Name: Buttermilk Doughnuts
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 0.5 teaspoon baking soda; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 whole eggs; ¾ cup buttermilk; ½ cup sour cream; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled; Vegetable oil for frying; 4 ounces dark chocolate, coarsely chopped; ¾ cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cups powdered sugar; ¼ cup whole milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon

There’s something undeniably enchanting about the aroma of freshly fried doughnuts wafting through the kitchen. Buttermilk Doughnuts stand out as a classic treat, beloved for their tender, cake-like texture and rich flavor profile. These delightful rings, often coated in a sweet glaze or dusted with cinnamon sugar, are perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of love, you can create these mouthwatering treats right at home. Let’s dive into the delightful world of Buttermilk Doughnuts!

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Buttermilk Doughnuts are a favorite for good reason. Their fluffy interior, combined with a crisp exterior, makes every bite a delightful experience. The buttermilk adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness, while the freshly grated nutmeg and ground cinnamon provide warm, inviting flavors. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging yourself, these doughnuts are sure to impress. Plus, they’re easily customizable with various toppings and glazes, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Ingredient Breakdown

To make your own batch of Buttermilk Doughnuts, you’ll need the following ingredients:

3 cups (437.5g) all-purpose flour: The base of your doughnuts, providing structure.
1 cup (150g) granulated sugar: For sweetness and a slight crunch.
0.5 teaspoon baking soda: Helps with leavening.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Ensures the doughnuts rise beautifully.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors.
1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg: Adds a warm, aromatic spice.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A cozy, familiar flavor.
2 eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
¾ cup (180ml) buttermilk: Tenderizes the doughnuts for a soft bite.
½ cup (57.5ml) sour cream: Adds moisture and tang.
½ cup (56.75g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled: Enriches the dough.
Vegetable oil for frying: Essential for achieving that perfect crispy exterior.
4 ounces (113.4g) dark chocolate, coarsely chopped: For a luxurious chocolate glaze.
¾ cup (119ml) heavy cream: To create a smooth and rich chocolate sauce.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness to the chocolate glaze.
2 cups (240g) powdered sugar: Sweetens the glaze.
¼ cup (61ml) whole milk: To adjust the consistency of the glaze.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A delightful aromatic flavor.
1 cup (250g) granulated sugar: For the cinnamon sugar topping.
3 tablespoons ground cinnamon: To coat the doughnuts.

Recommended Tools

To make your Buttermilk Doughnuts, having the right tools will make the process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

Mixing bowls: For combining your dry and wet ingredients.
Whisk: To mix the ingredients evenly.
Frying thermometer: To ensure your oil is at the perfect frying temperature.
Doughnut cutter: For shaping your doughnuts.
Slotted spoon: To remove doughnuts from the oil.
Parchment paper: For draining excess oil.

From Start to Finish: Buttermilk Doughnuts

Making Buttermilk Doughnuts is a rewarding process. Follow these steps to create your own delicious batch:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Whisk together until well combined.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then add the buttermilk, sour cream, and melted butter. Mix until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix. The batter should be thick and slightly sticky.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps the doughnuts hold their shape when frying.

Step 5: Heat the Oil

In a deep pot or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a frying thermometer to maintain the temperature throughout the frying process.

Step 6: Shape the Doughnuts

On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ½ inch thick. Use a doughnut cutter to cut out the doughnuts, making sure to cut the centers out as well.

Step 7: Fry the Doughnuts

Carefully drop the doughnuts into the hot oil, frying in batches. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove and transfer to a plate lined with parchment paper.

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the chopped dark chocolate, heavy cream, and butter. Stir until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until the glaze reaches your desired consistency.

Step 9: Glaze the Doughnuts

Once the doughnuts have cooled slightly, dip the tops in the chocolate glaze. Allow excess glaze to drip off before placing on a cooling rack.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!

For a delightful twist, you can also mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a bowl and roll the warm doughnuts in the mixture. Serve fresh and enjoy the sweet, comforting flavors of your homemade Buttermilk Doughnuts!

Better-for-You Options

If you’re looking to make some healthier modifications, consider these options:

Use whole wheat flour in place of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to reduce fat.
Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
Reduce the sugar in the glaze by half for a less sweet option.

Steer Clear of These

When making Buttermilk Doughnuts, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

Do not overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough doughnuts.
Avoid frying at too high or low of a temperature, which can cause doughnuts to cook unevenly.
Refrain from skipping the chilling step; it’s crucial for maintaining shape while frying.
Don’t skip the nutmeg or cinnamon; these spices are essential for flavor.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

To ensure your Buttermilk Doughnuts stay fresh:

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
For longer storage, freeze unglazed doughnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheat in a low oven or toaster oven to restore freshness.

Quick Q&A

Can I bake these doughnuts instead of frying them?

Yes! You can bake Buttermilk Doughnuts by using a doughnut pan. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.

What if I don’t have buttermilk? Can I substitute it?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by mixing ¾ cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

How do I know when the oil is ready for frying?

A frying thermometer is the best way to check, but you can also drop a small piece of dough into the oil—if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.

Can I use other types of toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with toppings like sprinkles, chopped nuts, or a simple vanilla glaze. Alternatively, you can pair these doughnuts with Chocolate Sauce for an extra indulgent treat.

Here are some other delightful recipes you might enjoy:

Save & Share

If you loved making these Buttermilk Doughnuts, don’t forget to share your creations on social media! Tag your friends, and inspire them to whip up their own batch of these delicious treats. Happy frying!