donuts their signature look and flavor. Depending on your preference, you can opt for a classic chocolate glaze, a rich maple topping, or even a simple dusting of powdered sugar.

• Chocolate Glaze: Made from melted chocolate, powdered sugar, butter, and milk, this glossy glaze is a staple for Long John donuts. It adds a rich and sweet coating that pairs well with cream fillings.
• Maple Syrup Glaze: A fan-favorite, this glaze is made from powdered sugar, maple syrup, butter, and milk. Some people even add a hint of vanilla or cinnamon for extra warmth.
• Vanilla Glaze: A simple yet delicious glaze made from powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, perfect for those who prefer a milder sweetness.
• Powdered Sugar: If you prefer a less messy option, simply dust the donuts with powdered sugar for a light, elegant touch.
• Caramel or Peanut Butter Drizzle: For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle caramel, peanut butter, or even white chocolate over the donuts.

Pro Tip: If you want the glaze to have a smooth, professional-looking finish, dip the donuts while they are still slightly warm, allowing the glaze to spread evenly and set beautifully.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Long John Donuts at Home

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to start making your homemade Long John donuts! This step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process—from preparing the dough to shaping, frying, and adding delicious fillings and glazes.

Step 1: Preparing the Dough (Mixing, Kneading, and Proofing)

The foundation of a great Long John donut is a well-made yeast dough. Here’s how to do it:

1.1 Activate the Yeast

• In a small bowl, warm 1 cup of milk (about 110°F or 43°C) and stir in 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) of active dry yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar.
• Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.

1.2 Mix the Dough

• In a large mixing bowl, combine:
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chewiness)
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
• Add in 2 eggs, 4 tablespoons melted butter, and the activated yeast mixture.
• Mix until the dough starts to come together. If using a stand mixer, use a dough hook on low speed.

1.3 Knead the Dough

• Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
• If using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed for about 5–6 minutes.
• The dough should be soft, slightly sticky, but not too wet. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.

1.4 First Proofing (Letting the Dough Rise)

• Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
• A good spot for proofing is an oven with the light on or near a warm window.

Step 2: Shaping and Frying the Donuts

Once your dough has risen, it’s time to shape and fry the donuts to golden perfection!

2.1 Roll Out the Dough

• Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough into a 1/2-inch thick rectangle.
• Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into rectangular pieces (about 4 inches long and 1.5 inches wide).

2.2 Second Proofing (Resting Before Frying)

• Place the cut dough pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover them loosely with a towel, and let them rise for another 30–45 minutes.
• This second proofing allows the dough to become extra light and airy.

2.3 Heat the Oil & Fry the Donuts

• In a deep fryer or large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat about 2–3 inches of oil (vegetable or canola oil works best) to 350°F (175°C).
• Carefully drop in 2–3 donuts at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
• Fry for 1.5–2 minutes per side or until golden brown.
• Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the fried donuts to a paper towel-lined tray to drain excess oil.

🔹 Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the oil temperature! If it’s too hot, the outside will cook too fast while the inside remains doughy. If it’s too cold, the donuts will absorb too much oil and become greasy.

Step 3: Filling and Glazing the Donuts

Once the donuts have slightly cooled, it’s time to add the filling and glaze them for the ultimate bakery-style finish!

3.1 Filling the Donuts (Optional, but highly recommended!)

• Use a long piping tip and piping bag filled with your desired filling (Bavarian cream, vanilla custard, or whipped cream).
• Insert the tip into one end of the donut and squeeze gently until the filling spreads inside.
• Be careful not to overfill, or the filling may ooze out when bitten.

3.2 Making the Glaze

Here are three delicious glaze options to choose from:

🔸 Chocolate Glaze:

• Melt 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips, 2 tablespoons butter, and 1/4 cup heavy cream in a heatproof bowl over simmering water.
• Stir until smooth, then dip the top of each donut into the glaze.

🔸 Maple Glaze:

• Mix 1 cup powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 tablespoon milk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
• Dip the donuts or drizzle over the top.

🔸 Vanilla Glaze:

• Combine 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
• Dip or drizzle over donuts.

3.3 Decorating & Final Touches

• While the glaze is still wet, you can add sprinkles, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of caramel or white chocolate for extra flair.
• Let the donuts sit for 5–10 minutes until the glaze sets.

