If you’re craving a treat that feels like a warm hug from the past, then you absolutely have to try Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Doughnuts Recipe. These doughnuts are the perfect balance of soft, fluffy, and lightly sweet, bringing back the nostalgic flavors that only a classic homemade recipe can deliver. Whether you’re making them for a cozy morning breakfast or an indulgent afternoon snack, these doughnuts melt in your mouth with every bite and make your kitchen smell like a little slice of heaven.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is beautifully simple, relying on everyday ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each element plays its role in ensuring your doughnuts turn out perfectly tender, flavorful, and with just the right golden crust.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, giving it structure and a soft crumb.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness that is balanced, never overpowering.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: The leavening agent that helps your doughnuts puff up beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 2 large eggs: Provides richness and binds the dough together.
- 1/2 cup milk: Keeps the dough moist and tender.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Gives a lovely warm aroma and depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted: Adds a subtle buttery richness.
- Oil for frying: Essential for that classic golden exterior and crispy edge.
- Powdered sugar for dusting: The perfect finishing touch to add sweetness and a pretty presentation.
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 step ensures your rising agent is evenly distributed and your doughnuts will have that perfect lift and softness we’re aiming for.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter until everything is smooth and well blended. The vanilla adds a gentle sweetness, while the eggs and butter contribute to a rich, tender dough.
Step 3: Bring Wet and Dry Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir just until a soft dough forms. Don’t overmix here, or your doughnuts could turn out tough instead of fluffy and light.
Step 4: Roll and Cut the Doughnuts
Turn your dough out onto a floured surface and roll it to about half an inch thickness. Using a doughnut cutter or two round cutters, cut out the doughnut shapes. This hands-on step is so satisfying—it’s the moment your doughnut dreams start to take shape!
Step 5: Heat the Oil
Heat your oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). The right temperature is crucial here, as it ensures a crispy, golden crust while cooking the doughnuts through perfectly.
Step 6: Fry the Doughnuts
Carefully lower your doughnuts into the hot oil and fry for 2 to 3 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Watching those doughnuts turn golden brown is one of life’s simple pleasures.
Step 7: Drain and Dust
Once beautifully golden, remove your doughnuts and place them on paper towels to drain off excess oil. While they’re still warm, dust generously with powdered sugar for that classic, irresistible finish.
How to Serve Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Doughnuts Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond a simple dusting of powdered sugar, you can get creative with toppings like a quick cinnamon sugar mix, a drizzle of warm glaze, or even a sprinkle of chopped nuts. These garnishes add exciting textures and flavors that complement the soft doughnuts beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair these doughnuts with a hot cup of coffee or a chilled glass of fresh milk for a match made in heaven. They also go wonderfully with fresh fruit or a homemade berry compote for anyone looking to add a bit more color and brightness to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions or just to wow your family, try stacking the doughnuts in a pretty tower tied with a ribbon, or arrange them alongside bowls of various dips like chocolate sauce, caramel, or fruit jams. It’s a delightful way to elevate Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Doughnuts Recipe for any gathering!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, keep them fresh by storing the doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’re best enjoyed fresh, so don’t wait too long!
Freezing
To keep a longer stash on hand, you can freeze the doughnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can stay frozen for up to 2 months—perfect for those weekend cravings.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy frozen doughnuts, simply reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes to regain that just-fried warmth and crispness. Avoid the microwave for reheating, as it can make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour?
While self-rising flour already contains baking powder and salt, it’s best to stick with all-purpose flour for this recipe to control the leavening precisely and ensure the right texture.
What if I don’t have a doughnut cutter?
No worries at all! You can use two different sized round cutters or even improvise with a large glass for the outer shape and a small bottle cap for the doughnut hole.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Doughnuts Recipe is really best when fried for that authentic texture and flavor, but if you want a lighter version, baking them on a greased sheet at 375°F for 10 to 12 minutes can work as a healthier alternative.
What oil is best for frying doughnuts?
Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like canola or vegetable oil. These ensure your doughnuts cook evenly without adding unwanted flavors.
How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature?
An oil thermometer is your best bet for accuracy, but if you don’t have one, drop a small piece of dough in the oil—if it sizzles and rises to the surface quickly, your oil is ready.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about pulling warm, golden doughnuts fresh from the fryer and knowing you made them from scratch with love. Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Doughnuts Recipe is a timeless treasure that never fails to bring smiles and cozy moments to the table. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself and loved ones to this delightful classic—it’s a memory in every bite!
Print
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, deep-fried treats with a soft, tender crumb and a light dusting of powdered sugar. This nostalgic recipe brings back the warmth of home baking with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, yielding golden, fluffy doughnuts perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
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
Frying and Finishing
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil recommended)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt thoroughly to ensure even distribution of leavening agents and seasoning.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Form the Dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix to keep the dough light.
- Roll Out the Dough: 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 (one larger and one smaller) to cut out the doughnut shapes and holes.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep fryer or large, heavy pot, heat the frying oil to 350°F (175°C) using a thermometer to maintain consistent temperature for even cooking.
- Fry the Doughnuts: Carefully place the doughnuts into the hot oil, frying them for 2-3 minutes total, turning halfway through until they reach a golden brown color on both sides.
- Drain and Dust: Remove the fried doughnuts with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Once slightly cooled, dust them generously with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Ensure oil temperature remains steady at 350°F to prevent greasy or undercooked doughnuts.
- If you don’t have a doughnut cutter, use a large round biscuit cutter and a smaller cutter (like a bottle cap) to shape the center hole.
- For a glazed variant, substitute powdered sugar dusting with a simple sugar glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
- Serve doughnuts fresh and warm for the best texture and flavor.
- Leftover doughnuts can be stored in an airtight container but are best consumed within 1 day to avoid sogginess.
