If you’re craving that warm, nostalgic treat that instantly brings you back to cozy mornings and family gatherings, then you’re in for a real delight with Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Doughnuts Recipe. This classic recipe combines simple pantry staples to create light, fluffy doughnuts with just the right hint of sweetness and a golden crust that’s utterly irresistible. There’s something truly magical about making these doughnuts from scratch—the aroma fills your kitchen, and every bite tastes like a hug from Grandma herself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Doughnuts Recipe keeps things wonderfully straightforward, using everyday ingredients that come together to give you the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and that beautiful golden color.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of your dough, providing structure and tenderness.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: The magic that gives your doughnuts a light, fluffy rise.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the dough together and give it richness.
- 1/2 cup milk: Keeps the dough moist and tender.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor and a lovely aroma.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and ensures a tender crumb.
- Oil for frying: Essential for achieving that crisp golden outside.
- Powdered sugar for dusting: The classic finishing touch that adds a delicate sweetness and beautiful look.
How to Make Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Doughnuts Recipe
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. This ensures all the dry components are well mixed and ready to embrace the wet ingredients for an even dough consistency.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth. This mixture brings moisture and flavor that will turn the dry ingredients into a luscious dough.
Step 3: Bring the Dough Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. It’s important not to overmix here; you want the dough to come together but remain light enough to fry up wonderfully.
Step 4: Roll and Cut
Dust your work surface with a little flour, then roll out the dough to about half an inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter or two round cutters (one larger and one smaller) to shape the doughnuts and their holes. This step is where it starts to feel like real doughnut magic!
Step 5: Heat the Oil
Whether you have a deep fryer or a heavy pot, heat your oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Maintaining the right temperature is key to that perfect golden crust without soaking up too much oil.
Step 6: Fry the Doughnuts
Carefully place the doughnuts into the hot oil and fry for 2 to 3 minutes, turning once so both sides become beautifully golden brown. Fried to perfection, these doughnuts will have a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior.
Step 7: Drain and Dust
Remove the doughnuts from the oil and let them drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Just before serving, dust generously with powdered sugar for that signature finishing touch of Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Doughnuts Recipe.
How to Serve Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Doughnuts Recipe
Garnishes
While a light dusting of powdered sugar is the traditional way to present these doughnuts, you can also get creative with cinnamon sugar, a simple glaze, or even a sprinkle of colorful sprinkles for a festive touch. Each garnish enhances the nostalgic charm of this recipe in its own delightful way.
Side Dishes
These doughnuts shine on their own but are also perfect alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea. Fresh fruit, like berries or sliced apples, can add a fresh, vibrant contrast, making your breakfast or snack feel even more special.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist on Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Doughnuts Recipe, try stacking them with layers of whipped cream and fresh fruit for a doughnut “cake.” Or serve them as doughnut holes dipped in chocolate sauce for an irresistible party treat. No matter the presentation, these doughnuts will steal the show every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any doughnuts left, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but this helps keep their softness intact without drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze the doughnuts by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to a month, letting you enjoy Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Doughnuts Recipe anytime you crave a homemade treat.
Reheating
To revive the doughnuts’ fresh-from-the-fryer goodness, warm them in a 350-degree oven for about 5-7 minutes. This brings back the crispy exterior and fluffy inside beautifully, making them taste like they were just made.
FAQs
Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?
While cake flour is lighter and finer, it might make the doughnuts too delicate to handle during frying. Sticking with all-purpose flour gives you the best balance of structure and tenderness for Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Doughnuts Recipe.
What type of oil is best for frying doughnuts?
Neutral oils with high smoke points like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work best. They’ll fry the doughnuts evenly without adding unwanted flavors or burning too quickly.
Can I bake these doughnuts instead of frying?
This recipe is designed specifically for frying to get that signature golden crust, but you can try baking them at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10-12 minutes. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will be a bit different from the original.
How do I keep the doughnuts from getting greasy?
Maintaining the oil temperature at 350 degrees ensures the doughnuts cook quickly and absorb less oil. Also, placing them on paper towels right after frying helps drain excess oil effectively.
Is it possible to make doughnut holes with this recipe?
Absolutely! Use the centers you cut out from each doughnut or roll smaller portions into balls and fry them similarly. They make perfect bite-sized treats and are just as delicious.
Final Thoughts
Making Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Doughnuts Recipe is more than just baking; it’s about capturing that warm, comforting feeling of home in every bite. Whether it’s a weekend breakfast or an anytime snack, these doughnuts promise smiles around the table and a little taste of nostalgia. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own family favorite too!
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Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Doughnuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 doughnuts
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Doughnuts are classic, fluffy, and light fried doughnuts dusted with powdered sugar. Made with simple pantry ingredients, these homemade doughnuts offer a nostalgic flavor and crispy exterior perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
For Frying and Serving
- Oil for frying (such as vegetable or canola oil)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt thoroughly to ensure even distribution of leavening agents and seasoning.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and melted unsalted butter until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Form the Dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the dough light.
- Shape the 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 the doughnut shapes, creating a hole in the center of each.
- Prepare Oil for Frying: Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large, heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Maintaining this temperature is important for even cooking.
- Fry the Doughnuts: Carefully place the doughnuts into the hot oil in batches, frying them for 2-3 minutes total. Turn them halfway through to ensure they brown evenly on both sides.
- Drain and Dust: Remove the cooked doughnuts with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Once cooled slightly, dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Maintain oil temperature at 350°F for perfectly cooked doughnuts with a crispy exterior and soft interior.
- Do not overcrowd the fryer; fry in small batches to keep oil temperature steady.
- If dough is too sticky to handle, chill it briefly in the refrigerator for easier rolling and cutting.
- Use fresh ingredients, especially baking powder, to ensure proper rise.
- Leftover doughnuts are best eaten the same day for optimal freshness.
