The aroma of sizzling dough wafts through the air, instantly transporting me to bustling Vietnamese street stalls where Bánh Tiêu—crispy sesame donuts—are lovingly crafted. I can’t help but smile as I recall the first time I tasted these fluffy delights, their perfectly hollow interiors waiting to be filled with sweet or savory goodness. These vegan-friendly Vietnamese donuts are not only easy to whip up at home, but their satisfying crunch and warm, tender bite make them a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, you’ll be amazed that you can create these mouthwatering treats in under two hours using simple ingredients! Are you ready to discover the joy of making your own Bánh Tiêu and impress friends and family with a taste of Vietnam?

Why are Vietnamese Donuts so irresistible?

Crispy Texture: These Bánh Tiêu offer a delightful crunch with a light and airy inside, making each bite a satisfying experience.
Vegan-Friendly: Whip up these treats without any animal products, allowing everyone to enjoy a piece of this culinary delight!
Quick Preparation: In under two hours, you can create these scrumptious donuts from scratch—perfect for an impromptu snack or gathering.
Versatile Fillings: Whether you prefer sweet chocolate or savory cheese, these donuts can be customized to suit any palate, ensuring that your creations are always a hit!
Cultural Connection: Bringing a taste of Vietnam to your home kitchen makes these donuts not just food, but an experience. You might want to explore more about cultural dishes that represent various countries.

Vietnamese Donuts Ingredients

• Create your own delicious Bánh Tiêu with these essential ingredients!

For the Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; can substitute with gluten-free flour for a different texture.
Sugar – Adds sweetness; consider using brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Instant Yeast – Leavens the dough; active dry yeast is a suitable alternative with proofing.
Baking Powder – Helps the donuts rise; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
Salt – Enhances flavor; reducing can create a lower sodium option.

For the Wet Ingredients

Unsweetened Almond Milk – Offers moisture and binds the dough; regular milk works for non-vegan variants.
Vanilla Extract – Adds a lovely aroma; it can be omitted for a more neutral taste.

For Coating and Frying

White Sesame Seeds – Provides texture and flavor; swap with black sesame seeds for a striking appearance.
Oil for Frying – Necessary for cooking; use vegetable or canola oil for a neutral taste.

Dive into the experience of making your own Vietnamese donuts!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Sesame Bánh Tiêu: Traditional Vietnamese Donuts

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of instant yeast, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Ensure the yeast is evenly distributed, as this plays a vital role in giving your Vietnamese donuts that delightful fluffiness. This base will set the perfect foundation for the dough to rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Slowly add 3/4 cup of unsweetened almond milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Stir until a cohesive dough begins to form, making sure there are no dry patches left behind. Aim for a slightly sticky texture; this will ensure the sesame seeds adhere well later on. This step usually takes just a few minutes.

Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 to 7 minutes, until it becomes soft and smooth. If the dough feels too sticky, dust with a little more flour; if it’s too dry, add a splash more almond milk. This critical process strengthens the gluten, resulting in airy, fluffy Vietnamese donuts that rise perfectly.

Step 4: Proof the Dough
Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Put it in a warm, draft-free location and let it rise until doubled in size, which should take around 1.5 hours. During this time, the yeast will work its magic, creating a delightful softness in the dough—a vital step for achieving that signature Bánh Tiêu fluffiness.

Step 5: Shape the Dough
Once your dough has risen, gently deflate it and transfer it to a floured surface. Divide the dough into six equal portions, rolling each into a ball. Press each ball into a disc and coat it generously with white sesame seeds, ensuring even coverage. This not only adds flavor but also creates the characteristic crunchy exterior of these Vietnamese donuts.

Step 6: Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet or pan, pour in enough vegetable oil to deep fry the donuts, about 2 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil’s readiness by dipping a chopstick into it; if bubbles form around the stick, it’s hot enough. Proper oil temperature is essential for achieving a golden-brown finish.

Step 7: Fry the Discs
Carefully lower the sesame-coated discs into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-5 minutes, flipping them every 5-7 seconds, until they are golden brown and puffed. Watch closely; the Bánh Tiêu should balloon up beautifully as they cook, creating that enticing hollow center.

Step 8: Remove and Cool
Once golden brown, use a slotted spoon to remove the donuts from the oil, allowing excess oil to drain off. Place them on paper towels to absorb further oil and cool for about 5 minutes. At this point, the crispy sesame Bánh Tiêu will be ready to fill or enjoy as is. Their warm, fluffy texture will be irresistible!

What to Serve with Crispy Sesame Bánh Tiêu?

These delicious Vietnamese donuts can shine even brighter with the perfect accompaniments, creating a delightful spread that tantalizes your senses.

Sweetened Condensed Milk: Drizzling this iconic staple over the donuts adds a creaminess that beautifully balances their crispy texture.
Matcha Green Tea: The earthy notes of this tea wonderfully complement the sweet and nutty flavors of the donuts, making it a delightful pairing.
Savory Spring Rolls: These fresh delights can contrast the sweetness of the Bánh Tiêu, offering a satisfying textural and flavor variation that excites the palate.
Coconut Ice Cream: Serve a scoop alongside the warm donuts for a creamy, dreamy fusion of flavors that will take your taste buds on a journey.
Mango Salad: A refreshing, tangy mango salad with lime juice provides a vibrant contrast to the rich, crispy donuts, making it a light and zesty addition.
Vietnamese Iced Coffee: The bold, robust flavors of this traditional drink create a perfect match with the light sweetness of your donuts, enhancing the overall experience.
Fresh Fruit Platter: Simple yet effective, a colorful array of seasonal fruits can offer brightness and freshness, balancing out the indulgence of the fried treats.
Chocolate Sauce: For those with a sweet tooth, a drizzle of rich chocolate sauce adds decadence, transforming the Bánh Tiêu into a dessert to remember.
Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea can cleanse the palate between bites, refreshing your senses and allowing you to enjoy each donut more fully.
Pandan Coconut Sticky Rice: This aromatic dish adds delightful flavors and textures, making for an impressive and exotic side that beautifully complements the donuts.

