Buttermilk Doughnuts

Prep: 20 min Cook: 6 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: American

Buttermilk doughnuts offer a tender, fluffy treat with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, perfect for breakfast or dessert. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, they appeal to doughnut lovers of all ages and pair wonderfully with coffee or a sweet glaze. A classic comfort food made easy at home.

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Ingredients

  • 3 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons shortening
  • 2 eggs
  • 3/4 cup buttermilk

Instructions

  1. Heat 3 to 4 inches of oil to 375°F in a deep fryer.
  2. Measure 1 1/2 cups of flour and combine with the remaining ingredients in a large bowl. Blend for 30 seconds on low speed, scraping the bowl occasionally.
  3. Stir in the remaining flour. Turn the dough onto a well-floured surface and lightly coat with flour.
  4. Gently roll the dough to 3/8-inch thickness.
  5. Cut the dough with a floured doughnut cutter.
  6. Slide the doughnuts into the hot oil using a wide spatula. Turn them as they rise to the surface.
  7. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes or until golden brown.
  8. Carefully remove from the oil and drain.
  9. Serve plain, sugared, or frosted.

Tips & Substitutions

For fluffier doughnuts, ensure your baking powder is fresh and the buttermilk is at room temperature. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter or vegetable oil. When rolling the dough, be careful not to over-flour, as this can toughen the dough. For a twist, try adding chocolate chips like in Mini Morsel Cookies.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delicious buttermilk doughnuts plain, or dust them with powdered sugar for a classic touch. They pair wonderfully with coffee or a glass of milk. For a festive variation, try frosting them with Orange Sour Cream Cookie Frosting or serving alongside a refreshing Strawberry Cheese Salad for a delightful contrast.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Buttermilk Doughnuts contains roughly 44 calories, with 2g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.

44 kcal 2% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.6g 3% DV
Total Fat 1.5g 2% DV
Carbs 6.2g 2% DV
Fiber 0.2g 1% DV
Sugar 1.7g 3% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 437.5mg 19% DV
Potassium 57.9mg 1% DV
Cholesterol 6.9mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 16.5mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 0.2mg
Vitamin D 0.4mcg 2% DV
Calcium 86.5mg 7% DV
Iron 0.3mg 2% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal
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 use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture may be denser. For best results, use a mix of both flours or add a little extra buttermilk to maintain moisture.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, while mixing until it reaches the right consistency. Be careful not to add too much flour, as this can lead to tough doughnuts.

How can I make these doughnuts healthier?

To make healthier doughnuts, consider reducing the sugar by 1/4 cup or substituting some of the flour with almond or coconut flour. You can also bake them instead of frying for a lighter option, although the texture will differ.

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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