Old Fashioned Spicy Donuts

Prep: 30 min Cook: 8 min Serves: 36 Cuisine: American

Old Fashioned Spicy Donuts feature warm cinnamon and nutmeg flavors, crispy golden exterior, and soft interior, perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat to delight all ages.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 package yeast
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 5 cups flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/4 cup shortening

Instructions

  1. Scald the milk and let it cool to lukewarm.
  2. Add shortening and salt to the milk mixture.
  3. Stir in yeast and 2 1/2 cups of flour; beat until smooth.
  4. Cover and let the mixture rise until bubbly.
  5. Mix spices with sugar and beaten eggs.
  6. Combine the spice mixture with the bubbly yeast mixture.
  7. Add remaining flour gradually to form a kneadable dough.
  8. Knead until smooth, then cover and let rise until doubled in size.
  9. Roll the dough out to 1/2-inch thickness and cut into donuts.
  10. Let the cut donuts rise on a board until doubled in size.
  11. Fry in deep fat at 375°F until golden brown, about 8 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter donut, avoid over-kneading the dough; it should be smooth but not tough. If you don’t have shortening, unsalted butter can be used instead. For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mix. Ensure the milk is not too hot when adding yeast, as this can kill it. Always check the expiration date of your yeast for best results.

Serving Suggestions

These spicy donuts are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of glaze. Pair them with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy treat. For a festive touch, serve alongside Jello Buttermilk Salad for a colorful dessert spread. They also make a great addition to brunch or holiday gatherings.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag; they can last up to 3 months. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes or in a microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Old Fashioned Spicy Donuts contains roughly 229 calories, with 3g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 12g fat.

229 kcal 11% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.7g 5% DV
Total Fat 11.8g 15% DV
Carbs 28.6g 10% DV
Fiber 2g 7% DV
Sugar 10.7g 21% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 325.8mg 14% DV
Potassium 116.7mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 14.8mg 5% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 11.3mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 4.6mg 5% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 102.3mg 8% DV
Iron 1mg 6% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. However, the texture may be denser, so adjust the liquid slightly if needed.

What is the best way to ensure the donuts rise properly?

To ensure proper rising, make sure your yeast is fresh and activate it in warm milk (about 110°F). Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area; a slightly warm oven works well. Cover the dough to retain moisture.

How can I make these donuts less spicy?

To reduce the spice level, you can decrease the amount of cinnamon and nutmeg used. Alternatively, you can omit the nutmeg altogether, as it has a stronger flavor. Adding a glaze or frosting can also help balance the spices.

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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