Cake Doughnuts

Lightly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg. Preparation time is short and well worth the effort.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 2

Cook Time 15

Total Time 2 15

Course lunch/dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 16 people

Calories 1017.9 kcal

Equipment

1 Large Mixing Bowl
1 Deep Heavy Skillet or Deep-Fryer Capable of holding 2 quarts of oil safely
1 Doughnut Cutters 3-inch round cutter and a smaller cutter for holes
1 Rolling Pin
1 Large Resealable Bag For coating doughnuts

Ingredients

Main

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup white sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 cup milk
1 egg beaten
¼ cup butter melted and cooled
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 quarts oil for deep frying
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ cup white sugar

Instructions

In a large bowl, stir together the flour, 1/2 cup sugar, baking powder, salt, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and nutmeg. Make a well in the center and pour in the milk, egg, butter, and vanilla. Mix until well blended. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour.
Heat oil in a deep heavy skillet or deep-fryer to 370 degrees F (185 degrees C). On a floured board, roll chilled dough out to 1/2 inch thickness. Use a 3 inch round cutter to cut out doughnuts. Use a smaller cutter to cut holes from center. If you do not have a small cutter, use the mouth of a bottle.
Fry doughnuts in hot oil until golden brown, turning once. Remove from oil to drain on paper plates. Combine the remaining 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/2 cup sugar in a large resealable bag. Place a few warm donuts into the bag at a time, seal and shake to coat.

Notes

Maintaining the precise oil temperature of 370°F (185°C) is paramount for perfectly cooked doughnuts; use a reliable thermometer to avoid greasy or undercooked results. Avoid overworking the dough to ensure a tender, light crumb. The refrigeration step is crucial for dough manageability and achieving optimal texture. For enhanced flavor, a touch of fresh grated nutmeg and a pinch of cardamom can elevate the spice profile. Consider a simple vanilla bean glaze or a chocolate ganache for a gourmet finish, applied once the doughnuts are slightly cooled but still warm.