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Classic Sour Cream Doughnut Recipe: A Timeless Treat


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  • Author: Melany
  • Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 doughnuts

Description

Indulge in the timeless delight of Classic Sour Cream Doughnuts, made with a soft and moist interior, slightly crispy edges, and a sweet glaze. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a nostalgic treat, these doughnuts are bakery-quality and easy to make at home.


Ingredients

For the Doughnuts:

  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Frying:

  • Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2 inches deep in a pot)

For the Glaze (Optional):

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Prepare the Dough:
    • 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.
  • Roll and Cut the Doughnuts:
    • 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 the Oil:
    • 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.
  • Fry the Doughnuts:
    • 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.
  • Glaze the Doughnuts (Optional):
    • 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 and Enjoy:
    • 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.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes (+ 1 hour chilling)
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert/Breakfast
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American