New Orleans Doughnuts
Golden, fluffy New Orleans-style doughnuts with a hint of sweetness and richness, perfect for breakfast or dessert, enjoyed by all ages and ideal for special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, sprinkle yeast over warm water; stir to dissolve.
- Add sugar, salt, eggs, milk, and shortening; blend well.
- Add flour, one cup at a time, blending well after each addition.
- Turn dough into an oiled bowl and refrigerate about an hour.
- Cut out as much dough as needed to fry each time.
- Cover the remaining dough in the refrigerator with Saran Wrap and punch down every day; it can be kept for up to a week.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter doughnut, let the dough rise longer in the refrigerator, which enhances flavor and texture. You can substitute the evaporated milk with whole milk or a non-dairy alternative if needed. If you prefer, use butter instead of shortening for a richer taste. Ensure the oil for frying is at the right temperature (around 350°F) to achieve a perfect golden color.
Serving Suggestions
These New Orleans doughnuts are delightful when dusted with confectioners' sugar and served warm. Pair them with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a comforting treat. They also make a great dessert alongside Cherry-O'S! for a fun, sweet brunch. For a festive touch, consider drizzling them with a chocolate glaze or serving with a fruit compote.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their texture, or microwave for 10-15 seconds if you prefer a quicker method.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of New Orleans Doughnuts contains roughly 2805 calories, with 10g protein, 459g carbohydrates, and 111g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1356mg per serving (59% 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 freeze the dough for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the dough! After the initial rise, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and let it rise before frying.
What can I do if my dough isn't rising?
If your dough isn't rising, make sure your yeast is fresh and active. Warm water should be around 110°F to activate the yeast. If the environment is too cold, consider placing the dough in a slightly warm oven or a warm spot in your kitchen to encourage rising.
How can I make these doughnuts more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices like nutmeg or cinnamon to the flour mixture. You can also incorporate vanilla extract or citrus zest into the dough for a refreshing twist. If desired, fill the doughnuts with jam or custard after frying for an extra burst of flavor.
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).