Buttermilk Doughnuts: A Nostalgic Treat Perfect for Any Occasion
When it comes to delightful indulgences that evoke fond memories, nothing quite compares to the comforting sweetness of homemade buttermilk doughnuts. This cherished recipe, passed down from my teenage years, has become a staple in our household, especially when my nephews and nieces come to spend the night. The delightful aroma of doughnuts frying in the kitchen is enough to make anyone’s mouth water, and the best part is that these treats are well worth the time invested in their preparation. Not only are they fluffy and delicious, but they also offer a chance to bond with loved ones as you whip up a batch together.
Recipe Overview:
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 14 doughnuts
- Category: Breads
- Keywords: Breakfast, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Kid Friendly, Hanukkah, Brunch, Deep Fried, < 4 Hours
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dry active yeast | 1 packet |
| Warm water | 1/2 cup |
| Buttermilk | 1/2 cup |
| Shortening | 3 tablespoons |
| Sugar | 3 tablespoons |
| All-purpose flour | 2 1/2 – 3 cups |
| Baking powder | 3 teaspoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Powdered sugar | 2 1/2 cups |
| Milk | 1/4 cup |
| Vegetable oil (for frying) | 2-3 inches in depth |
Nutritional Information (per doughnut)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 208.9 kcal |
| Total Fat | 3.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 1 mg |
| Sodium | 256.8 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 42.3 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.8 g |
| Sugars | 24.1 g |
| Protein | 3.1 g |
Instructions
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Activate the Yeast: Begin by dissolving the dry active yeast in warm water within a large mixing bowl, allowing it to stand undisturbed for about 5 minutes. This process activates the yeast, ensuring that your doughnuts will rise beautifully and have a light, airy texture.
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Combine Ingredients: After the yeast has activated, add the buttermilk, shortening, sugar, and 1 1/2 cups of flour, along with the baking powder and salt to the bowl. Use a whisk or wooden spoon to mix these ingredients thoroughly, ensuring that the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture is smooth.
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Form the Dough: Gradually add in enough of the remaining flour to create a soft dough. Be careful not to over-flour; the dough should be just tacky enough to handle but not sticky.
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Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently several times, about 5-10 times should suffice, until it is smooth and elastic. This step develops the gluten, giving your doughnuts their desirable texture.
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Roll and Cut: Roll the dough out to about 1/2 inch thick. Using a 2 1/2-inch doughnut cutter, cut out the doughnuts, placing them on a lightly floured surface. Use the cutter to also create holes in the center if you prefer traditional doughnuts. Gather any excess dough and re-roll it to cut out additional doughnuts.
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Let Doughnuts Rise: Cover the cut doughnuts with a clean kitchen towel and allow them to rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 45 minutes or until they have doubled in size. This rising time is crucial, as it creates the airy texture we all love in a doughnut.
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Prepare for Frying: As the doughnuts rise, heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to a temperature of 375°F (190°C). If using a thermometer, monitor the oil closely to ensure the correct temperature, as this will influence the doughnut’s cooking process.
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Fry the Doughnuts: Once the oil is heated, carefully drop in 4 or 5 doughnuts at a time, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the doughnuts for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they achieve a lightly golden brown color. Turn them gently with a slotted spoon or tongs to ensure even cooking.
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Drain Excess Oil: Using a slotted spoon, remove the doughnuts from the oil and allow them to drain on paper towels to remove excess grease. This step is essential to keep the doughnuts light and prevent them from being overly oily.
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Prepare the Glaze: In a separate bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups of powdered sugar with 1/4 cup of milk. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined, forming a glaze that will coat the doughnuts beautifully.
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Glaze the Doughnuts: While the doughnuts are still warm, dip each one into the glaze, allowing the excess to drip off. Place the glazed doughnuts on a wire rack to cool completely, or enjoy them warm if you prefer.
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Serve and Enjoy: These delectable buttermilk doughnuts are best served fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for a day or two. Whether enjoyed at breakfast, as a mid-afternoon snack, or served at brunch gatherings, these doughnuts are sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to anyone who tries them.
By following this detailed recipe, you will create an irresistible batch of buttermilk doughnuts that are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a way to create cherished memories with family and friends. Each bite of these doughnuts, with their light and fluffy texture and sweet glaze, will transport you back to simpler times, making them a perfect addition to your recipe repertoire. Enjoy this delightful culinary experience and share the love with those around you, making these doughnuts a part of your family traditions for years to come.
