Buttermilk Donuts

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Cuisine: American

Golden, fluffy buttermilk donuts with a hint of vanilla and a tender crumb, perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, appealing to all donut lovers.

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Ingredients

  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 4 cups flour
  • 4 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda

Instructions

  1. Mix together the eggs, sugar, and vanilla until well combined.
  2. Add the buttermilk and mix again.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
  5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch thickness.
  6. Cut out donut shapes using a cutter or glass.
  7. Deep fry the donuts in hot oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  8. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, sift the flour before measuring. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Make sure the oil is hot enough for frying; test it with a small piece of dough to see if it sizzles. These donuts can be topped with powdered sugar or glaze for extra sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

These buttermilk donuts are delicious on their own, but they also pair beautifully with coffee or a glass of milk. Consider serving them with a side of fresh fruit or a fruit compote for a refreshing contrast. For a special touch, drizzle with a simple glaze or chocolate for added sweetness. Browse more American recipes for complementary breakfast ideas.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to a month. To reheat, place them in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds until warm and soft.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Buttermilk Donuts contains roughly 1064 calories, with 19g protein, 216g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (66% of the Daily Value), protein (37% of the Daily Value), and potassium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2899mg per serving (126% of the Daily Value).

1064 kcal 53% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 18.7g 37% DV
Total Fat 16.4g 21% DV
Carbs 216g 79% DV
Fiber 2.7g 10% DV
Sugar 1.4g 3% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2898.9mg 100% DV
Potassium 1481.5mg 32% DV
Cholesterol 600mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 163mcg 18% DV
Vitamin C 22.7mg 25% DV
Vitamin D 0.3mcg 2% DV
Calcium 855.3mg 66% DV
Iron 5.5mg 31% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains 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 bake these donuts instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake these donuts! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and use a donut pan. Fill each cavity about halfway and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. They’ll be less greasy and still delicious.

What can I use if I don't have a donut cutter?

If you don’t have a donut cutter, you can use two round cutters of different sizes to create the donut shape. A glass can work for the outer circle, and a smaller bottle cap or similar item can create the hole in the center.

How can I make these donuts more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices like nutmeg or cinnamon to the dry ingredients. You can also incorporate citrus zest or chocolate chips into the dough for a unique twist. Experimenting with different glazes or toppings will also add variety.

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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