Pro Tips for the Best Homemade Long John Donuts

Making homemade Long John donuts is a rewarding experience, but to get that light, fluffy, bakery-quality texture, you need to follow a few key techniques. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, these expert tips will help you avoid common mistakes and create perfectly fried, soft, and flavorful donuts every time.

1. How to Get a Fluffy, Bakery-Style Texture

A well-made Long John donut should have a light, airy inside with a slightly crisp golden-brown exterior. Achieving this requires proper proofing, the right dough consistency, and maintaining the ideal frying temperature.

1.1 Master the Proofing Process

Proofing (letting the dough rise) is one of the most important steps for creating a soft, pillowy donut.

✅ First Proofing (Bulk Fermentation):

• Let the dough rise until doubled in size, typically 1–1.5 hours in a warm, draft-free environment.
• If your kitchen is cold, place the dough in an oven with the light on or near a warm stove.
• Avoid rushing this step—underproofed dough leads to dense, tough donuts.

✅ Second Proofing (After Shaping):

• After cutting the dough into rectangles, allow them to rest for 30–45 minutes before frying.
• This second rise helps the donuts become extra fluffy and light.

1.2 Ideal Frying Temperature for Perfect Texture

The right oil temperature ensures even cooking, a golden crust, and a soft, airy interior.

✅ Keep the oil between 350–375°F (175–190°C). Use a deep-fry thermometer for accuracy.
✅ If the oil is too cold (<340°F), the donuts will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
✅ If the oil is too hot (>380°F), the donuts will cook too fast on the outside while staying raw in the center.
✅ Fry in small batches (2–3 donuts at a time) to maintain the oil temperature.

🔹 Pro Tip: If you don’t have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil—if it sizzles and rises to the surface within 3–5 seconds, the oil is ready!

2. Avoiding Common Mistakes

Even experienced bakers can run into problems while making Long John donuts. Here’s how to avoid common pitfalls:

2.1 Overproofing the Dough

🚫 Problem: If the dough rises for too long, it can collapse, leading to flat, deflated donuts.
✅ Solution: Stick to the recommended 1–1.5 hours for the first proofing and 30–45 minutes for the second proofing. If you press the dough and it doesn’t spring back slightly, it may be overproofed.

2.2 Oil Temperature Too High or Too Low

🚫 Problem: If the oil is too hot, the donuts will burn on the outside but stay raw inside. If too cold, they become greasy and heavy.
✅ Solution: Keep the temperature between 350–375°F (175–190°C) and adjust as needed. Use a thermometer or test with a small piece of dough.

2.3 Dough Too Thick or Too Thin

🚫 Problem: If the dough is too thick, the inside may remain undercooked. If too thin, the donuts won’t have a light, fluffy structure.
✅ Solution: Roll the dough to a 1/2-inch thickness before cutting. This ensures even frying and a soft, airy interior.

🔹 Pro Tip: Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut clean, even rectangles for a bakery-style look.

3. Customizing Flavors for Unique Donuts

One of the best things about making Long John donuts at home is the ability to customize flavors with different fillings, glazes, and toppings!

3.1 Experimenting with Fillings

Long John donuts are often filled with custard, cream, or jelly. Try these variations for a delicious twist:

• Bavarian Cream Filling: A rich, vanilla-flavored custard.
• Whipped Cream Filling: Light and airy, perfect with fruit glazes.
• Chocolate or Mocha Cream: For coffee and chocolate lovers.
• Peanut Butter or Nutella Filling: A decadent option for chocolate-glazed donuts.

🔹 Pro Tip: Use a long piping tip and a piping bag to inject the filling evenly into the center of the donut.

3.2 Fun & Flavorful Glazes

The glaze is what makes a Long John donut visually appealing and extra delicious! Try these different flavors:

• Classic Chocolate Glaze: Melted chocolate mixed with powdered sugar and milk.
• Maple Glaze: Made with maple syrup and powdered sugar for a warm, sweet touch.
• Caramel or Butterscotch Glaze: Perfect for a rich, buttery flavor.
• Strawberry or Blueberry Glaze: Blended fruit and powdered sugar for a fruity twist.
• Espresso or Mocha Glaze: Coffee-infused glaze for caffeine lovers.

🔹 Pro Tip: For a bakery-quality shine, dip the donuts while slightly warm and let them sit for 5–10 minutes to set.

