Description
Wake up to the irresistible aroma of homemade sourdough donuts—golden, pillowy soft, and packed with tangy depth. These naturally-leavened treats are a perfect indulgence for weekend brunches, cozy breakfasts, or sweet snacks. With simple pantry ingredients and the richness of a sourdough starter, they offer a flavorful twist on a beloved classic. Whether you dip them in vanilla glaze, toss them in cinnamon sugar, or add a maple drizzle, these donuts are an easy recipe to elevate your breakfast ideas, healthy snack cravings, or food ideas for entertaining.
Ingredients
1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup whole milk (warm)
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Optional glaze or cinnamon sugar (for topping)
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the sourdough starter, warm milk, sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
2. Add flour and salt. Mix until a dough forms, then knead by hand for 8–10 minutes (or 5–6 minutes in a mixer) until smooth and elastic.
3. Place dough in a greased bowl. Cover and let rise at room temperature for 4–6 hours or refrigerate overnight (8–12 hours) for deeper flavor.
4. On a floured surface, roll out dough to ½ inch thickness. Cut donuts using a donut cutter and place on parchment-lined trays.
5. Cover and let proof for 1–2 hours until puffy.
6. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry donuts in batches for 1–1½ minutes per side until golden. Drain on paper towels.
7. While warm, dip in glaze or toss in cinnamon sugar. Let set before serving.
Notes
For best results, use a bubbly, active starter that’s been fed 4–6 hours before mixing.
Maintain frying temperature at 350°F to avoid oily donuts.
For a crispier crust, let cut donuts proof in a slightly warm place.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut
- Calories: 245
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: sourdough donuts, breakfast ideas, easy recipe, healthy snack, donut recipe