When it comes to homemade treats, there’s nothing quite like the joy of bringing fresh donuts to the table. Picture this: a warm, fluffy Glazed Sourdough Donut, golden brown and perfectly sweet, with just a whisper of tang from the sourdough starter. It’s a delightful aroma that fills the kitchen and makes any gathering feel a little more special. I often find myself reaching for this recipe, especially when I want to impress family and friends without the fuss of complicated baking techniques.
Whether you prefer your donuts baked to perfection or fried to a crispy finish, this Sourdough Donut Recipe provides the best of both worlds. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll discover that making homemade donuts is not only possible but also incredibly fun. Plus, with adaptable options that cater to dairy-free diets, these treats are sure to please a crowd. So, let's dive into the art of donut making and create something truly irresistible!
Why Choose Sourdough Donut Recipe?
Deliciously Unique Flavor: The use of sourdough starter adds a delightful tang that sets these donuts apart from typical recipes.
Baked or Fried: Enjoy the versatility of both baking and frying options, catering to your mood and kitchen setup.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, even novice bakers can whip up these treats without stress.
Family-Friendly Fun: Involving loved ones in the process makes it a memorable activity, perfect for any gathering.
Dairy-Free Adaptations: With easy substitutions, everyone can indulge, regardless of dietary needs.
This Sourdough Donut Recipe transforms ordinary moments into sweet memories!
Glazed Sourdough Donut Ingredients
For the Dough
- 100% hydration sourdough starter (250g) - Provides the base for fermentation, enhancing flavor and texture; can use active starter or discard if healthy.
- Whole milk (115g) - Adds moisture and richness to the dough; substitute with almond or coconut milk for dairy-free options.
- Large egg - Binds the ingredients and enriches the dough; no suitable substitutes noted.
- Raw cane sugar (55g) - Adds sweetness; can substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Melted unsalted butter (50g) - Provides a rich flavor and moistness; substitute with melted coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Vanilla (3g) - Enhances the sweetness and depth of flavor; no substitutes necessary.
- Salt (4g) - Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor; essential for dough performance.
- Organic bread flour (290g) - Gives structure and a chewier texture; all-purpose flour can be substituted in a pinch.
For the Glaze
- Powdered sugar - For glazing; adds sweetness to the finished donut, making this Sourdough Donut Recipe extra special.
- Milk - Needed for mixing with powdered sugar until smooth; adjust amount for desired consistency.
For Frying
- Coconut oil (for frying, approx. 1-3 cups) - Provides a frying medium for donuts; can substitute with any neutral oil.
Get ready to bring the joy of fresh homemade Glazed Sourdough Donuts into your kitchen!
How to Make Sourdough Donut Recipe
Whisk Together: In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter and milk until fully dissolved. Then, add the egg, raw cane sugar, melted butter, and vanilla, stirring until everything is well mixed.
Sift and Rest: Sift in the flour and salt, mixing until you have a smooth dough without lumps. Cover the bowl and let the dough rest for about 30 minutes, allowing it to relax.
Knead the Dough: If using a stand mixer, knead the dough on medium speed for 12 minutes until it pulls away from the sides. Otherwise, use stretch and folds by hand until the dough becomes smooth.
Let It Rise: Cover the dough and let it rise overnight at room temperature for 8-10 hours until it has doubled in size, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma!
Shape the Donuts: Roll out the risen dough on a floured surface to a thickness of 1/2 inch. Cut into donut shapes, and allow them to rise again for 1-2 hours for that perfect fluffy texture.
Bake or Fry: For baked donuts, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake for 13-15 minutes. For fried donuts, heat the oil to 350°F (180°C) and fry until they are golden, flipping halfway through for even browning.
Prepare the Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with milk until smooth. Dip the cooled donuts in the glaze and let them set for a few minutes for that irresistible finish!
Optional: Drizzle melted chocolate over the glazed donuts for an extra special treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Glazed Sourdough Donuts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by refrigerating it after the initial rise. Simply follow the recipe through the shaping step and then cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap, keeping it in the fridge to slow fermentation. When you’re ready to enjoy them, remove the dough, let it come to room temperature, and allow it to rise for 1-2 hours before baking or frying. This way, you'll have fresh, fluffy donuts with minimal effort on the day you serve them, making your morning routine a little sweeter!
How to Store and Freeze Sourdough Donut Recipe
Room Temperature: Keep these donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their softness and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer, store glazed donuts in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just be aware that refrigeration may slightly alter their texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unglazed donuts in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before glazing to enjoy fresh.
Reheating: To revive leftover donuts, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for a few minutes for that freshly baked taste again!
Variations of Sourdough Donut Recipe
Get creative and tailor these donuts to suit your taste with fun and exciting twists!
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute whole milk with almond or coconut milk and melted butter with coconut oil for fabulous dairy-free donuts. They maintain the same delightful texture and flavor!
Flavored Glazes: Try infusing the glaze with vanilla, chocolate, or maple flavoring for a sweet, unique twist. Each option brings its warm notes, sure to impress!
