Basic Doughnuts

Prep: 20 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

Soft, fluffy doughnuts with a hint of cinnamon and sweetness, perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat. These homemade doughnuts are fried to golden perfection and can be dusted with confectioners sugar for added delight, making them a favorite for family gatherings or weekend indulgence.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2.5 tablespoons butter
  • 1.5 teaspoons salt
  • 3 beaten eggs
  • 4 teaspoons baking powder
  • 0.25 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 3.5 cups sifted flour
  • confectioners sugar
  • oil for deep frying

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine sugar and butter.
  2. Add beaten eggs and blend well.
  3. Add milk and mix thoroughly.
  4. In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
  5. Gradually add the liquid mixture to the flour mixture, beating vigorously until smooth.
  6. Knead the dough on a floured board.
  7. Roll out the dough and cut into doughnut shapes.
  8. Heat oil for deep frying.
  9. Fry the doughnuts until golden brown.
  10. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  11. Dust with confectioners sugar before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the milk with buttermilk. If you don’t have eggs, a flaxseed meal can work as a binder. Ensure your oil is at the right temperature to avoid greasy doughnuts; use a thermometer for precision. For added flavor, experiment with different spices like nutmeg or vanilla extract.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these doughnuts warm, dusted with confectioners sugar, alongside a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. They also pair beautifully with a fruit compote or a simple glaze. For a fun twist, try filling them with jam or cream, or even serve with a side of Fried Potatoes for a hearty breakfast.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to a month. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes to restore their texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Basic Doughnuts contains roughly 917 calories, with 9g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (49% of the Daily Value), iron (41% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 935mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).

917 kcal 46% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 9.4g 19% DV
Total Fat 52.3g 67% DV
Carbs 104.4g 38% DV
Fiber 2.3g 8% DV
Sugar 58.1g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 935.5mg 41% DV
Potassium 387.3mg 8% DV
Cholesterol 12.5mg 4% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 198mcg 22% DV
Vitamin C 27.2mg 30% DV
Vitamin D 1.8mcg 9% DV
Calcium 641.2mg 49% DV
Iron 7.4mg 41% DV
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture might be denser. It's best to use a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat flour for the best results, maintaining the lightness of the doughnuts while adding some nutritional benefits.

How do I know when the doughnuts are done frying?

The doughnuts are done when they are golden brown and float to the surface of the oil. You can test a small piece of dough to check; it should cook quickly and turn golden. Be cautious of overcooking, as they can become dry.

What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, while kneading. Be careful not to add too much, as this can make the doughnuts tough. A well-floured surface helps manage stickiness during rolling.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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