The Best Doughnuts
Golden, fluffy doughnuts with a hint of nutmeg and sweetness, perfect for breakfast or a treat, appealing to all doughnut lovers seeking a classic homemade version.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix eggs, shortening, sugar, salt, nutmeg, buttermilk, baking powder, and soda together in a large bowl.
- Gradually add enough flour to make a soft, yet stiff dough suitable for rolling out.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch thickness.
- Cut out doughnuts using a doughnut cutter or a round cutter with a hole in the center.
- Heat deep oil to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry the doughnuts in hot oil until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove doughnuts and drain on paper towels before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter doughnut, make sure your oil is at the correct temperature of 375°F (190°C) before frying. You can substitute shortening with melted butter or vegetable oil for a different flavor. If you don't have buttermilk, mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar and let it sit for a few minutes. This will mimic buttermilk's acidity and moisture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the doughnuts warm, dusted with powdered sugar or glazed with a simple icing. They pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk. For a fun twist, consider serving with a side of Reba'S Slaw for a sweet and savory contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes until they are warm and slightly crisp. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them chewy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of The Best Doughnuts contains roughly 370 calories, with 8g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value), iron (17% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 635mg per serving (28% 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 doughnuts in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Roll and cut the doughnuts just before frying to ensure freshness and optimal texture.
What can I do if I don't have a doughnut cutter?
If you don't have a doughnut cutter, use two round cutters of different sizes to create the classic shape. A glass can work for the outer shape, and a smaller bottle cap for the hole.
Can I freeze the doughnuts?
Absolutely! After frying and cooling, you can freeze the doughnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be reheated in the oven after thawing.
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).