Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Doughnuts

Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Doughnuts are a delightful treat that brings nostalgia to every bite. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, these doughnuts are soft, glazed, and packed with the rich flavors of sour cream and nutmeg. Their tender texture and delicious glaze make them irresistible for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual get-togethers with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The unique combination of sour cream and nutmeg gives these doughnuts a distinct taste that stands out.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, you can whip up a batch of fresh doughnuts in no time.
• Customizable Glaze: Feel free to experiment with different flavors for the glaze to match your mood or occasion.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving something sweet, these doughnuts fit the bill.
• Homemade Goodness: Enjoy the satisfaction of creating delicious treats right in your own kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

To make Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Doughnuts, you will need some essential tools to ensure smooth preparation and cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer with paddle attachment
• Doughnut cutter or biscuit cutters
• Heavy-bottomed pot
• Deep-fry thermometer
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer with paddle attachment: This makes mixing the dough easier and ensures a consistent texture.
• Heavy-bottomed pot: It helps maintain an even temperature while frying, preventing oil from cooling too quickly.
• Deep-fry thermometer: Accurate temperature readings are crucial for perfect frying results.

Ingredients

Soft, glazed old-fashioned doughnuts bursting with sour cream and nutmeg flavor.

For the Doughnuts

• 255 grams cake flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 100 grams sugar
• 29 grams butter, at cool room temperature
• 2 large egg yolks
• 113 grams sour cream
• Canola oil, for frying

For the Glaze

• 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

How to Make Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Doughnuts

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg. This ensures an even distribution of ingredients and helps create light and fluffy doughnuts.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter and sugar together until sandy. Add the egg yolks and mix until light and thick. This process adds air into the mixture for better texture.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the dry ingredients to the mixing bowl in three additions, alternating with the sour cream; begin and end with flour. Mix on low speed for about 30 seconds until smooth but slightly sticky.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for one hour or until firm. Chilling helps improve handling during rolling out.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter or two differently sized biscuit cutters to cut out as many donuts as possible. Refrigerate while heating oil.

Step 6: Heat Oil

Pour two inches of canola oil into a heavy-bottomed pot with a deep-fry thermometer attached. Heat oil to 325°F (163°C) for optimal frying conditions.

Step 7: Fry the Doughnuts

Fry the doughnuts in batches. Cook each side for about two minutes or until golden brown. Let them drain on paper bags to soak up excess grease afterward.

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze

In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, corn syrup, salt, vanilla extract, and hot water until smooth. This will create a delicious glaze for your doughnuts.

Step 9: Glaze Each Doughnut

Immerse each fried doughnut into the glaze before placing them on a wire rack above a sheet pan to catch excess glaze. Let sit for about 20 minutes until set.

With these steps completed, you’ll have perfectly crafted Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Doughnuts ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Doughnuts

Old-fashioned sour cream doughnuts are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these doughnuts are versatile and delicious.

Afternoon Tea

• Pair your doughnuts with a selection of teas for a delightful afternoon break. Choose herbal or black teas to complement the sweet flavors of the glaze.

Coffee Companion

• Enjoy these doughnuts with a fresh cup of coffee. The rich flavors of dark roast coffee balance perfectly with the sweetness of the glazed doughnuts.

Dessert Platter

• Arrange old-fashioned sour cream doughnuts on a dessert platter alongside other sweets. This makes for a beautiful presentation at gatherings or parties.

Breakfast Treat

• Serve these doughnuts as part of a hearty breakfast spread. They can be paired with fruits and yogurt for a balanced meal.

Ice Cream Delight

• Top warm doughnuts with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Drizzle some chocolate sauce for added richness.

How to Perfect Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Doughnuts

Perfecting old-fashioned sour cream doughnuts is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your doughnuts turn out amazing every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh baking powder and eggs will enhance flavor and texture, leading to fluffier doughnuts.
• Chill the dough: Chilling helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll out and cut into shapes without sticking.
• Maintain oil temperature: Keep the frying oil at 325°F consistently for even cooking. A thermometer is crucial to avoid greasy or undercooked doughnuts.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot: Fry only a few doughnuts at a time to maintain oil temperature and achieve perfect golden-brown color.
• Sift powdered sugar: Sifting ensures no lumps in your glaze, resulting in a smooth finish that coats each doughnut beautifully.
• Allow glaze to set: Let the glazed doughnuts sit on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before serving so the glaze can harden slightly.

Best Side Dishes for Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Doughnuts

Old-fashioned sour cream doughnuts pair well with various side dishes, enhancing your overall snack experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the doughnuts.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that complements indulgence with healthiness.
3. Bacon Strips: Crispy bacon offers a savory contrast to sweet doughnuts, making it an irresistible combination.
4. Cheese Platter: Serve assorted cheeses alongside nuts and dried fruits for an upscale twist on traditional snacking.
5. Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of hot chocolate creates a cozy pairing, especially during colder months.
6. Nut Mix: A mix of nuts provides crunch and protein, balancing out the sweetness while offering healthy fats.

Enjoy these suggestions as you savor your delicious old-fashioned sour cream doughnuts!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Doughnuts can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not measuring the flour correctly: Using too much flour can lead to dense doughnuts. Always spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can result in tough doughnuts. Mix until just combined to keep them light and fluffy.
• Frying at the wrong temperature: If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before cooking through. Use a thermometer to maintain a steady temperature around 325°F.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough helps it firm up and makes it easier to handle. Don’t skip this step or you may end up with misshaped doughnuts.
• Not allowing glaze to set: If you rush serving, the glaze won’t have time to firm up. Let your glazed doughnuts sit for at least 20 minutes before serving.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Doughnuts

• Freeze unglazed doughnuts for up to 2 months.
• Wrap each doughnut tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Doughnuts

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place doughnuts on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds per doughnut. Be cautious not to overheat, as they can become tough.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Doughnuts lighter?

To achieve lighter doughnuts, be careful not to overmix your batter and ensure you chill the dough properly before frying.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

You can use plain yogurt or buttermilk as a substitute for sour cream, but note that this may slightly alter the flavor.

Can I add flavors to my Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Doughnuts?

Yes! You can incorporate spices like cinnamon or even citrus zest for added flavor variations.

How should I store my glazed Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Doughnuts?

Store glazed doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness.

Final Thoughts

These Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Doughnuts are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. Their soft texture and rich flavor make them a perfect treat for any occasion. Feel free to customize your glaze or add unique toppings like sprinkles or nuts. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these delightful homemade treats!