Sour Cream Donuts Recipe – Soft, Glazed, and Made the Old-Fashioned Way

Benefits and Advantages of Sour Cream Glazed Donuts

Sour cream glazed donuts offer a delightful combination of flavor and texture that makes them stand out among traditional donuts. One of the primary benefits of this recipe is its ease of preparation, allowing even novice bakers to achieve bakery-quality results with minimal effort. The use of sour cream in the glaze adds moisture and a subtle tang, enhancing the overall taste and creating a unique, rich glaze that complements the donut’s soft interior. Additionally, sour cream contains beneficial probiotics which may contribute to digestive health, making this indulgent treat a slightly healthier choice compared to other glazed pastries. This recipe’s versatility accommodates various dietary preferences by allowing substitutions without compromising flavor or texture. Altogether, sour cream glazed donuts combine convenience, deliciousness, and a touch of nutritional benefit, ensuring they are a favorite for both everyday enjoyment and special occasions.

Essential Ingredients for Sour Cream Glazed Donuts

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (gluten-free flour can be substituted for a gluten-sensitive diet)
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (vegan sour cream alternative available)
  • 2 large eggs (replaceable with flax eggs for vegan options)
  • 1/4 cup melted butter or coconut oil (for dairy-free)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons sour cream or plant-based yogurt
  • A splash of vanilla extract

Each ingredient serves a purpose: flour forms the base, leavening agents help the donuts rise, sour cream adds moisture and tanginess, and eggs bind the mixture. Vegan, gluten-free, and low-calorie ingredient alternatives ensure that this recipe is adaptable for different dietary requirements while maintaining the luscious taste of sour cream glazed donuts.


Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Sour Cream Glazed Donuts

Customizing sour cream glazed donuts to fit various dietary needs is straightforward with thoughtful substitutions. For those following a vegan lifestyle, substitute eggs with flax or chia eggs, and replace dairy sour cream with plant-based alternatives such as coconut or cashew sour cream. Gluten-intolerant individuals can use gluten-free flour blends that maintain the donut’s soft texture. To reduce calories, swap regular sugar for natural sweeteners like stevia or erythritol, and use light sour cream or low-fat yogurt in the glaze. Additionally, coconut oil can replace butter for dairy-free or paleo diets without sacrificing richness. When adjusting for allergies or sensitivities, consider nut-free sour cream alternatives and ensure all ingredients meet specific dietary restrictions. These substitutions maintain the essence and flavor of sour cream glazed donuts while offering flexibility for a variety of nutritional needs or ingredient availabilities.

How to Prepare the Perfect Sour Cream Glazed Donuts: Step-by-Step Guide

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. For gluten-free adaptations, use an appropriate gluten-free flour blend here.
  2. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs (or flax eggs for vegan version), sour cream, melted butter or coconut oil, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
  3. Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until a smooth, consistent dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the donuts tender.
  4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch thickness, then cut donut shapes using a donut cutter or two round cutters of different sizes.
  5. Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the donuts in batches, turning once, for about 1-2 minutes per side or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to paper towels to drain excess oil.
  6. Prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth and shiny. Adjust consistency by adding more powdered sugar or sour cream as needed.
  7. Dip each cooled donut into the glaze, allowing excess to drip off, then place on a rack to set. This step can be adapted to accommodate dairy-free or vegan needs by using appropriate glaze substitutes.
  8. Let the glaze set before serving to ensure a perfect texture and flavor combination. Enjoy your freshly made sour cream glazed donuts warm or at room temperature for the best experience.
sour cream glazed donuts

Advanced Tips and Variations

To craft the perfect sour cream glazed donuts, consider a few expert tips and creative variations. Start by chilling the dough well before shaping, which helps maintain the donuts’ form during frying and contributes to a tender texture. Incorporate a pinch of warm spices like nutmeg or cinnamon into the dough for added aroma and subtle warmth that complements the tangy glaze.

For variety, infuse your glaze with flavors such as lemon zest or vanilla bean to add complexity. Using alternative sour cream options like coconut cream or almond-based sour cream enables dairy-free versions without sacrificing moisture or tang. Although traditional frying yields a classic crispy exterior with a soft center, baked variations can be attempted for a lighter result baking at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes but expect a different texture.

Experiment with toppings by sprinkling crushed nuts, toasted coconut, or colorful sprinkles on the glaze before it sets to enhance both flavor and visual charm. These options personalize your donuts for any occasion or family preference, while retaining the luscious balance of soft interior and sweet, tangy glaze.

These advanced tips and variations keep your sour cream glazed donuts exciting, adaptable, and consistently delicious.

How to Store Sour Cream Glazed Donuts: Best Practices

Maintaining the freshness of sour cream glazed donuts depends on proper storage techniques. For short-term enjoyment, keep the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Avoid refrigeration if possible, as it may dry out the delicate crumb and cause the glaze to lose its signature texture.

If longer storage is necessary, refrigerate the donuts, wrapped carefully in plastic wrap or a container to prevent drying. They can stay fresh for up to one week in the fridge but may firm up slightly.

