"Grandma'S Jelly Donuts"("Depression Days")
Grandma's Jelly Donuts are nostalgic treats featuring soft bread slices filled with sweet jam, lightly fried to golden perfection, and dusted with confectioners sugar. Perfect for a comforting snack or dessert, they combine crispy edges with gooey jam centers, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine eggs, milk, vanilla, sugar, and salt. Mix until well blended.
- In a small bowl, mix flour and baking powder.
- Stir the flour mixture into the egg mixture until smooth; set aside.
- Stack 2 slices of bread sandwich style.
- Remove the crust from each bread slice with a sharp knife.
- Spread a thin layer of jam or jelly on each bread slice.
- Cut each sandwich into quarters.
- Dip each bread quarter into the batter.
- Fry in salad oil or shortening until browned.
- Remove from oil and sprinkle with confectioners sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the batter. If you're out of jam or jelly, any fruit spread or even Nutella can work as a delicious alternative. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture; test with a small piece of bread first. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover bread, similar to how you might use it in Cinnamon Rolls In Milk.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful jelly donuts warm, dusted with confectioners sugar, for a comforting treat. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or a snack. For a special touch, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert, making them a perfect companion to any meal, reminiscent of American recipes from simpler times.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover jelly donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness without making them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Grandma'S Jelly Donuts"("Depression Days") contains roughly 605 calories, with 13g protein, 131g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (31% of the Daily Value) and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 574mg per serving (25% 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 whole wheat bread instead of white bread?
Yes, whole wheat bread can be used as a healthier alternative. It will give the donuts a denser texture and a nuttier flavor, which complements the sweetness of the jam. Just ensure the bread is fresh for the best results.
What type of jam or jelly works best for this recipe?
Any flavor of jam or jelly can be used, but fruit preserves like raspberry, strawberry, or apricot are popular choices. Each will impart a unique taste and sweetness, allowing for a personalized touch to your donuts.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
While it's best to use the batter fresh for optimal texture, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator, but give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken slightly.
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).