If you’re craving a nostalgic treat that captures the warmth and charm of simpler times, look no further than Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Doughnuts Recipe. These doughnuts boast a perfectly tender crumb, lightly sweetened and fried to golden perfection, offering that delightful, satisfying crunch on the outside while remaining soft and cakey inside. Whether it’s a special breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or a dessert to share around the kitchen table, this recipe brings treasured memories back to life with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients for this recipe are straightforward pantry staples, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect doughnut texture and flavor. From the flour that gives structure to the vanilla extract that adds a subtle depth, every component is essential to achieving that authentic old-fashioned taste.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the base for the dough, giving it structure and tenderness.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness for balance.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: The leavening agent that helps the doughnuts rise and become fluffy.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances sweetness.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together while adding richness.
- 1/2 cup milk: Keeps the dough moist and tender.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and a lovely aromatic note.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted: Contributes to a soft crumb and rich flavor.
- Oil for frying: Essential for that golden, crispy exterior.
- Powdered sugar for dusting: The classic finishing touch, delivering a delicate sweetness.
How to Make Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Doughnuts Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Begin by whisking together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. This ensures even distribution of leavening and seasoning, helping your doughnuts rise perfectly and taste balanced.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth and combined. This mixture brings moisture, richness, and that signature flavor that makes these doughnuts unforgettable.
Step 3: Bring the Dough Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir gently until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing here; just enough to combine will keep your doughnuts airy and tender once fried.
Step 4: Roll and Cut the Doughnuts
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and carefully roll it out to about half an inch thick. Using a doughnut cutter or two round cutters (for the outer ring and the hole), cut out your doughnuts and holes, preparing them for frying.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
Heat your oil in a deep fryer or a large heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Maintaining the right temperature is key to achieving that golden exterior without absorbing excess oil.
Step 6: Fry to Golden Perfection
Gently lower the doughnuts into the hot oil. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’ll know they’re done when they’re puffed up and a beautiful golden brown all around.
Step 7: Drain and Dust
Remove the doughnuts with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain off any excess oil. While still warm, dust generously with powdered sugar to give them that classic finishing touch that makes Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Doughnuts Recipe so irresistible.
How to Serve Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Doughnuts Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar keeps the focus on the doughnuts’ tender texture, but you could also drizzle melted chocolate, sprinkle cinnamon sugar, or even dip them in glaze for an extra indulgence. Each garnish brings a little twist on the beloved classic without losing its essence.
Side Dishes
Serve these doughnuts alongside a steaming cup of coffee or a creamy latte for the ultimate cozy moment. They also pair wonderfully with fresh fruit, yogurt, or even a dollop of whipped cream to add refreshing balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange doughnuts on a pretty platter and add fresh berries or edible flowers around them for a charming display. For gatherings, stack them in a doughnut tower or thread them through sticks for a fun “doughnut pops” presentation that will delight guests of all ages.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though that rarely lasts long), store the doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This prevents them from drying out and keeps their soft texture intact.
Freezing
You can freeze these doughnuts to enjoy later by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to one month—perfect for a quick treat when time is tight.
Reheating
To bring back that just-fried freshness, reheat doughnuts in a warm oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes or microwave them for 10 to 15 seconds. This revives their softness without compromising their classic texture.
FAQs
Can I use baking soda instead of baking powder?
This recipe relies on baking powder because it provides the right lift and texture. Using baking soda alone can change the taste and make the doughnuts too dense, so it’s best to stick with baking powder for that authentic old-fashioned feel.
What type of oil is best for frying doughnuts?
Neutral oils with high smoke points, like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, are ideal. They fry doughnuts evenly and keep the flavor clean and light without overpowering the dough’s delicate taste.
Can I bake these doughnuts instead of frying?
While you can bake doughnuts for a healthier alternative, the texture will be different — less crispy on the outside and more cakey throughout. This recipe shines when fried, creating the classic contrast in textures that defines old-fashioned doughnuts.
How do I prevent doughnuts from being greasy?
Maintaining the oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) is critical. Too low and doughnuts absorb oil; too high and they brown too quickly on the outside. Also, draining on paper towels immediately after frying helps remove excess oil.
Can I add flavors or spices to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a subtle citrus zest to the dough can elevate the flavors beautifully while keeping the soul of Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Doughnuts Recipe intact.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly heartwarming about making Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Doughnuts Recipe from scratch. The aroma filling your kitchen, the golden edges, and that delightful softness inside bring a nostalgic joy that no store-bought doughnut can match. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to this classic homemade pleasure you’re sure to revisit time and again.
Print
Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Doughnuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Enjoy the nostalgic taste of Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Doughnuts, featuring a simple yet delightful recipe that yields fluffy, golden fried doughnuts dusted with powdered sugar. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, these doughnuts combine classic ingredients with a straightforward frying technique for a homemade treat that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Doughnuts
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
For Frying and Serving
- Oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined to ensure an even rise and balanced sweetness.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter to create a smooth liquid mixture that adds richness and moisture to the dough.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients bowl and stir gently until a dough forms, being careful not to overmix to keep the doughnuts tender.
- Roll and Cut Doughnuts: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter or two round cutters of different sizes to cut out doughnut shapes and holes.
- Heat Oil: Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C), ensuring the oil is at the right temperature for frying to avoid greasy doughnuts.
- Fry Doughnuts: Carefully place the doughnuts in the hot oil. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes, flipping them halfway through until both sides turn golden brown and the doughnuts are cooked through.
- Drain and Dust: Remove the doughnuts with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Once slightly cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar and serve warm for maximum flavor.
Notes
- Make sure the oil temperature stays consistent at 350°F to cook the doughnuts evenly.
- If you don’t have a doughnut cutter, use two round cookie cutters or a glass and a bottle cap to create doughnut shapes.
- For a flavored twist, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients.
- Doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days.
- Use a candy thermometer to monitor oil temperature precisely.
