Old-Fashioned Doughnuts
Old-Fashioned Doughnuts offer a nostalgic treat with a lightly spiced, tender interior and a golden, crispy exterior. Perfect for breakfast or special occasions, these classic fried doughnuts are simple to make and delight with their warm, sweet aroma and comforting flavor. Ideal for sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, measure 1 1/2 cups of flour and combine with remaining ingredients (sugar, buttermilk, soda, nutmeg, eggs, shortening, baking powder, salt).
- In a mixer, beat the mixture for 1 minute, then stir in the remaining flour to form a soft dough.
- Refrigerate the dough for 1 hour.
- Roll out the dough to 1/2-inch thickness and cut into doughnut shapes.
- Fry in a deep fat fryer with oil heated to 370°F until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, make sure not to overmix the dough after adding the remaining flour. You can substitute whole milk for buttermilk by adding a tablespoon of vinegar to regular milk. If you prefer a sweeter doughnut, consider adding a bit more sugar or rolling the finished doughnuts in cinnamon sugar for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these old-fashioned doughnuts warm for the best flavor and texture. They pair beautifully with coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy treat. Consider drizzling them with a simple glaze or serving alongside a fruit compote for a delightful contrast. For a festive option, try serving them with Jingle Bell Fudge.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to a month. Reheat in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a toaster oven until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Fashioned Doughnuts contains roughly 53 calories, with 2g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
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 doughnut dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before rolling it out and cutting the doughnuts. This helps the dough to relax and makes it easier to work with.
What type of oil is best for frying doughnuts?
Vegetable oil or canola oil are great choices for frying doughnuts because of their high smoke points and neutral flavors. Avoid using olive oil, as it has a lower smoke point and can impart unwanted flavors to the doughnuts.
How can I tell when the doughnuts are done frying?
Doughnuts are done frying when they are golden brown and float to the surface of the oil. You can also check by inserting a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the doughnut is cooked through. Ensure the oil temperature stays around 370°F for even cooking.
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).