Fillings Galore: Pipe in your favorite fillings, like fruit jam or creamy custard, after frying or baking. It's a surprise in every bite that elevates your donuts to a new level of deliciousness.
Whole Wheat Flour: Swap organic bread flour for whole wheat flour to add nuttiness and extra health benefits. You’ll get a wonderfully wholesome flavor without sacrificing fluffiness.
Spiced Donuts: Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a cozy, aromatic note. These simple adjustments create a lovely warmth, perfect for any occasion.
Puffier Texture: For extra puffy donuts, consider reducing the amount of sugar slightly and adding a tablespoon of baking powder. This gives your donuts an airy lift while keeping that sourdough charm!
Citrus Zing: Add zest from lemons or oranges into the dough for a bright, refreshing flavor. The citrus will cut through the sweetness and add an unforgettable twist.
Heat It Up: Incorporate a hint of cayenne or chili powder in the glaze or dough for a spicy kick. It's a daring choice that creates an exciting contrast to all that sweetness!
Expert Tips for Sourdough Donut Recipe
- Prevent Sticking: Use plenty of flour while rolling out the dough to avoid sticking to the surface, ensuring smooth cutting.
- Knead Wisely: If using a stand mixer, knead for 12 minutes only once. Over-kneading can lead to tough donuts, which is a common mistake.
- Warm Proofing: For a quicker rise, place your covered dough in a warm oven (170°F) for about 15 minutes-speeding up the process without compromising flavor.
- Slow Fermentation: If you're tight on time, consider cold proofing the dough in the fridge to slow fermentation and enhance flavor development.
- Flexible Glazing: Experiment with different glaze flavors, like chocolate or maple, to give your Sourdough Donut Recipe a unique twist and please everyone's palate.
What to Serve with Sourdough Donut Recipe?
Imagine hosting a cozy gathering where sweet and savory delights complement each other, enhancing the experience of your stunning homemade donuts.
Fresh Fruit Salad:
A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing burst of flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness of your donuts.Rich Coffee:
The deep flavors of a well-brewed coffee provide a comforting contrast to the soft and fluffy texture of the donuts, making every bite even more enjoyable.Maple Bacon:
The savory, slightly smoky taste of crispy bacon drizzled with maple syrup pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the donuts, creating a delightful flavor contrast.Vanilla Ice Cream:
A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream elevates the experience, giving a delightful contrast that cools down the warm, sugary treat.Homemade Whipped Cream:
Light and airy whipped cream can be dolloped on top of the donuts for an indulgent touch that's both luxurious and simple.Sparkling Lemonade:
The zesty fizz of lemonade refreshes the palate and complements the rich flavor of glazed donuts, perfect for warm days or cheerful brunch gatherings.
Indulging in these pairings will transform your Sourdough Donut Recipe into a celebration of flavors!
Sourdough Donut Recipe Storage and Freezing FAQs
How should I store my glazed sourdough donuts?
To keep your donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their softness and delightful flavor, allowing you to enjoy them warm, just like when they were freshly made!
Can I refrigerate the donuts?
Yes, you can store glazed donuts in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. However, keep in mind that while refrigeration will extend their shelf life, it may slightly alter the texture, making them a bit denser. If you do choose this method, allow them to come to room temperature before savoring.
What's the best way to freeze sourdough donuts?
Absolutely! To freeze your unglazed sourdough donuts, place them in an airtight container, ensuring they’re well spaced to avoid sticking, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature before glazing.
How do I reheat leftover donuts to make them taste fresh again?
To give leftover donuts a little love, warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or for a crispy outer layer, place them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for a few minutes. This revitalizes their soft and fluffy texture, bringing back the delicious fresh flavor!
Can I substitute ingredients in the glaze for dietary needs?
Absolutely! If you're looking for dairy-free options, use a nut milk or a dairy-free milk alternative in your glaze. Just make sure to adjust the amount to achieve your desired consistency, as different milks may yield slightly different results.
How should I handle leftover donuts if my pet is interested?
It's best to keep sugary treats like donuts away from pets, as many ingredients, especially chocolate and certain sweeteners, can be harmful to them. Offer them safe snacks instead, and enjoy the donuts yourself!
Irresistibly Fluffy: The Ultimate Sourdough Donut Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter and milk until fully dissolved. Then, add the egg, raw cane sugar, melted butter, and vanilla, stirring until everything is well mixed.
- Sift in the flour and salt, mixing until you have a smooth dough without lumps. Cover the bowl and let the dough rest for about 30 minutes.
- If using a stand mixer, knead the dough on medium speed for 12 minutes until it pulls away from the sides. Otherwise, use stretch and folds by hand until the dough becomes smooth.
- Cover the dough and let it rise overnight at room temperature for 8-10 hours until it has doubled in size.
- Roll out the risen dough on a floured surface to a thickness of 1/2 inch. Cut into donut shapes, and allow them to rise again for 1-2 hours.
- For baked donuts, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake for 13-15 minutes. For fried donuts, heat the oil to 350°F (180°C) and fry until they are golden, flipping halfway through.
- Mix powdered sugar with milk until smooth. Dip the cooled donuts in the glaze and let them set for a few minutes.
Leave a Reply