Classic Cake Donuts

Classic Cake Donuts Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a freshly made classic cake donut, most often enjoyed with warm coffee or a tall glass of milk. The moment you sink your teeth into these soft, pillowy treats, your senses awaken with the rich aroma of vanilla and cinnamon, instantly transporting you back to your childhood. Perfect for a lazy Sunday morning or an after-school snack, these cake donuts are not only quick to whip up but also adaptable to any flavor you desire—whether it’s a dazzling vanilla glaze, a rich chocolate topping, or a sweet dusting of powdered sugar. Why not bring that nostalgia and joy home today and create your very own classic cake donuts?

What’s Your Favorite Donut Topping?

Do you recall the thrill of visiting a local donut shop and having to make the impossible decision between a chocolate-glazed masterpiece or a cinnamon-sugar dusted delight? Imagine the sigh of relief when you realize you can create each of these decadent flavors right in your kitchen! What’s your ultimate favorite—smooth and creamy vanilla glaze or the warm, inviting sprinkle of cinnamon sugar?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Prep: Whipping up a batch of classic cake donuts is a straightforward process that requires minimal fuss.

• Kid-Friendly: This recipe is perfect for involving the kids in the kitchen, from mixing the ingredients to decorating the finished product.

• Crowd-Pleaser: With soft, fluffy interiors and a myriad of topping options, these donuts will be the star of any gathering.

• Minimal Ingredients: You likely have most of these ingredients on hand, making this a spontaneous treat you can prepare whenever the craving strikes.

• Customizable: Whether you prefer traditional flavors or adventurous takes on classic donuts, this recipe allows for creative freedom with toppings and fillings.

Ingredients

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
  The rich, creamy texture of the butter adds depth, allowing each bite to melt in your mouth.

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  Sweetness comes alive with granulated sugar, creating a tender crumb that’s just sweet enough to tantalize your taste buds.

• 2 large eggs
  These help bind the dough for that perfectly fluffy texture.

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  This essential ingredient elevates the flavor profile, filling your kitchen with a delightful scent.

• 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
  Essential for structure, all-purpose flour is the backbone of these delicious donuts.

• 1 tablespoon baking powder
  A key leavening agent, this gives the donuts that delightful rise, resulting in a soft texture.

• ½ teaspoon baking soda
  Balanced with the baking powder to create the perfect lift.

• 3/4 teaspoon salt
  The touch of salt enhances overall flavor, making each bite even more delightful.

• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  Warm and inviting, cinnamon gives these donuts a cozy feeling with every taste.

• 2 tablespoons sour cream
  A secret ingredient that adds moisture and tanginess, making the donuts supremely tender.

• ¼ cup milk
  Milk enriches the dough, ensuring a soft and melt-in-your-mouth experience.

• Canola or vegetable oil for frying (about 48 ounces)
  Essential for that deep-fried finish, allowing each donut to achieve a golden, crisp exterior.

• Cinnamon sugar (see below)
  A beloved topping that adds a sweet crunch with a hint of spice.

• Vanilla glaze
  Creamy and indulgent, this glaze is perfect for a decadent finish.

• Chocolate glaze
  Rich and gooey, chocolate lovers will adore the luscious finish it provides.

• Powdered sugar
  A classic choice for those who prefer a light, sweet dusting.

• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  This will be combined with cinnamon to create the perfect topping.

• 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
  The divine combination of sugar and cinnamon makes for irresistible donuts.

Timing

Whipping up classic cake donuts can be incredibly fast and indulgent while still offering a touch of luxury. From the moment you pull out your mixing bowls to the satisfying crunch of the first bite, you can have these delights ready to serve in just under an hour. In less than 15 minutes of prep time and a quick fry, you’ll be enjoying fresh cake donuts that evoke fond memories and laughter shared with loved ones.

Step-by-Step

1. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.

2. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing on medium speed until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

3. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon, ensuring there are no lumps.

4. In a measuring cup, combine the sour cream and milk, whisking to blend.

5. Gradually add half of the dry mixture to the butter mixture, then pour all the milk mixture in, and finally add the remaining dry mixture, mixing to combine after each addition. The dough should be soft, yet workable.

6. Dust your countertop with flour and turn out the dough, kneading it gently 2-3 times to form a ball. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about ⅓ inch.

7. Using a donut cutter or a circle cutter, cut the dough into donut shapes. Be sure to dip the cutter(s) in flour to avoid sticking.

8. Re-roll any dough scraps as needed to make additional donuts.

9. Heat oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven up to a temperature of 375°F. Use a fry thermometer to maintain this temperature throughout the frying process.

10. Prepare a half sheet pan with paper towels and place a wire cooling rack upside down on top.

11. Carefully place 2 donuts at a time into the hot oil, using a slotted spoon. Fry the donuts for about 2 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully golden brown.

