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Old-Fashioned Cake Donuts Recipe

4.8 from 130 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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