Old fashioned cake donuts are a nostalgic delight that bring back memories of cozy mornings and comforting homemade treats. These donuts are not like their yeast-raised cousins—they are denser, rich in flavor, and have a slightly crisp crust thanks to deep frying. Whether you enjoy them plain, glazed, or dusted with cinnamon sugar, this recipe will help you master the art of making old fashioned cake donuts right in your own kitchen.
Let’s dive into the full recipe, explore some creative variations, and discover helpful tips to ensure your donuts turn out delicious every time.
Ingredients
You’ll need the following ingredients to make a batch of classic old fashioned cake donuts:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil, for deep frying
Preparation Instructions
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground nutmeg. Whisk until everything is well blended and evenly distributed.
Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Form the Dough
Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined, taking care not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense donuts instead of tender ones.
Prepare the Oil
Heat about 2–3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Use a candy or deep-fry thermometer to maintain a steady temperature—this is key for evenly cooked donuts.
Fry the Donuts
Drop spoonfuls of the dough into the hot oil. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Cook each donut for about 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked inside.
Drain and Cool
Use a slotted spoon to remove the donuts from the oil and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate. This helps drain excess oil and keeps the donuts from becoming greasy.
Serve Warm or Cooled
Let the donuts cool for a few minutes before serving. They are delicious plain but can also be dressed up with glazes or coatings.
Flavor Variations
While the classic version is a treat in itself, you can customize your old fashioned cake donuts with these creative twists:
Glazed Donuts
Whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar with 2–3 tablespoons of milk and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract to make a simple glaze. Dip the slightly cooled donuts into the glaze and let them set on a rack.
Chocolate Cake Donuts
Add 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients to turn your basic recipe into a rich chocolate version.
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
While the donuts are still warm, toss them in a mixture of 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon. This adds a classic sweet-spicy finish.
Maple Glazed Donuts
Create a maple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a splash of maple syrup and a bit of milk. Drizzle over warm donuts for a cozy, fall-inspired flavor.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cake Donuts
Making perfect old fashioned cake donuts is easy with a few extra tips:
- Keep Oil at 350°F (175°C)
Consistent temperature ensures the donuts cook evenly without absorbing too much oil. - Use Nutmeg for Classic Flavor
Nutmeg gives these donuts their signature old fashioned taste—don’t skip it! - Avoid Overmixing
Stir the batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense or chewy donuts. - Drain Properly
Set the fried donuts on paper towels or a wire rack to prevent sogginess. - Let Cool Before Glazing
Allow donuts to cool slightly before applying glazes so they don’t melt off. - Storage Tip
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They’re best eaten within 1–2 days for optimal freshness.
Enjoying Old Fashioned Cake Donuts
These donuts are ideal for breakfast with a hot cup of coffee, as an afternoon snack, or even a special dessert. They’re easy to whip up and can be tailored to your taste preferences with minimal effort. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and again, possibly even making it a weekend tradition.
FAQs
Can I bake old fashioned cake donuts instead of frying them?
Yes, but the texture will be quite different. Baking won’t give you the same crispy exterior that deep frying does. If baking, use a donut pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 12–15 minutes or until cooked through.
What kind of flour works best?
All-purpose flour provides the ideal texture, but you can experiment with a 50/50 mix of all-purpose and cake flour for a lighter crumb. Avoid bread flour as it can make the donuts too tough.
How can I make gluten-free old fashioned donuts?
Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour substitute. Ensure that all other ingredients (like baking powder) are labeled gluten-free. The donuts may be slightly more delicate but still delicious.
Can I freeze the donuts?
Absolutely. After they’ve cooled completely, place the donuts in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Reheat in a toaster oven or warm oven to revive their texture.
Do I need a donut cutter?
Not for this recipe. Since these are spoon-dropped, you don’t need special tools—just a spoon or small scoop. If you prefer shaped donuts, you can roll the dough out on a floured surface and use a biscuit cutter or donut cutter.
Final Thoughts
Old fashioned cake donuts are a timeless classic for good reason. Their simplicity, rich flavor, and satisfying texture make them a favorite across generations. By following this tried-and-true recipe, using quality ingredients, and incorporating a few of your own twists, you can enjoy bakery-style donuts fresh from your own kitchen.
Whether you dip them in glaze, roll them in cinnamon sugar, or savor them plain, each bite of an old fashioned cake donut is a comforting reminder of homemade goodness. So heat up the oil, mix that batter, and get ready to enjoy the warm, golden delight of freshly fried donuts made the old fashioned way.