Thank you so much for stopping by—I’m thrilled to share this warm, deep-fried treat straight from my heart to yours! These Old Fashioned Cake Donuts bring nostalgia with every bite. If you’re as happy as I am to have you here, be sure to subscribe for more comforting recipes via email!
Overview of Recipe Content
This classic recipe is perfect for a cozy brunch, Sunday morning treat, or special dessert. Imagine a tender, cakey donut with a pinch of nutmeg, glazed to sweet perfection. You’ll love how they balance rich flavor without being overly sweet.
Why You’ll Love It
- Comforting texture: cakey yet light.
- Kid-friendly and nostalgic.
- Quick to make—no yeast, no proofing.
What It Tastes Like
A tender crumb with a gentle nutmeg warmth, wrapped in a smooth sugar glaze that gives a lovely sweet crisp.
Health/Nutritional Benefits
These are treats—not health food—but healthier than fried pastries with heavy glaze. They use minimal fat and are portion-controlled.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp salt
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
Tools Needed
- Donut pan (optional; classic shape via cutter)
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (or whisk)
- Baking sheet & cooling rack
- Piping bag or spoon for glaze
Substitutions & Add-ons
- Buttermilk ⎯ use milk + 1 tsp vinegar (sit 5 min)
- Butter ⎯ coconut oil (same quantity)
- Add-ins: cinnamon, nutmeg, or citrus zest
- Glaze options: maple, chocolate, cinnamon-sugar
How to Make Old Fashioned Cake Donuts
- Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C), grease donut pan or prepare cutter.
- In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine buttermilk, eggs, vanilla, and melted butter.
- Gently stir wet into dry until just combined—don’t overmix.
- Spoon batter into pan or roll and cut, about ¾ full.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges golden and center springs back.
- Cool slightly, then move to wire rack.
- Glaze: whisk powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Dip warm donuts, let excess drip.
- Let glaze set (~10 min) before enjoying—though warm ones are irresistible!
There’s something magical about the aroma soaring from the oven—I promise, you’re going to swoon.
What to Serve with Old Fashioned Cake Donuts
- Hot coffee or creamy latte
- Chilled milk (especially for kids!)
- Warm jam or fresh fruit on the side
- Pair with our Blueberry Buttermilk Pancakes for a brunch spread
- Sprinkle powdered sugar or add chopped nuts/glaze drizzle for extra charm
Tips for Making It Perfect
- Don’t overmix to avoid dense donuts.
- Fill pans evenly—use an ice cream scoop.
- Bake just until centers spring back—no browning on top.
- Cool briefly before glazing to prevent glaze melting into the donut.
Storage Instructions
- Room-temp: Store in airtight container, 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Up to 1 week—may dry slightly, but microwave 10 seconds before eating.
- Freeze: Individually wrap in plastic + foil, freeze up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
General Information
Old fashioned cake donuts are a nod to simpler times—easy, non-yeast treats perfected in home kitchens. With nutmeg’s fragrant hint, they’re especially lovely in fall, but joyful year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fry these instead of baking?
Yes—roll medium-thick, fry at 350 °F for ~30 sec per side, then drain.
Can I make batter ahead?
Yes—store in fridge up to 24 hrs. Blend again before using.
Why did my donuts sink?
Likely underbaked or overmixed. Bake just right and stir gently.
Can I skip the glaze?
Sure—toss warm donuts in cinnamon sugar or enjoy them plain.
Are these vegan?
Replace eggs with flax eggs and butter with coconut; but texture may vary slightly.
Conclusion
These Old Fashioned Cake Donuts are nostalgic, comforting, and delightfully easy. When you taste that tender crumb dipped in sweet glaze, you’re home. If you loved these, try my [Banana Bread Muffins] or [Classic Cinnamon Rolls] next—both share that cozy, homemade warmth.
Thank you for letting me into your kitchen—please leave a review or comment below! Snap a pic, tag me on Pinterest: poulefrecipe 💛
Nutritional Information
Approximate per donut (makes 12):
Calories: 180 | Fat: 6 g | Sat Fat: 3 g | Carbs: 28 g | Fiber: 0.5 g | Sugar: 14 g | Protein: 3 g
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Total Fat | 6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sugar | 14 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
Interactive Elements
I’d absolutely love your feedback! Leave a ⭐️ review and comment. Share your donut pics—pin them or tag me @poulefrecipe!
Print
Delightful Old Fashioned Cake Donuts: A Joyfully Scrumptious Recipe!
- Total Time: 22 mins
- Yield: 12 donuts 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Tender old fashioned cake donuts with nutmeg flavor, glazed to sweet perfection—nostalgic comfort in every bite!
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tsp salt
3/4 cup buttermilk
2 eggs, beaten
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare donut pan.
2. Whisk dry ingredients together.
3. Combine wet ingredients in a separate bowl.
4. Stir wet into dry until just combined.
5. Spoon batter into pan or shape and cut donuts.
6. Bake 10–12 minutes until golden.
7. Cool slightly then glaze.
8. Whisk glaze ingredients; dip donuts.
9. Allow glaze to set before serving.
Notes
Be gentle when mixing to keep donuts tender.
Use an ice cream scoop for evenly filled pans.
Store in airtight container; freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 12 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
