There’s a certain nostalgic charm to the classic Old Fashioned Sour Cream Cake Donuts that evokes warm memories of simpler times. These donuts are a delightful treat with their tender, cake-like texture and a sweet, slightly tangy glaze that complements the rich flavor of sour cream. I vividly remember my grandmother making these on chilly Sunday mornings; the aroma of freshly fried donuts filling the kitchen was the perfect way to start the day. This recipe brings that same warmth and joy to your home, allowing you to create memories with your loved ones over a batch of homemade donuts.
Ingredients
For the Donuts:
2 1/4 cups (255 grams) cake flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup (100 grams) sugar
2 tablespoons (29 grams) butter, at room temperature
2 large egg yolks
1/2 cup (113 grams) sour cream
Canola oil, for frying
For the Glaze:
3 1/2 cups (350 grams) powdered sugar, sifted
1 1/2 teaspoons corn syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup hot water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Donut Dough
Sift Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, salt, and ground nutmeg. Sifting ensures that all the dry ingredients are well combined and free of lumps.
Beat Butter and Sugar: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat 2 tablespoons of butter and 1/2 cup of sugar together until the mixture resembles sandy crumbs. This typically takes about 2-3 minutes on medium speed.
Add Egg Yolks: Add the 2 large egg yolks to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and thick, which should take another 2-3 minutes.
Combine with Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream: Add the dry ingredients to the mixing bowl in three additions, alternating with the 1/2 cup of sour cream. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined after each addition. The dough will be sticky.
Chill the Dough: Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 1 hour. Chilling helps to firm up the dough, making it easier to handle and shape.
Step 2: Shape the Donuts
Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has chilled, turn it out onto a well-floured surface. Roll the dough out to about 1/2 inch thickness.
Cut Out Donuts: Use a donut cutter or two differently sized biscuit cutters to cut out as many donuts and donut holes as possible. Dip the cutters into flour as necessary to prevent sticking. You should get about 12 donuts and accompanying holes.
Step 3: Fry the Donuts
Heat the Oil: Pour about 2 inches of canola oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or a deep fryer. Attach a deep-fry thermometer and heat the oil to 325°F (163°C). Maintaining the correct temperature is crucial for achieving perfectly fried donuts.
Fry the Donuts: Carefully place a few donuts into the hot oil, being sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry the donuts for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to turn them halfway through the frying time.
Drain the Donuts: Once fried, transfer the donuts to a paper bag or a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
Prepare the Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 1/2 cups of powdered sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons of corn syrup, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/3 cup of hot water. Whisk until the glaze is smooth and well combined.
Glaze the Donuts: While the donuts are still warm, immerse each donut into the glaze. Ensure that each donut is thoroughly coated. Place the glazed donuts on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to catch any excess glaze.
Set the Glaze: Allow the glazed donuts to sit for about 20 minutes, or until the glaze has set and hardened slightly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Donuts: The donuts are best served the day they are made for optimal freshness and flavor. However, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days if necessary.
Enjoy: Indulge in the delightful, homemade Old Fashioned Sour Cream Cake Donuts. Share them with family and friends, or savor them with a cup of coffee or tea.
Variations and Substitutions
Spiced Donuts: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or allspice to the dry ingredients for a different flavor profile.
Chocolate Glaze: Substitute the vanilla glaze with a chocolate glaze by mixing powdered sugar with cocoa powder and a bit of milk.
Fruit-Flavored: Add a tablespoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a citrus twist.
Healthier Option: Bake the donuts instead of frying. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the donuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Conclusion
Old Fashioned Sour Cream Cake Donuts are a timeless treat that brings a touch of nostalgia and warmth to any occasion. The tender, cake-like texture combined with the sweet, slightly tangy glaze makes these donuts a standout. The process of making them from scratch, from mixing the dough to frying and glazing, is both rewarding and enjoyable.
These donuts are not only delicious but also versatile. With a few simple variations, you can customize them to suit different tastes and preferences. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the fryer or shared with loved ones over a cup of coffee, these donuts are sure to delight.
In summary, this recipe is appealing and enjoyable because it transforms simple ingredients into a delicious, comforting treat. The detailed instructions ensure that even novice bakers can achieve great results. So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and savor the homemade goodness of Old Fashioned Sour Cream Cake Donuts.
