Grandma'S Donuts

Prep: 30 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 36 Cuisine: American

Grandma's Donuts are light, fluffy treats with a hint of nutmeg, perfect for breakfast or special occasions, appealing to those who love classic homemade baked goods.

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Ingredients

  • 1 pkg. yeast
  • 1 cup milk, scalded and cooled
  • 1/2 cup shortening
  • 2/3 cup sugar
  • lukewarm water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (for yeast activation)
  • 2 eggs, well beaten
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Instructions

  1. Dissolve yeast in lukewarm water and add a teaspoon of sugar; let sit until frothy.
  2. Combine scalded and cooled milk with shortening and sugar; let cool.
  3. Mix yeast mixture, milk mixture, eggs, salt, and nutmeg.
  4. Gradually add flour to form a soft dough.
  5. Let the dough rise until doubled in size.
  6. Punch down the dough and roll out on a floured surface.
  7. Cut out donuts with a cutter.
  8. Let the donuts rise again before frying.
  9. Fry in deep fat at 350°F until golden brown.
  10. Drain on paper towels and serve.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, ensure your yeast is fresh and properly activated before mixing. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with unsalted butter or margarine. For a twist, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract to the dough. Keep an eye on the oil temperature while frying to prevent burning; using a candy thermometer can help.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delightful donuts warm, dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with a simple glaze. They pair beautifully with coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy breakfast or snack. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside Kriss Kringle Cookies during the holiday season.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftover donuts, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the donuts individually and then transfer them to a freezer bag, where they can last for up to a month. To reheat, place them in a warm oven for a few minutes until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Grandma'S Donuts contains roughly 106 calories, with 1g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 8g fat.

106 kcal 5% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.3g 3% DV
Total Fat 8.2g 11% DV
Carbs 7.4g 3% DV
Fiber 1.1g 4% DV
Sugar 0.2g

Electrolytes

Sodium 121.3mg 5% DV
Potassium 108.2mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 11.5mg 4% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 3.2mcg
Vitamin C 2.2mg 2% DV
Calcium 20.1mg 2% DV
Iron 0.4mg 2% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Egg

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 dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. After the first rise, refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours. When ready to fry, let it come to room temperature and rise again before rolling out and cutting the donuts.

What kind of oil is best for frying donuts?

It's best to use oils with a high smoke point for frying donuts, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils will help achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the interior soft and fluffy.

How do I know when the donuts are done frying?

Donuts are done frying when they turn a beautiful golden brown color, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side at 350°F. You can also test by inserting a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the donuts are ready.

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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