For extended storage, freeze the donuts individually on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe airtight container. Thaw at room temperature before serving, and if desired, warm briefly in the oven or microwave to refresh the soft texture and glaze shine.

Ensure that glazed donuts do not touch packaging surfaces directly to preserve the glaze finish and prevent sticking. These storage tips preserve the moist, tender interior and bright glaze that defines sour cream glazed donuts.

Nutritional Value of Sour Cream Glazed Donuts

Nutrient Approximate Amount per Donut
Calories 250-300 kcal
Total Fat 12-15 g
Saturated Fat 5-7 g
Protein 4-6 g
Carbohydrates 30-40 g
Sugar 15-20 g
Calcium 50-70 mg
Iron 1-1.5 mg
sour cream glazed donuts

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Sour Cream Glazed Donuts

Can I prepare sour cream donut dough ahead of time and store it before frying?

Yes, sour cream donut dough can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator. It’s best to chill the dough twice: once before cutting into donuts (at least 60 minutes) and again for at least 30 minutes after cutting. You can keep the dough or un-fried cut donuts refrigerated for up to three days before frying. Avoid freezing after frying, as texture and flavor may suffer.

What’s the best way to know when the oil is at the right temperature to fry sour cream glazed donuts?

Heat the oil to about 375°F (190°C). To test, drop a small piece of dough into the oil—if it rises quickly with bubbling around the edges and turns golden in 2 to 3 minutes, the oil is ready. If it browns too fast, lower the temperature; if it takes longer, increase the heat. Proper temperature prevents greasy or undercooked donuts.

Can I bake sour cream glazed donuts instead of frying them?

Baking sour cream donut dough is not recommended for this recipe because it tends to produce drier, tougher donuts. This recipe is designed to be fried, which results in a tender interior and crisp exterior. For baked donuts, look for recipes with thinner batters specifically formulated for the oven.

What are good alternatives if I don’t have a donut cutter to shape the donuts?

You can use a 3-inch biscuit or cookie cutter to cut the outer ring of the donut. For the center hole, a smaller cutter such as a piping tip, bottle cap, or even the rim of a drinking glass works well. A sharp knife can be used carefully to cut the shapes if no round cutters are available.

Is it possible to make sour cream glazed donuts in an air fryer?

Some home cooks have reported success air frying these donuts, but it hasn’t been extensively tested. If trying, use a light spray of oil on the donuts and cook at around 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes per side, checking frequently to avoid overcooking. Results may vary, so experimenting and sharing your experience is helpful for others.
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Sour Cream Donuts Recipe – Soft, Glazed, and Made the Old-Fashioned Way


  • Author: Valentina Lewis
  • Total Time: 3 hours
  • Yield: 12 doughnuts 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

🍩 Relive the joy of classic donuts with this old-fashioned sour cream recipe that brings a soft, cakey delight to your day.
🥛 Perfect for indulging in a homemade treat, these glazed donuts pair beautifully with a morning coffee or afternoon tea.


Ingredients

Scale

2 1/4 cups (255 grams) cake flour (or all-purpose flour combined with 1/4 cup cornstarch)
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
2 tablespoons (29 grams) unsalted butter, at cool room temperature
2 large egg yolks (or 1 large egg plus 1 egg yolk), at room temperature
1/2 to 2/3 cup (113 to 150 grams) full-fat sour cream, at room temperature
Canola oil or other high smoke point oil for frying (about 2 inches depth)

Glaze:
3 to 3 1/2 cups (300 to 350 grams) powdered sugar, sifted
1/3 cup (80 ml) hot water or milk
1 1/2 teaspoons corn syrup (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)


Instructions

1. Sift together cake flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and baking soda (if using) in a bowl.
2. In a stand mixer with paddle attachment, beat butter and sugar until combined.
3. Add egg yolks and beat until mixture lightens in color and thickens.
4. On low speed, add dry ingredients alternately with sour cream, mixing just until combined.
5. Cover dough and chill for at least 1 hour, up to 2 days.
6. Roll dough on a floured surface to 1/2 inch thickness and cut with a doughnut cutter.
7. Chill cut doughnuts for 30 minutes.
8. Heat oil to 350°F to 360°F in a deep pot.
9. Fry doughnuts in small batches, flipping once, until golden brown, 1.5 to 2 minutes per side.
10. Drain on a wire rack over paper towels.
11. Prepare glaze by mixing powdered sugar, corn syrup, salt, vanilla, and hot water/milk until smooth.
12. Dip warm doughnuts in glaze, allowing excess to drip before serving.

Notes

🧑‍🍳 Accurately weigh ingredients for consistent dough texture.
🥶 Keep dough and tools chilled for easier handling and cutting.
🌡️ Use a thermometer to maintain proper frying temperature and avoid greasy donuts.

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Chilling Time: 2 hours
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 doughnut
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 28g
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: Sour Cream Donuts, Old-Fashioned Donuts, Glazed Donuts, Homemade Doughnuts

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