3.3 Toppings for Extra Crunch & Flavor

Take your Long John donuts to the next level with fun toppings:

• Crushed nuts (almonds, pecans, peanuts)
• Toasted coconut flakes
• Mini chocolate chips or sprinkles
• Bacon bits (for maple bacon donuts!)
• Drizzled caramel, peanut butter, or white chocolate

Serving, Storing, and Enjoying Your Long John Donuts

Once you’ve made your perfect homemade Long John donuts, the final step is knowing how to serve, store, and enjoy them at their best! Whether you’re indulging in them fresh, saving some for later, or wondering if they can be frozen, this guide will help you make the most out of every bite.

1. Best Ways to Serve Long John Donuts

Long John donuts are a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Here are some of the best serving suggestions to make the most of their delicious flavors.

1.1 Enjoying Them with Coffee or Tea

• A warm, freshly made Long John donut pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.
• Espresso or latte complements chocolate or custard-filled donuts.
• Chai or spiced tea enhances the flavors of maple-glazed or cinnamon-sugar-coated donuts.

1.2 Breakfast or Brunch Treat

• Serve Long John donuts alongside a savory breakfast like scrambled eggs and bacon for a sweet-savory contrast.
• Add fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries, or banana slices) for a balanced meal.
• Pair with yogurt and granola for a slightly healthier breakfast indulgence.

1.3 Dessert Option

• Turn your Long John donuts into a decadent dessert by topping them with whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, and sprinkles.
• Ice Cream Donut Sandwich: Slice a Long John donut in half and fill it with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream.
• S’mores Donut: Top with melted marshmallows, crushed graham crackers, and a drizzle of chocolate.

🔹 Pro Tip: If serving for a special occasion, warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving to bring back that fresh, just-made taste!

2. How to Store Long John Donuts for Freshness

Homemade Long John donuts taste best when eaten fresh, but if you need to store them, here’s how to keep them soft and delicious.

2.1 Storing at Room Temperature (Best for 1-2 Days)

• Store unfilled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Place a sheet of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• If the donuts have glaze, let them set before storing to avoid mess.

🚫 Avoid refrigerating unfilled donuts as it can make them dry out faster.

2.2 Storing Cream-Filled Donuts (Refrigeration Required)

• Donuts with custard, whipped cream, or dairy-based fillings should be stored in the refrigerator.
• Place them in an airtight container and store for up to 3 days.
• Allow refrigerated donuts to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before eating to restore their soft texture.

🔹 Pro Tip: If your donuts start to feel stale, pop them in the microwave for 5-10 seconds to soften them up again!

3. Can You Freeze Long John Donuts? (Yes, But They’re Best Fresh!)

While Long John donuts are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them if you want to make them ahead of time or save extras for later.

3.1 How to Freeze Long John Donuts

• Unfilled donuts freeze best. If you plan to freeze them, avoid adding fillings until after thawing.
• Place the donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour (this prevents sticking).
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container and store for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

3.2 How to Thaw & Reheat Frozen Donuts

• Remove the donuts from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for 30–45 minutes.
• To restore freshness, warm them in a microwave for 10–15 seconds or in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes.
• If you froze them unglazed, apply the glaze and fillings after thawing for the best taste and texture.

🚫 Avoid freezing cream-filled donuts, as the texture of the filling can become watery when thawed.

Conclusion

Congratulations on mastering the art of making homemade Long John donuts! By following this detailed guide, you’ve learned everything you need to know—from understanding what makes these donuts special, to crafting the perfect dough, frying them to golden perfection, and experimenting with delicious fillings and glazes. With just a little practice and a few pro tips, you’re now equipped to create bakery-quality Long John donuts right in your own kitchen.

Long John donuts offer a fantastic opportunity to get creative. Whether you prefer the classic chocolate glaze, a rich maple finish, or even something like a peanut butter filling, the possibilities are endless. And with the ability to store and freeze them for later, you can enjoy your homemade donuts for days or share them with friends and family on special occasions.

But no matter how you choose to enjoy them, one thing is certain: there’s nothing quite like a warm, fresh donut—especially when you made it yourself!

Remember, baking is an art, and perfection comes with practice. So, don’t be afraid to experiment with new flavors, fillings, and toppings until you find your ultimate Long John donut creation. Whether you’re treating yourself in the morning with coffee or serving them as the highlight of your next brunch gathering, your homemade donuts will surely impress everyone lucky enough to try them.

Source Links

King Arthur Baking – Donut Recipes

Serious Eats – Frying Temperature

The Spruce Eats – Eclairs and Donuts

The Kitchn – Freezing Donuts

Food Network – Donut Glazes