Description

There’s something uniquely special about a recipe that has been passed down through generations. Granny’s Doughnuts are more than just a delicious sweet treat; they represent a tradition, a connection to simpler times, and the comfort of home. These doughnuts, with their golden, crispy exterior and soft, tender interior, are the epitome of homemade goodness. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a weekend breakfast, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, these doughnuts are sure to bring joy and warmth to any occasion.

The beauty of Granny’s Doughnuts lies in their simplicity. Made with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, these doughnuts are a testament to the idea that sometimes, the most basic recipes can produce the most extraordinary results. The subtle spice of nutmeg, the richness of eggs and shortening, and the slight tang of sour milk come together to create a doughnut that’s both comforting and nostalgic. And with just a little bit of effort, you can bring this cherished family recipe into your own kitchen, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Ingredients

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 eggs
• 1 tablespoon shortening
• 1 cup sour milk (see note below)
• 6 cups flour
• Note: To make sour milk, simply add 1 tablespoon of vinegar to 1 cup of fresh milk. Let it sit for a few minutes until it curdles slightly, and it’s ready to use.

Preparation Method

Mix the Ingredients:
Begin by combining the sugar, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt in a large mixing bowl. These dry ingredients form the base of the dough and give the doughnuts their distinctive flavor. Next, add the eggs, sour milk, and shortening to the bowl. Use a whisk or hand mixer to blend everything together until you have a smooth, creamy mixture.

Incorporate the Flour:
Gradually add the flour to the wet mixture, one cup at a time. Stir the flour in thoroughly after each addition until a soft dough forms. The dough should be pliable but not sticky. Depending on the humidity and the exact measurements, you may need a little more or less flour to achieve the right consistency.

Roll and Cut the Dough:
Once your dough is ready, transfer it to a floured surface. Lightly dust your rolling pin with flour and roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter to cut out the doughnuts. If you don’t have a doughnut cutter, a large round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass can work, with a smaller cutter to create the doughnut holes.

Fry the Doughnuts:
Heat the shortening in a deep fryer or a large, heavy-bottomed pot to 375°F (190°C). Carefully drop the doughnuts into the hot shortening, a few at a time, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry the doughnuts for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove the doughnuts from the oil, letting any excess oil drain off.

Cool and Decorate:
Place the fried doughnuts on a plate lined with soft, crumpled paper towels to drain. Once they have cooled slightly, dust them generously with powdered sugar, granulated sugar mixed with cinnamon, or drizzle them with a simple glaze (recipe below). Don’t forget to fry and decorate the doughnut holes, too—they’re just as delicious!

Tips and Conclusion

Extra Tips
Customize the Flavors: While the traditional nutmeg flavor is a classic, you can experiment by adding a hint of cinnamon, cardamom, or even a dash of cocoa powder to the dough for a different flavor profile. If you’re feeling adventurous, try dipping the finished doughnuts in melted chocolate or caramel for an extra indulgent treat.

Making the Perfect Glaze: For a simple white doughnut glaze, mix 2 cups of powdered sugar with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 4 to 6 tablespoons of milk. Stir the mixture until it reaches your desired consistency—thicker for a more substantial coating, or thinner for a lighter drizzle. If you prefer a flavored glaze, substitute some of the milk with fresh lemon juice or a flavored extract like almond or maple.

Storing Leftovers: Doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To refresh them, warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes.

Conclusion
Granny’s Doughnuts are more than just a delightful sweet treat; they are a culinary tradition that brings people together. Whether enjoyed plain, dusted with sugar, or drizzled with a sweet glaze, these doughnuts are sure to become a favorite in your household. The process of making these doughnuts is as enjoyable as eating them, creating an opportunity to gather family and friends in the kitchen for a shared experience.

So, next time you’re in the mood for something sweet, why not try your hand at Granny’s Doughnuts? Not only will you be creating a delicious treat, but you’ll also be continuing a tradition that can be passed down through generations, just like it was for Granny. The satisfaction of biting into a warm, freshly made doughnut, especially one crafted with love and care, is a pleasure that never goes out of style.