Grandma Leary'S Doughnuts
Golden, fluffy homemade doughnuts with warm spices and a light, tender crumb, perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, cloves, and sugar.
- Add the melted shortening and eggs, then beat until smooth, about 30 seconds.
- Stir in the milk until the dough is well combined.
- Place the dough in the refrigerator and chill for some time.
- Roll out the dough in small portions on a lightly floured board to 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cut out doughnuts and let them stand on the board for 20 minutes before frying.
- Heat oil to 370°F (approximately 188°C).
- Fry a few doughnuts at a time for 3 to 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter doughnut, avoid overmixing after adding the milk; mix just until combined. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with unsalted butter. For added flavor, consider incorporating a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Ensure the oil temperature is consistent to avoid greasy doughnuts; use a thermometer for accuracy.
Serving Suggestions
Dust the doughnuts with powdered sugar or dip them in a glaze for extra sweetness. They pair beautifully with coffee or a hot cup of tea, making them a perfect breakfast or afternoon snack. Serve alongside Mama's English Pea Salad for a delightful meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Leary'S Doughnuts contains roughly 388 calories, with 1g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 37g fat.
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 make the doughnut dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. After mixing, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out and frying.
What type of oil is best for frying doughnuts?
Vegetable oil or canola oil are excellent choices due to their high smoke points. Avoid using olive oil as it can impart an unwanted flavor and has a lower smoke point.
How can I tell when the doughnuts are done frying?
Doughnuts are done when they turn a golden brown color and float to the surface of the oil. A good rule of thumb is to fry them for 3 to 5 minutes, but always keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
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).