Get ready to wow your senses with American Sushi Donuts—a spectacular fusion of vibrant Japanese flavors and playful American creativity. Imagine creamy avocado and silky, sushi-grade salmon draped over perfectly seasoned sticky rice, all shaped into bite-sized, Instagram-worthy donut rings. Every bite balances tender fish, tangy sushi rice, and crunchy, toasty sesame seeds, capped off with a drizzle of spicy mayo. Whether you’re looking to impress at a party or just jazz up your next lunch, American Sushi Donuts capture the festive spirit of modern sushi like nothing else.

American Sushi Donuts Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple without sacrificing joy or visual flair! Each ingredient has a starring role—contributing texture, flavor, or that little pop of color that makes American Sushi Donuts so much fun. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few pro tips for absolute donut success:

Sushi Rice: The foundation for these donuts! Choose short-grain sushi rice for the stickiest, most shapeable base.
Mayonnaise: Mixed into the rice, a touch of mayo helps bind everything and adds just the right creaminess.
Rice Vinegar: Brings bright acidity to balance out the rich toppings, mimicking classic sushi flavors.
Sugar: A hint of sweetness rounds out the rice seasoning—don’t skip it!
Salt: Enhances the natural flavors in both the rice and toppings.
Sushi-Grade Salmon: Choose the freshest fish you can find for ultimate flavor and food safety; ask your fishmonger for advice.
Avocado: Provides creamy, buttery texture and gorgeous color.
Black Sesame Seeds: Add a nutty crunch and striking contrast on top.
White Sesame Seeds: For even more crunch and a beautiful two-tone pattern.
Nori Sheets: Cut into squares, these are the perfect edible “wrappers” for picking up each donut.
Spicy Mayo: Drizzle on top; blend mayo and sriracha or grab a pre-made bottle for convenience.
Optional Toppings: Try furikake, crispy onions, or microgreens for even more flavor and visual drama.

How to Make American Sushi Donuts

Step 1: Season and Sticky-Up Your Rice

Start by mixing your freshly cooked, slightly warm sushi rice with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Stir in mayonnaise while the rice is still warm so it gets sticky and easy to mold. The mayo also adds an extra layer of richness. Let everything cool to room temperature—this helps the donuts hold their shape.

Step 2: Mold Your Donuts

Lightly oil a donut mold (silicone works wonders for easy release), then pack each cavity with your seasoned rice. Don’t be shy—press the rice firmly so each donut is sturdy! Pop the mold into the fridge for 10–15 minutes; this chill time helps the rice firm up for clean removal.

Step 3: Unmold and Arrange

Carefully unmold the rice donuts and transfer them onto a parchment-lined tray or your serving platter. If you greased the mold properly and packed the rice tightly, they’ll pop out like a dream. Give yourself a high-five—you’ve just made American Sushi Donuts!

Step 4: Decorate Your Masterpieces

Now comes the fun: top each rice donut with slices of salmon and avocado. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for that classic sushi look, then add a generous zigzag of spicy mayo. Garnish with any extra toppings your heart desires—crispy onions, a shower of furikake, or tiny microgreens make these look like edible jewels.

Step 5: Serve Over Nori or Plate Directly

Arrange your American Sushi Donuts over nori squares for a clever, mess-free way to pick them up and eat. Or, for a party platter, simply display them with a pair of chopsticks on the side. However you serve them, watch how fast they disappear!

How to Serve American Sushi Donuts

Garnishes

Garnishing is where you get to show off your personal style! The classic American Sushi Donuts combo includes black and white sesame seeds, but consider tossing on some bright microgreens, crunchy fried onions, or vibrant furikake. A little drizzle of wasabi mayo or pickled ginger on the side can take things up another notch—so be creative and make them your own.

Side Dishes

While these donuts are a standout all on their own, they truly shine as part of a fresh, fun spread. Pair them with a crisp seaweed salad, some edamame steamed and salted, or even a bowl of miso soup. That combination keeps the meal light, bright, and beautifully balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Bring on the wow factor! For a party, display American Sushi Donuts on a marble slab lined with edible flowers or colorful pickled veggies. If it’s lunchbox duty, nestle them in a bento box with sliced fruit and snap peas. Mini sushi donuts (use a mini donut mold!) are also adorable for cocktail parties—just remember to set out plenty, as they vanish fast!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra American Sushi Donuts, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The flavors will still be bold and fresh, but the rice will firm up as it chills—so they’re definitely at their best right after assembly. If serving later, bring them out of the fridge about 15 minutes early to take the chill off.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for American Sushi Donuts, especially because the texture of the rice and avocado can suffer once thawed. The fresh toppings are what make these so special! Instead, consider just prepping your ingredients ahead and assembling them right before eating.

Reheating

No need for reheating here—American Sushi Donuts are made to be enjoyed cold or at cool room temperature. If stored in the fridge, simply let them rest slightly before serving to bring out the best flavors and textures. Avoid the microwave, which can dry out or over-soften the rice.

FAQs

Can I use a different fish instead of salmon?

Absolutely! American Sushi Donuts are super versatile. Try thinly sliced tuna, cooked shrimp, or even cooked crab if you prefer. Just be sure whatever you use is ultra-fresh and safe for raw consumption, unless it’s already cooked.

What if I don’t have a donut mold?

No worries—you can shape the rice into rounds using your hands (wet them slightly to prevent sticking) or use a muffin tin for a similar effect. The donut shape is fun, but not required to enjoy all the flavors!

Are American Sushi Donuts gluten free?

Yes, as long as you stick to gluten-free mayo and toppings, these American Sushi Donuts are naturally gluten free. Always double-check any savory sauces or furikake blends, as some may contain wheat.

Can I make these ahead of time for a party?

You can prep all the components—season and chill the rice, slice the fish and avocado, and have garnishes ready. Assemble just before serving so everything stays perfectly fresh and visually stunning.

How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Slice the avocado just before topping your American Sushi Donuts, or brush slices with a little lemon juice to delay browning. The slight tang from the lemon compliments the sushi flavors, too.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a showstopping way to celebrate sushi night, there’s nothing more fun or festive than American Sushi Donuts. Each bite is a colorful burst of flavor and creativity—perfect for sharing with friends or treating yourself to something extraordinary. Grab your donut mold, get inspired, and let these playful creations brighten your table!

American Sushi Donuts Recipe