Old Fashioned Donuts
There’s something undeniably nostalgic about biting into a warm, freshly made Old Fashioned Donut. These classic treats bring back memories of cozy mornings, where the sweet aroma of donuts fills the air and the simple pleasures in life are celebrated. With their crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior, Old Fashioned Donuts are a delightful indulgence that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. In this article, we’ll guide you through a straightforward recipe that will have you whipping up a batch of these delectable donuts in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Old Fashioned Donuts are a timeless favorite, and this recipe is designed to give you that perfect balance of flavors and textures. You’ll love how simple it is to make them from scratch, and the ingredients are easy to find. The addition of nutmeg and cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the flavor, while the powdered sugar glaze brings a touch of sweetness that makes these donuts irresistible. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, they are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Your Shopping Guide
To make these delightful Old Fashioned Donuts, here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 eggs – Provides structure and richness.
- 2 cups sugar – Sweetens the dough.
- 1 cup shortening (soft) – Adds moisture and tenderness.
- 1 cup buttermilk – Contributes a tangy flavor and helps keep the donuts moist.
- 7 cups all-purpose flour – The base for our donuts.
- 4 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the donuts rise.
- 2 teaspoons baking soda – Works with the buttermilk for leavening.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg – Adds warmth and spice.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon – Complements the nutmeg for a classic flavor.
- Vegetable oil – For frying the donuts.
- 4 tablespoons butter (melted) – For the glaze.
- 3 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens the glaze.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a wonderful aroma.
- 4-6 tablespoons half and half – To achieve the desired glaze consistency.
Must-Have Equipment
Before you get started, make sure you have these kitchen essentials on hand:
- Mixing bowls – For combining ingredients.
- Whisk – To mix the batter smoothly.
- Donut cutter – For shaping the donuts perfectly.
- Deep fryer or heavy pot – For frying the donuts evenly.
- Cooling rack – To let the donuts cool and prevent sogginess.
- Pastry brush – For glazing the donuts.
Old Fashioned Donuts — Do This Next
Now that you have everything you need, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making your own Old Fashioned Donuts.
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients and measuring them out. This will make the mixing process much smoother.
Step 2: Make the Donut Batter
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the 4 eggs and 2 cups of sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the softened shortening and continue to mix until fully incorporated. Next, pour in the 1 cup of buttermilk and blend until smooth.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the 7 cups of all-purpose flour, 4 teaspoons of baking powder, 2 teaspoons of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the donuts tough.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Cover the batter with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible. Chilling the dough helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to handle.
Step 5: Shape the Donuts
Once the dough is chilled, turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/2 inch thick. Use a donut cutter to cut out shapes, making sure to also cut out the holes from the center.
Step 6: Heat the Oil
In a deep fryer or heavy pot, heat vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C). Make sure there’s enough oil to fully submerge the donuts.
Step 7: Fry the Donuts
Carefully place a few donuts into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a cooling rack lined with paper towels.
Step 8: Prepare the Glaze
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, 3 cups of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 4-6 tablespoons of half and half. Whisk until you achieve a smooth, pourable glaze.
Step 9: Glaze the Donuts
While the donuts are still warm, dip the tops into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. Place them back on the cooling rack to set.
Season-by-Season Upgrades
These Old Fashioned Donuts can be easily adapted for different seasons or occasions:
- Fall: Add pumpkin spice to the batter for a seasonal twist.
- Winter: Incorporate peppermint extract into the glaze for a festive flavor.
- Spring: Use citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, to brighten the flavor.
- Summer: Top with fresh berries or a berry glaze for a refreshing touch.
Chef’s Rationale
The beauty of Old Fashioned Donuts lies in their simplicity and classic flavors. The combination of nutmeg and cinnamon creates a warm, comforting profile that pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Additionally, the use of buttermilk not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to the moist texture that makes these donuts so delightful. By frying them instead of baking, you achieve that crispy exterior that makes each bite a little piece of heaven.
Storage Pro Tips
To keep your Old Fashioned Donuts fresh and delicious, consider the following storage tips:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the unglazed donuts. Thaw and glaze when ready to serve.
- Keep glazed donuts in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
- Reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving to restore their delightful texture.
Old Fashioned Donuts Q&A
Can I use different types of flour?
While all-purpose flour is recommended for the best results, you can experiment with cake flour for a lighter texture, but the donuts may not have the same structure.
What can I substitute for shortening?
If you prefer not to use shortening, you can substitute an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil for a different flavor profile.
Can I bake these donuts instead of frying them?
Yes! If you want a healthier option, you can bake the donuts at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes. They won’t have the same crispy texture, but they will still be delicious.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
A good test is to drop a small piece of dough into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready. You can also use a thermometer to check the temperature.
More from the Kitchen
If you love baking, check out these delicious recipes:
In Closing
Old Fashioned Donuts are not just a treat; they are an experience that brings joy to every bite. With their delightful flavor and comforting texture, these donuts are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them with family at breakfast or sharing them with friends over coffee, you’ll find that they create moments worth savoring. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in these homemade delights that are sure to impress. Your kitchen will soon be filled with the sweet aroma of Old Fashioned Donuts, and your taste buds will thank you for it!
Old Fashioned Donuts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gather all your ingredients and measure them out to make the mixing process smoother.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the softened shortening and mix until incorporated. Pour in the buttermilk and blend until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Cover the batter with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible.
- Turn the chilled dough onto a floured surface and roll it out to about 1/2 inch thick. Use a donut cutter to cut out shapes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 375°F (190°C).
- Carefully place a few donuts into the hot oil and fry for about 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to a cooling rack lined with paper towels.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and half and half. Whisk until smooth.
- While the donuts are still warm, dip the tops into the glaze and allow excess to drip off before placing them back on the cooling rack.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Freeze unglazed donuts for longer storage and glaze when ready to serve.
- Keep glazed donuts refrigerated for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
