Old fashioned donuts, with their distinct cracked surface and crispy edges, offer a delightful contrast to the often softer, yeast-raised varieties. These classic treats have a rich history and a satisfyingly dense texture that makes them a favorite for many. If you’ve ever wondered how these iconic donuts are made, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the process of creating old fashioned donuts, from mixing the dough to achieving that perfect glaze.
What You’ll Need to Make Old Fashioned Donuts
Before you start, gather all your ingredients and equipment. Having everything within reach will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Ingredients for the Donuts:
- Flour: 3 1/2 cups, plus more for dusting
- Sugar: 1 cup granulated sugar
- Baking Powder: Quantity not specified, but essential for leavening
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Nutmeg: 1/2 tsp
- Sour Cream or Buttermilk: 1 cup (using sour milk with vinegar as a substitute works too)
- Eggs: 2 large
- Butter: Quantity not specified, softened
- Vegetable Oil: 4 cups for frying
- Vanilla Extract: 2 tsp
- Milk: 1/4 cup
- Heavy Cream: 2 tbsp
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 tsp
- Baking Soda: 1/8 tsp
- Cinnamon: 1/2 tsp
Ingredients for the Glaze (optional):
- Powdered Sugar: 2 cups
- Butter: 1/3 cup
- Vanilla Extract: 1 1/2 tsp
- Hot Water: 4 tbsp, or as needed
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl or stand mixer
- Medium mixing bowl
- Sifter
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Deep heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer
- Thermometer
- Rolling pin
- 3-inch round cookie cutter
- 1 1/4-inch round cutter or piping tip for the center hole
- Slotted spoon or strainer
- Wire rack
- Baking sheet
- Paper towels or paper bag
Step-by-Step Instructions for Old Fashioned Donuts
Preparing the Dough
- Sift Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg. This ensures that there are no lumps and that the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the softened butter and sugar. Beat together on medium speed until well combined, about 1 minute.
- Add Egg Yolks: Add the egg yolks to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the bowl to ensure everything is well incorporated.
- Incorporate Sour Cream: Add the sour cream to the mixer and beat until well combined. Sour cream adds moisture and a subtle tang that enhances the flavor of the donuts.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Beat on low speed until just combined, scraping down the bowl once to make sure everything is incorporated. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can result in tough donuts.
- Chill the Dough: Scrape the dough down into the bowl, cover it, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 1 day. Chilling the dough is crucial because it allows the gluten to relax and makes the dough easier to handle.
Rolling and Cutting the Donuts
- Prepare Your Workspace: After the dough has chilled, invert it onto a well-floured surface. Dust the top of the dough generously with flour to prevent sticking.
- Roll the Dough: Use a rolling pin to roll the dough to a 1/2-inch thickness. Ensure the dough is evenly thick for uniform cooking.
- Cut the Donuts: Dip a 3-inch round cookie or biscuit cutter in flour and cut circles out of the dough. Then, use a 1 1/4-inch round cutter or the large end of a piping tip to cut holes in the center of each circle.
- Prepare for Frying: Place the donuts and holes on a parchment-lined tray. This makes it easy to transfer them to the hot oil without distorting their shape.
Frying the Donuts
- Heat the Oil: Fill a large, heavy-bottomed pot with 2 inches of oil. Place over medium heat until a deep-fry thermometer registers 325°F to 340°F. Maintaining the correct oil temperature is essential for achieving perfectly cooked donuts.
- Fry the Donuts: Carefully place 2 to 3 donuts in the hot oil at a time. Avoid overcrowding the pot, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in greasy donuts.
- Cook Each Side: Fry the donuts for 2 minutes on one side, then flip and fry for another 2 minutes on the other side. Flip one more time and fry for 30 to 60 seconds, or until golden brown.
- Drain the Donuts: Remove the donuts with a slotted spoon or strainer and let them drain on a paper towel-lined baking sheet. This helps to remove excess oil.
- Adjust Heat as Necessary: Keep monitoring the oil temperature and adjust the heat as needed to maintain it between 325°F and 340°F.
Glazing the Donuts
- Prepare the Glaze: While the donuts are still warm, sift the confectioners’ sugar into a medium bowl. Whisk in the water, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. The glaze should be thick but pourable.
- Dip the Donuts: Dip the craggy top of each donut into the glaze. Allow the excess glaze to drip off before placing the donut on a wire cooling rack, glaze side up.
- Let the Glaze Set: Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving. This allows the glaze to harden slightly, creating a beautiful finish.
Tips for Perfect Old Fashioned Donuts
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients make a big difference in the final product.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough donuts.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Consistent oil temperature ensures even cooking and prevents greasy donuts.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is crucial for easy handling and a tender crumb.
- Glaze While Warm: Glazing the donuts while they are still warm allows the glaze to adhere better.
Variations
- Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: Instead of glaze, toss the warm donuts in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar.
- Maple Glaze: Substitute maple extract for vanilla in the glaze for a delicious maple flavor.
- Chocolate Glaze: Add cocoa powder to the glaze for a rich chocolatey twist.
- Spice it Up: Add pumpkin spice to the sugar in your brown paper bag for pumpkin-spice donuts.
How to Store Old Fashioned Donuts
Leftover donuts can be stored, covered, at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the donuts. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Conclusion
Making old fashioned donuts at home is a rewarding experience. These donuts, with their unique texture and delightful glaze, are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat any time of day. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to create bakery-quality old fashioned donuts in your own kitchen.