Homemade Sourdough Donuts: Light, Fluffy, and Irresistible
Is there anything better than a warm, homemade donut?
These sourdough donuts are a delightful combination of fluffy texture and subtle tang from sourdough. Perfect for weekend brunch or a cozy treat, they’re bound to become a household favorite!
Imagine biting into a freshly fried donut with a golden-brown exterior and a soft, airy interior. The tang from the sourdough complements the sweet glaze beautifully, creating a flavor that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Whether you enjoy them plain or topped with sprinkles, chocolate, or nuts, these donuts are as versatile as they are delicious. They bring a bakery-quality experience right to your kitchen, making them perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tangy and Sweet
These donuts offer a unique flavor that combines the tang of sourdough starter with the sugary finish of a glaze. The result is a balanced, delightful treat that stands out from ordinary donuts.
Perfect Texture
Every donut has a fluffy interior with a slight chew, encased in a crisp, golden exterior. This perfect combination of textures makes each bite irresistible.
Versatile and Customizable
Sourdough donuts can be customized to suit any occasion. Glaze them, dust them with powdered sugar, or add colorful sprinkles to make them festive and fun.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup active sourdough starter
- 1/2 cup milk (warm)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Oil for frying
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Yield |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 hours | 12 donuts |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix the Dough
Combine the sourdough starter, warm milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and nutmeg (if using) in a large bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
2. Add Flour and Knead
Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet mixture, stirring to form a soft dough. Knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 2–3 hours or until doubled in size.
4. Shape the Donuts
Roll the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two round cookie cutters to cut out the donut shapes. Re-roll scraps as needed.
5. Second Rise
Transfer the shaped donuts to a floured baking sheet. Cover them with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another hour.
6. Fry the Donuts
Heat oil in a heavy pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the donuts in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
7. Prepare the Glaze
Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk or sugar as needed.
8. Glaze the Donuts
While the donuts are still warm, dip each into the glaze, letting the excess drip off. Place on a wire rack to set.
Storage and Freezing
| Storage Method | How To |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly to refresh. |
| Freezing Baked Donuts | Place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw and warm before serving. |
| Freezing Dough | Freeze unshaped dough balls. Thaw, shape, and let rise before frying. |
FAQs
Can I Use Sourdough Discard?
Yes, sourdough discard works great! The flavor will be milder compared to using active starter, but it’s an excellent way to reduce waste.
What Oil Should I Use for Frying?
Neutral oils like canola, vegetable, or sunflower oil are ideal. They won’t interfere with the flavor of the donuts.
Can These Donuts Be Baked Instead of Fried?
Absolutely! Bake them at 375°F for 12–15 minutes. Brush the tops with melted butter before baking for a golden finish.
How Do I Keep the Donuts Fresh?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. A quick reheat in the microwave or oven will restore their soft texture.
Nutrition Information
| Calories | Fat | Protein | Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|
| 180 kcal | 8 g | 3 g | 24 g |
These sourdough donuts combine tangy, sweet flavors with a fluffy, light texture for the ultimate homemade treat. Perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!
