There’s something undeniably comforting about biting into a freshly made doughnut. With its soft texture, slightly crisp edges, and deliciously sweet glaze, a classic sour cream doughnut is a nostalgic treat that never goes out of style. This recipe brings the joy of doughnut making into your kitchen, letting you create bakery-worthy treats that will impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Classic Sour Cream Doughnut Recipe
Homemade sour cream doughnuts are a game-changer for any breakfast or dessert table. Here’s why this recipe will become your favorite:
- Simple Ingredients: Most of the items are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up a batch anytime.
- Quick and Easy: You don’t need fancy equipment to make these doughnuts.
- Rich Flavor: The sour cream adds a subtle tang and keeps the doughnuts moist.
- Customizable: Add your favorite glazes, toppings, or spices to make them your own.
Ingredients for Classic Sour Cream Doughnuts
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
All-purpose flour | 2 1/4 cups |
Baking powder | 2 teaspoons |
Baking soda | 1/4 teaspoon |
Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
Ground nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon |
Granulated sugar | 3/4 cup |
Sour cream | 1/2 cup |
Large eggs | 2 |
Unsalted butter (melted) | 1/4 cup |
Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
Vegetable oil (for frying) | As needed |
Powdered sugar or glaze | For topping |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg. Set aside.
- In another bowl, beat the sugar and eggs until light and fluffy. Add the sour cream, melted butter, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to make it easier to handle.
2. Roll and Cut the Doughnuts
- Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin.
- Roll out the chilled dough to about 1/2-inch thickness.
- Use a doughnut cutter or two round cutters (one large, one small) to cut out the doughnuts. Re-roll the scraps and repeat until all the dough is used.
3. Heat the Oil
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, pour vegetable oil to a depth of about 2 inches.
- Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) using a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
- Line a baking sheet with paper towels to drain the doughnuts after frying.
4. Fry the Doughnuts
- Carefully place 2-3 doughnuts into the hot oil at a time.
- Fry for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the doughnuts and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Glaze and Serve
- Once the doughnuts have cooled slightly, dust them with powdered sugar or dip them in a glaze made of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Let the glaze set before serving.
Tips for Perfect Sour Cream Doughnuts
- Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can make the doughnuts dense. Mix until just combined.
- Monitor Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at a steady 350°F to ensure even cooking.
- Use Fresh Nutmeg: Freshly grated nutmeg enhances the flavor.
- Work with Cold Dough: Chilled dough is easier to roll and cut.
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Per Doughnut |
---|---|
Calories | 250 |
Protein | 4g |
Fat | 12g |
Carbohydrates | 32g |
Fiber | 1g |
Sodium | 180mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands.
Serving Suggestions
- With Coffee or Tea: Pair your doughnuts with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a classic combination.
- As a Dessert: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
- For Brunch: Add these doughnuts to your brunch spread alongside fresh fruit and mimosas.
FAQs About Classic Sour Cream Doughnuts
1. Can I bake these doughnuts instead of frying?
Yes! Use a doughnut pan and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes. They will have a different texture but still taste delicious.
2. How do I store leftover doughnuts?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze without glaze for up to 2 months.
3. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, plain Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute for sour cream.
4. What oil is best for frying?
Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil are ideal for frying doughnuts.
5. Can I flavor the glaze?
Absolutely! Add a splash of maple syrup, lemon juice, or almond extract to the glaze for extra flavor.
6. Why are my doughnuts greasy?
This happens when the oil temperature is too low. Ensure the oil stays at 350°F for perfect frying.
Conclusion: Try This Classic Sour Cream Doughnut Recipe Today
There’s no need to visit a bakery when you can make your own delicious doughnuts at home. This Classic Sour Cream Doughnut Recipe is simple, fun, and produces irresistibly tasty treats. Whether you enjoy them plain, powdered, or glazed, these doughnuts are sure to bring a smile to your face.
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Ready to get started? Gather your ingredients and treat yourself to homemade doughnuts today!

Classic Sour Cream Doughnut Recipe: A Timeless Treat
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg.
- In a separate bowl, beat the sugar and eggs until light and fluffy. Add the sour cream, melted butter, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the doughnuts tender.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Lightly flour a clean surface and rolling pin. Roll out the chilled dough to 1/2-inch thickness.
- Use a doughnut cutter or two round cutters (one larger, one smaller) to cut out doughnut shapes. Re-roll scraps to use all the dough.
- Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain a consistent temperature.
- Line a baking sheet with paper towels to drain the doughnuts after frying.
- Carefully place 2-3 doughnuts in the hot oil at a time, avoiding overcrowding.
- Fry for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make a smooth glaze.
- Dip the warm doughnuts into the glaze, allowing excess to drip off. Place on a wire rack to set.
- Serve warm or at room temperature. These doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh!
Notes
- Keep the dough cold for easier handling.
- Monitor the oil temperature; too hot will burn the doughnuts, and too low will make them greasy.
- Add flavor variations to the glaze, such as maple syrup, citrus zest, or cinnamon.