Longjohns
Longjohns are classic fried donuts with a sweet, spiced flavor, perfect for breakfast or snacks, appealing to those who love warm, indulgent treats with cinnamon and maple frosting.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the yeast in 1 cup hot water and set aside.
- Cool the mixture to lukewarm.
- Add the dissolved yeast, 2 eggs, and 1/2 cup lard to the mixture.
- Gradually add 7 to 8 cups of flour and mix well.
- Let the dough rise until doubled in size.
- Knead the dough and let it rise again.
- Roll out the dough and cut into longjohn shapes.
- Allow the cut donuts to rise slightly.
- Deep fry the donuts until golden brown.
- Frost with maple-flavored frosting.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your water is hot but not boiling when dissolving the yeast. If you don't have lard, unsalted butter or vegetable shortening can be substituted, though this may slightly alter the flavor. To enhance the dough, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon, which complements the sweetness. After cutting into shapes, you can sprinkle a little sugar on top before frying for an extra touch of sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your longjohns with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a delightful treat. They also pair beautifully with breakfast items like scrambled eggs or bacon, making for a delicious brunch. For an added twist, try serving them alongside a fresh fruit salad, like the Apple And Walnut Salad, for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover longjohns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in an oven set to 350°F until heated through, which helps restore their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Longjohns contains roughly 394 calories, with 5g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 848mg per serving (37% 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 make longjohns ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise, then shape and cut the donuts. Refrigerate the shaped donuts overnight and fry them in the morning for fresh longjohns. Just allow them to come to room temperature before frying.
What type of flour is best for longjohns?
All-purpose flour works best for longjohns, providing the right balance of structure and tenderness. If you want a slightly lighter texture, you could mix in some bread flour, which has a higher protein content.
Can I freeze longjohns?
Yes, you can freeze longjohns! Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat before serving.
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).