Old Fashioned Donut Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Oil for frying
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg.
- Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla.
- Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead gently 4-5 times.
- Roll dough to 1/2 inch thickness and cut with a donut cutter.
- Place donuts on a floured baking sheet and let rest for 30 minutes.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F.
- Fry donuts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels and let cool completely.
- For glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla.
- Dip cooled donuts in glaze and let set before serving.
Special Notes
These old-fashioned donuts have a cake-like texture that's denser than yeast donuts. The key is not to overmix the dough and to let the donuts rest before frying. The nutmeg adds a classic flavor that pairs perfectly with the simple glaze. These donuts are best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for a day. You can also add cinnamon to the glaze or sprinkle with powdered sugar instead. The donuts should be golden brown and cooked through - test one first to ensure proper cooking time.