12. Remove donuts from the oil, letting the excess oil drain back into the pot, and place them immediately onto the prepared cooling rack, flipping them to allow for additional draining.

13. Repeat the frying process with the remaining donuts and donut holes, which will only require about 1 minute of frying on each side.

14. To coat with cinnamon sugar: Mix granulated sugar and cinnamon together, then toss each donut while they are still warm to ensure even coverage.

15. To coat with vanilla or chocolate glaze: Dunk the tops of the cooled donuts into the glaze, allowing excess to drip off.

16. To coat with powdered sugar: Simply sprinkle powdered sugar over warm donuts for a sweet finish.

Nutritional Information

Each classic cake donut comes in at around 180 calories, making them a modest indulgence. While it’s okay to treat yourself on occasion, remember that moderation is key. A delightful dessert doesn’t come with guilt if you enjoy it responsibly!

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking for some healthier alternatives, consider swapping out the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour or using almond milk instead of regular milk. You could also experiment with using less sugar or substituting with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. The addition of Greek yogurt can replace some of the sour cream, offering a reduction in fat content while maintaining a moist texture!

Serving Suggestions

Classic cake donuts can elevate your dessert game during special occasions or casual get-togethers. Pair them with a scoop of your favorite ice cream for an indulgent sundae, serve them on holidays like Easter or Christmas for a festive twist, or even bring them along to a brunch potluck. No matter when or where, classic cake donuts always prove to be a hit!

Common Mistakes

1. Overbaking: Don’t get carried away! Keep a close eye on the frying time; overbaked donuts can become dense and dry.

2. Texture Issues: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough donuts. Mix until just combined for a tender result.

3. Messes: Frying can get messy! Lay down a few paper towels beforehand to catch any spills and make clean-up easier.

Storing Tips

To enjoy these treats beyond the first day, consider freezing portions. Allow the donuts to cool completely, then place them in airtight containers or freezer bags, squeezing out as much air as possible. They’ll last in the freezer for up to a month. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, and they’ll taste as fresh as the day they were made!

Tempted to Bake These Classic Cake Donuts ASAP?

There’s no time like the present to dive into the world of homemade classic cake donuts. With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and endless topping possibilities, you’ll find yourself whipping these beauties up again and again. Whether for breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack, you owe it to yourself—and your taste buds—to experience the joy of freshly made donuts.

FAQs

1. Can I bake the donuts instead of frying?
   Yes! You can bake the donuts in a donut pan at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes for a healthier alternative.

2. How do I ensure the donuts cook evenly?
   Maintain the oil temperature around 375°F and fry in small batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature.

3. What can I use instead of eggs?
   You can substitute eggs with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water).

4. How do I prevent the donuts from sticking to the cutter?
   Dust your cutters with flour before cutting to help prevent sticking.

5. How long do the donuts stay fresh?
   They are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the freezer for up to a month.

Now that you have everything you need to recreate this delightful classic cake donut recipe, get to it and allow your creativity to run wild! Your taste buds will thank you!

Classic Cake Donuts

These classic cake donuts are soft, fluffy treats perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, customizable with various toppings for added indulgence.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 27 minutes mins

Servings: 12 donuts

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 180

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Donut Base

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened) Adds depth and richness.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar Creates a tender crumb.
• 2 large eggs Helps bind the dough.
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract Elevates flavor profile.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting) Provides structure.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder Key leavening agent.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda Balances with baking powder.
• 3/4 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon Adds warmth.
• 2 tablespoons sour cream Adds moisture.
• 1/4 cup milk Enriches the dough.
• 48 ounces canola or vegetable oil for frying Necessary for deep-frying.

Toppings

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar For cinnamon sugar topping.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon Mixed with sugar for topping.
• as needed vanilla glaze For topping donuts.
• as needed chocolate glaze For a decadent finish.
• as needed powdered sugar For a classic dusting.

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
2. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing on medium speed until thoroughly combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
4. In a measuring cup, combine the sour cream and milk, whisking to blend.
5. Gradually add half of the dry mixture to the butter mixture, then add the milk mixture, and finally incorporate the remaining dry mixture.
6. Dust your countertop with flour, turn out the dough, and knead gently to form a ball.

Cooking

1. Roll out the dough to ⅓ inch thickness and cut out donut shapes.
2. Heat oil to 375°F in a heavy-bottomed pot.
3. Fry 2 donuts at a time for about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. Drain on a wire rack and repeat with remaining donuts.

Coating

1. Toss warm donuts in cinnamon sugar or dip in vanilla or chocolate glaze.
2. Sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired.

Notes

To store, freeze cooled donuts in airtight containers for up to a month. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to enjoy fresh.