There’s something undeniably special about old-fashioned cake donuts. Their slightly crisp exterior, tender crumb, and nostalgic flavor make them a beloved treat for breakfast, dessert, or anytime you’re craving something sweet and satisfying. Unlike their yeast-raised counterparts, these cake donuts are quick to make and require no rising time, making them perfect for a weekend baking project or a last-minute treat.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the recipe for classic old-fashioned cake donuts, share tips for achieving the perfect texture, and explore fun ways to customize them. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, these donuts are easy to whip up anytime.
- Quick and Easy: No yeast means no waiting for dough to rise—just mix, fry, and enjoy!
- Versatile: Customize with glazes, toppings, or spices to suit your taste.
- Perfect Texture: Crispy on the outside, soft and cakey on the inside—just like the donuts from your favorite bakery.
Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Cake Donuts
For the Donuts:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, but highly recommended for that classic flavor)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup buttermilk (or substitute with regular milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil or shortening (for frying)
For the Glaze (Optional):
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup milk or cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, beaten eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—the dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
Step 2: Shape the Donuts
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a circle about ½-inch thick.
- Use a donut cutter (or a round cookie cutter and a smaller cutter for the center hole) to cut out donut shapes. Re-roll the scraps to cut out more donuts.
- Place the cut donuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet while you heat the oil.
Step 3: Fry the Donuts
- In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil or shortening to 350°F (175°C). Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature.
- Carefully add 2-3 donuts to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried donuts to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain. Repeat with the remaining donuts.
Step 4: Glaze or Coat (Optional)
- For a simple glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Dip the warm donuts into the glaze, letting the excess drip off, and place them back on the wire rack to set.
- Alternatively, you can roll the donuts in cinnamon sugar, powdered sugar, or leave them plain.
Tips for Perfect Old-Fashioned Cake Donuts
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough donuts. Mix until just combined for a tender crumb.
- Keep the Oil Temperature Consistent: Maintaining the oil at 350°F ensures even cooking and prevents greasy donuts.
- Use Buttermilk: Buttermilk adds a slight tang and helps create a tender texture. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to ¾ cup of regular milk.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add a pinch of cinnamon, cardamom, or citrus zest to the dough for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Glazed: Dip the donuts in a simple vanilla glaze for a sweet, shiny finish.
- Cinnamon Sugar: Roll the warm donuts in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for a cozy, spiced treat.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the donuts for a decadent touch.
- Serve with Coffee: These donuts pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a classic breakfast or snack.
Why This Recipe is AdSense-Friendly
This recipe is a great fit for AdSense optimization because:
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Final Thoughts
Old-fashioned cake donuts are a timeless treat that brings joy to any occasion. With their simple ingredients, quick preparation, and endless customization options, they’re a must-try for any home baker. Whether you’re making them for a special breakfast, a holiday treat, or just because, these donuts are sure to impress.
So, grab your ingredients, heat up that oil, and get ready to enjoy the irresistible flavor of homemade cake donuts. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Happy frying!
