Old Fashioned Doughnuts: they’re not just a treat, they’re a timeless classic. With their signature cracked surface and cakey interior, these doughnuts offer a unique taste and texture that sets them apart. This guide dives deep into the world of old fashioned doughnuts, exploring their distinct characteristics, providing a foolproof recipe, and offering expert tips for achieving perfect results every time.
What Makes an Old Fashioned Doughnut So Special?
Old fashioned doughnuts distinguish themselves from other varieties through their unique craggy exterior and dense, yet tender crumb. This texture is achieved by using a specific batter and frying technique. Unlike yeast doughnuts, which are light and airy, old fashioned doughnuts rely on baking powder for leavening, creating a more compact and moist final product. The sour cream in this recipe adds a subtle tang and richness that elevates the flavor profile.
Old Fashioned Doughnuts vs. Cake Doughnuts: What’s the Difference?
While both old fashioned and cake doughnuts use baking powder as a leavening agent, the key difference lies in their texture and appearance. Cake doughnuts typically have a smooth, uniform surface and a softer interior. Old fashioned doughnuts, on the other hand, boast a characteristic cracked, crispy exterior and a denser, chewier inside. This iconic crackled surface is a result of the dough’s reaction to the hot oil during frying.
Crafting the Perfect Old Fashioned Doughnut: A Step-by-Step Guide
This recipe replaces the commonly used cake flour with a simple combination of all-purpose flour and cornstarch, making it accessible for home bakers of all levels.
Ingredients:
- Dry Ingredients: All-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, ground nutmeg.
- Wet Ingredients: Granulated sugar, unsalted butter (room temperature), egg yolks, sour cream, vanilla extract.
- Frying: Canola oil.
- Glaze: Powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough: Whisk together the dry ingredients. Cream together the butter and sugar, then incorporate the egg yolks, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate the dough for at least one hour to allow it to firm up. This will make it easier to handle.
- Shape the Doughnuts: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ½-inch thickness. Use a 3-inch round cutter to cut out the doughnuts and a smaller cutter (or a piping tip) to create the center holes.
- Fry to Golden Perfection: Heat canola oil to 325°F (163°C). Carefully place a few doughnuts into the hot oil, frying for 1 ½ – 2 minutes per side, until golden brown. Use a thermometer to ensure consistent oil temperature.
- Drain and Glaze: Remove the doughnuts from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil. Let them cool slightly before dipping in a simple glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
Tips for Doughnut Success:
- Fresh Oil is Key: Use fresh oil for frying to ensure the best flavor.
- Temperature Control: Maintain a consistent oil temperature of 325°F (163°C) for evenly cooked doughnuts. A candy thermometer is essential for this.
- Proper Tools: Use a spider strainer or slotted spoon for safely removing doughnuts from the hot oil. A chopstick or skewer can be helpful for flipping.
- Cooling Before Glazing: Allow the doughnuts to cool slightly before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting.
Storing Your Old Fashioned Doughnuts:
Store leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Enjoy Your Homemade Treats!
With their irresistible charm and delightful flavor, old fashioned doughnuts are a treat that everyone will love. Follow this guide and enjoy the satisfaction of making these classic doughnuts from scratch.
