Classic Doughnuts Recipe

These classic doughnuts are a delightful treat that brings a touch of nostalgia to any occasion. With a simple batter and easy-to-follow steps, you can enjoy fresh, homemade doughnuts that are perfectly golden brown. Whether you bake them in the oven or use a doughnut maker, these doughnuts are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Enhance them with a cinnamon-sugar coating for a delicious finish that will make everyone smile.

Preparation Time

  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Cook time: 15 minutes (oven) or 3 minutes (doughnut maker)
  • Total time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

  • Dry Ingredients:
    • 200 g (1 ½ cups) cake flour
    • 125 g (½ cup) white sugar
    • 2 teaspoons baking powder
    • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Wet Ingredients:
    • 120 ml (½ cup) milk
    • 50 g (3 ½ tablespoons) melted butter
    • ½ teaspoon vanilla essence
    • 1 large egg
  • For Cinnamon-Sugar Coating (optional):
    • 100 g (½ cup) white sugar
    • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • 50 g (3 ½ tablespoons) melted butter

Directions

  • Preheat:
    • Oven: Preheat to 180°C (355°F). Prepare doughnut pans by spraying with non-stick spray.
    • Doughnut Maker: Preheat the doughnut maker for 5 minutes.
  • Mix Dry Ingredients:
    • In a large bowl, whisk together the cake flour, white sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  • Combine Wet Ingredients:
    • Add milk, melted butter, vanilla essence, and egg to the dry ingredients. Whisk until the batter is thick and smooth.
  • Bake:
    • Oven: Pour the batter into the doughnut pans and bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown.
    • Doughnut Maker: Spoon the batter into the doughnut maker and cook for 3 minutes, or until golden brown.
  • Cool and Coat:
    • Allow the doughnuts to cool before decorating.
    • Cinnamon-Sugar Coating: Mix 100 g (½ cup) white sugar with ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon. Dip each doughnut in melted butter, then into the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Allow to dry.

Serving Suggestions

  • Enjoy these doughnuts fresh with a cup of coffee or tea.
  • Serve with a side of fruit or a dollop of jam for added flavor.

Cooking Tips

  • Ensure the doughnut batter is not too runny; it should be thick to hold its shape during baking.
  • Use a piping bag to fill the doughnut pans for a cleaner process.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Cake Flour: Provides a light, tender crumb.
  • Milk and Butter: Add richness and flavor.
  • Cinnamon: Offers a warm, aromatic spice.

Dietary Information

  • Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
  • Not suitable for gluten-free diets: This recipe uses regular cake flour.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and steps make these doughnuts a breeze to make at home.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or glazes to personalize your doughnuts.
  • Deliciously Classic: Enjoy the timeless flavor of freshly baked doughnuts with a delightful cinnamon-sugar coating.

Conclusion

These classic doughnuts are a fantastic treat that combines simplicity with delicious flavor. Whether baked in the oven or made in a doughnut maker, they offer a delightful experience that’s perfect for any time of day. Enjoy the warm, golden-brown doughnuts fresh from the oven, and savor every bite of this sweet, nostalgic treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use a different type of flour?
    You can use all-purpose flour, but cake flour gives a lighter texture.
  2. Can I use almond or soy milk instead of regular milk?
    Yes, you can substitute almond or soy milk, though the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
  3. How do I know when the doughnuts are done baking?
    They should be golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
  4. Can I freeze these doughnuts?
    Yes, you can freeze them. Wrap each doughnut in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
  5. How can I make these doughnuts more flavorful?
    Add chocolate chips, nuts, or flavored extracts to the batter for extra flavor.
  6. What if I don’t have a doughnut pan or maker?
    You can use a muffin pan as an alternative, though the shape will be different.
  7. Can I use a different type of sugar for the coating?
    Yes, you can use brown sugar or powdered sugar for different coating options.
  8. How long should I let the doughnuts cool before coating?
    Allow them to cool for about 10 minutes before coating to ensure the coating sticks properly.
  9. Can I use non-dairy butter instead of regular butter?
    Yes, you can use non-dairy butter for a dairy-free version.
  10. How do I store leftover doughnuts?
    Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.