Make Ahead Options

These crispy sesame Bánh Tiêu are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by completing steps one through four (preparing dry ingredients, mixing wet ingredients, kneading, and proofing). Simply cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it to ensure freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy these delightful Vietnamese donuts, let the dough come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then proceed with shaping, coating, and frying. This way, you’ll still achieve that light and airy texture without any compromise on quality, making your busy weeknights just a little bit sweeter.

How to Store and Freeze Vietnamese Donuts

Room Temperature: Store your crispy sesame Bánh Tiêu in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh and ready to enjoy!

Fridge: If you live in a warmer climate, you may want to refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Make sure to use a tightly sealed container to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight bag for up to 3 months. This keeps your Vietnamese donuts safe and tasty!

Reheating: To refresh the texture, reheat in an air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warm and crispy again. Enjoy that delightful crunch!

Vietnamese Donuts: Creative Variations

Feel free to explore these tasty variations and personalize your crispy Vietnamese donuts to delight your taste buds!

Sweet Chocolate Filling:
Add a decadent surprise by piping in warm melted chocolate after frying. This transforms your Bánh Tiêu into an indulgent dessert!
Coconut Cream Dip:
Serve with a creamy coconut dip for a tropical twist. Simply mix coconut cream with a hint of sugar for a luscious side.
Savory Herb Infusion:
Mix chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or green onion into the dough for a fragrant savory version. This adds a savory kick that’s sure to impress!
Spicy Jalapeño:
Incorporate finely chopped jalapeños into the dough for a zesty flavor profile. The heat complements the sweetness and adds excitement to each bite!
Chia Seed Coating:
For a fun texture twist, replace sesame seeds with chia seeds. They give a delightful crunch while adding extra nutrition.
Almond Flavor Boost:
Swap vanilla extract for almond extract to enhance the aroma and flavor, providing a delightful nutty note.
Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
After frying, toss the donuts in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for a sweet, aromatic crust that adds warmth and character.
Maple Glaze:
Drizzle a maple glaze over the warm Bánh Tiêu for a touch of sweetness that elevates these treats. Combining maple syrup with powdered sugar creates a mouthwatering topping.

As you create your delicious Bánh Tiêu, consider pairing them with flavorful options like sweet dipping sauces or a side of fresh fruit! You can also delve into unique dessert recipes to find more delightful ideas.

Expert Tips for Vietnamese Donuts

Sticky Dough: Ensure the dough is slightly sticky to help sesame seeds adhere properly; too dry and they won’t stick well.
Resting Time: Allow the flattened dough to rest for at least 10 minutes before frying; this ensures proper puffing and a light texture in your Vietnamese donuts.
Oil Temperature: Keep a close eye on the oil temperature; too hot may burn the donuts, while too cool will make them greasy. Use a chopstick to test readiness.
Frequent Flipping: Flip the donuts often while frying, every 5-7 seconds; this guarantees even cooking and maximum puffiness.
Batch Cooking: Fry in small batches to prevent overcrowding in the pan; this ensures each donut gets the space it needs to fry beautifully.

Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese Donuts) Recipe FAQs

What kind of flour is best for Vietnamese donuts?
Using all-purpose flour is ideal for achieving the right texture in Bánh Tiêu. However, if you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute it with gluten-free flour. Just keep in mind that the texture might differ slightly, so it may require a bit of trial and error to get it just right!

How should I store leftover Bánh Tiêu?
Store your crispy sesame Bánh Tiêu in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’re in a warmer climate, you may prefer to keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days; just make sure the container is tightly sealed to retain moisture and flavor.

Can I freeze Bánh Tiêu for later enjoyment?
Absolutely! To freeze these delightful Vietnamese donuts, first place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight bag and store for up to 3 months. This method will help maintain their freshness and flavor!

What should I do if my dough isn’t rising properly?
If the dough isn’t rising, it could be due to inactive yeast. Make sure your yeast is fresh—check the expiration date! You can also try proofing the yeast first: combine it with warm water and a pinch of sugar and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it’s frothy. If the yeast is active, proceed with your recipe.

Are Bánh Tiêu suitable for vegans or those with allergies?
Yes, Bánh Tiêu can easily be made vegan by using plant-based ingredients, such as almond milk instead of regular milk. However, always check each ingredient for allergens. If anyone in your household has a nut allergy, consider using oat milk or soy milk as substitutes.

How can I ensure my Vietnamese donuts are crispy?
To achieve that perfect crispy texture, maintain the oil temperature between 350°F (175°C) while frying. Use a chopstick to test the oil—if bubbles form around it, you’re good to go! Additionally, flipping the donuts frequently during frying (every 5-7 seconds) helps to cook them evenly and achieve maximum puffiness.