Old-Fashioned Cake Donuts Recipe
Introduction
Old-Fashioned Cake Donuts are a nostalgic treat that combines a crisp exterior with a tender, cake-like interior. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, these donuts can be fried to golden perfection or baked for a lighter option.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup milk
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and sugar. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the milk until well combined, then gradually mix into the dry ingredients to form a batter.
- Step 2: Heat oil to 350°F if frying, or preheat your oven to 375°F if baking. For frying, drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. For baking, spoon the batter into a donut pan and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the batter.
- Use buttermilk instead of regular milk for a tangier taste and softer texture.
- If frying, keep the oil temperature steady to ensure even cooking and prevent soggy donuts.
Storage
Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 1 month. Reheat by warming in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or briefly in a toaster oven to restore freshness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour for these donuts?
All-purpose flour works best for the right texture, but you can substitute with whole wheat flour for a denser, nuttier donut. Adjust the liquid slightly if needed.
What is the difference between frying and baking these donuts?
Frying gives the donuts a crispy exterior and richer flavor from the oil, while baking produces a lighter, less oily donut that’s easier to prepare and lower in fat.
PrintOld-Fashioned Cake Donuts Recipe
Old-Fashioned Cake Donuts are a classic treat featuring a tender, slightly dense crumb with a sweet, buttery flavor. These donuts can be either fried to a golden crisp or baked for a lighter option, making them perfect for breakfast or a delightful snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 donuts 1x
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder (added for leavening, estimated)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (added for flavor balance, estimated)
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or vegetable oil (added for moisture and richness, estimated)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, added for flavor, estimated)
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry, stirring just until a soft dough forms without overmixing.
- Form the Donuts: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters of different sizes to cut out donut shapes and holes. Place the cut donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cook the Donuts: For frying: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy skillet to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the donuts a few at a time for about 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. For baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the donuts on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly browned and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the donuts to cool slightly on a wire rack. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar, glaze, or frost as desired before serving.
Notes
- Frying results in a crispy exterior with a moist interior, while baking offers a lighter, less oily alternative.
- Adding baking powder and salt enhances the texture and flavor, making the donuts fluffy and balanced.
- Use fresh oil for frying to avoid a greasy taste.
- These cake donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Feel free to customize with cinnamon, nutmeg, or other spices for additional flavor.
Keywords: cake donuts, old-fashioned donuts, fried donuts, baked donuts, breakfast donuts, homemade donuts
