Drop Doughnut Balls
Drop Doughnut Balls offer a delightful treat with warm, spiced flavors, crispy exterior, and soft interior — perfect for a quick snack or dessert for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, milk, and egg in a bowl; add melted Crisco.
- Add sifted flour, salt, baking powder, nutmeg, and cinnamon to the liquid mixture.
- Combine the two mixtures lightly until just mixed.
- Drop teaspoons of batter into deep hot Crisco, heated to 365°F, until they turn golden brown (about 4 minutes).
- Fry doughnut balls until cooked through and golden brown in the center.
- Drain on absorbent paper and roll in powdered sugar if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your Crisco is hot enough (365°F) before dropping in the batter; this prevents the doughnuts from absorbing too much oil. You can substitute the milk with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version. If you want extra flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the batter. For a twist, try using pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon and nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions
These drop doughnut balls are delightful on their own, but you can serve them with a side of warm chocolate sauce or a fruit compote for dipping. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a fun twist, consider serving alongside Baked Apple Squares for a sweet treat platter that combines textures and flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover doughnut balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy. If desired, roll them in powdered sugar again after reheating for added sweetness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Drop Doughnut Balls contains roughly 600 calories, with 8g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (72% of the Daily Value), calcium (37% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 796mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
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 a different type of oil for frying?
Yes, you can use vegetable oil or canola oil in place of Crisco for frying. Just ensure the oil reaches the proper temperature of 365°F for the best results. Each type of oil may impart a slightly different flavor, so choose one that you prefer.
What can I do if my batter is too thick?
If your batter seems too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of milk to loosen it up. Mix gently until combined. Keep in mind that a thicker batter will yield denser doughnut balls, while a slightly thinner batter will create lighter ones. Adjust based on your preference.
How can I make these doughnut balls more festive?
To make your doughnut balls more festive, consider adding colorful sprinkles on top after rolling them in powdered sugar. You can also enhance the flavors with various spices or flavored extracts, such as almond or orange, to suit the occasion. Serve them alongside other treats for a festive dessert platter.
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).