Little Sputnicks (Drop Donuts)

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Little Sputnicks are light, sweet drop donuts with warm cinnamon and nutmeg flavors, perfect for a quick snack or dessert enjoyed by all ages.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 beaten egg
  • 1 1/2 cups flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1/2 cup milk

Instructions

  1. Mix sugar, beaten egg, flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and milk together until well blended.
  2. Drop by teaspoons into hot fat and fry until they are brown on one side.
  3. Turn them over when they are brown on one side and fry until golden brown on both sides.
  4. Remove from fat and drain on absorbent paper.
  5. While warm, shake in a small brown bag containing powdered sugar or granulated sugar.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, sift the flour before measuring and consider using whole wheat flour for a healthier twist. If you don't have nutmeg, you can substitute with a little more cinnamon or omit it entirely. Ensure your frying oil is at the right temperature to prevent greasy donuts; a thermometer can help. Consider serving these treats with Toffee Ice Cream Dessert for a delightful contrast.

Serving Suggestions

These Little Sputnicks are best enjoyed warm, ideally dusted with powdered sugar. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. For a fun twist, serve with a side of fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream, such as vanilla or even a scoop of Billy'S Cheesecake for added indulgence.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the donuts in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes until warm and slightly crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make them chewy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Little Sputnicks (Drop Donuts) contains roughly 415 calories, with 3g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1844mg per serving (80% of the Daily Value).

415 kcal 21% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.8g 6% DV
Total Fat 2.4g 3% DV
Carbs 43.6g 16% DV
Fiber 1.2g 4% DV
Sugar 12.1g 24% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1843.8mg 80% DV
Potassium 362.2mg 8% DV
Cholesterol 77.5mg 26% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 21.3mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 9.4mg 10% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 91.7mg 7% DV
Iron 1mg 5% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Milk 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 a different type of milk?

Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version. Just make sure to use unsweetened varieties to keep the flavor balanced.

How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?

The oil should be around 350°F to 375°F. You can test it by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, it's ready. If it browns too quickly, the oil is too hot.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It's best to use the batter fresh for the best texture. If you must prepare it in advance, keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 hour, but avoid letting it sit too long as it may lose its leavening ability.

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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