Sourdough doughnuts are a delightful twist on the traditional treat, combining the tangy flavor of sourdough with the sweetness of classic donuts. These treats are fluffy, golden brown, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re brewing coffee for breakfast or hosting a weekend brunch, these doughnuts will surely impress your family and friends.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 12 doughnuts
Difficulty Level: Medium

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 210
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 120mg

Why Make This Sourdough Doughnuts

Sourdough doughnuts not only offer a unique flavor profile but also benefit from the natural fermentation process. This technique helps achieve a lighter texture while contributing probiotics to your treat, boosting your gut health! Plus, the tanginess of the sourdough balances well with the sweetness, making each bite an enjoyable experience. They’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without being overwhelmingly sugary!

How to Make Sourdough Doughnuts

Ingredients:

1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup milk
2 large eggs
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 cup melted butter
Vegetable oil for frying
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Directions:

### Step 1: Preparation

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, sugar, milk, and eggs. Beat them together until well combined, ensuring the mixture is smooth and cohesive.

### Step 2: Mixing

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, nutmeg, and baking soda. Once your dry ingredients are thoroughly mixed, gradually add them to the wet mixture, stirring until a cohesive dough forms.

### Step 3: Kneading

Add the melted butter to the dough. Knead the dough on a floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes. This is important for achieving the soft texture of your doughnuts!

### Step 4: Rising

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 2-3 hours or until it has doubled in size. This rising time allows the flavors to develop and gives the doughnuts their characteristic lightness.

### Step 5: Shaping

Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/2 inch thickness and use a doughnut cutter or a round cutter to cut out doughnut shapes. Make sure to flour your cutter to prevent sticking.

### Step 6: Frying

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 375°F (190°C). Fry the doughnuts in batches until they turn golden brown, about 1-2 minutes on each side. Be careful not to overcrowd the pot!

### Step 7: Draining and Dusting

Remove the doughnuts from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Dust with powdered sugar while still warm if desired for that extra touch of sweetness.

### Step 8: Serving

Enjoy your sourdough doughnuts warm. They are perfect on their own or paired with a cup of coffee or tea!

How to Serve Sourdough Doughnuts

Sourdough doughnuts are incredibly versatile. Serve them plain for a simple snack, or add a drizzle of chocolate or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a special touch. These doughnuts also pair fabulously with whipped cream or a fruit compote for a delightful dessert option!

How to Store Sourdough Doughnuts

If you have any leftovers, store your sourdough doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to bring back their fresh flavor!

Expert Tips for Perfect Sourdough Doughnuts

Ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly for the best results.
Avoid overmixing the dough to keep the texture light and fluffy.
Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking.

Delicious Variations

Glazed Sourdough Doughnuts: Dip the cooled doughnuts in a simple glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
Spiced Sourdough Doughnuts: Add spices like cinnamon or cloves to the dough for extra flavor.
Filled Doughnuts: After frying, fill the doughnuts with jam, cream, or custard using a piping bag.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my discard sourdough starter?
Yes, using sourdough discard can work, but active starter will yield softer doughnuts.
How do I know when the oil is ready for frying?
You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough; if it bubbles and rises to the surface, it’s ready.
What can I substitute for all-purpose flour?
You can use a gluten-free all-purpose blend if you need a gluten-free option, but the texture may vary.
How can I flavor the doughnuts?
Try adding vanilla extract, citrus zest, or flavored extracts to your wet ingredients.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the doughnuts at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, but they will have a different texture.

Conclusion

Making sourdough doughnuts is a rewarding endeavor that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Their comforting texture and tangy flavor make them a memorable treat for any occasion. So grab your sourdough starter and embark on this delicious journey! Your family and friends will thank you for it! Enjoy every bite and happy frying!