Donuts are a beloved snack in many parts of the world, often enjoyed for breakfast, as a dessert, or simply as a sweet treat during the day. The typical donut is made from a simple dough of flour, sugar, eggs, and yeast, fried to golden perfection. But what happens when you take that classic donut recipe and introduce the magic of sourdough? You get sourdough donuts – a deliciously unique spin on an old favorite.
What Are Sourdough Donuts?
At their core, sourdough donuts are made with a sourdough starter instead of the typical yeast. A sourdough starter is a mixture of flour and water that has fermented over time, harnessing wild yeasts and bacteria to rise the dough. This fermentation process gives sourdough its signature tangy flavor, which transforms the donut into something extra special. The sourdough starter that we have is from 1847. It was started and has been maintained since it’s journey began on the Oregon Trail.
The beauty of sourdough donuts lies in this natural fermentation. The wild yeast works slowly, creating a complex flavor that enhances the donut without overwhelming the sweetness. The texture is also different, often denser but still light and airy, with a chewy interior and a crisp, golden exterior. They can be fried or baked, though frying is more traditional.
The Appeal of Sourdough Donuts
1. Unique Flavor
The tanginess of sourdough adds depth and complexity to the donut. It’s subtle, but it’s enough to set these donuts apart from the typical sugary treats you’re used to. The slightly tart note of the sourdough balances out the sweetness of glazes or fillings, creating a more sophisticated taste experience.
2. Perfect for Sourdough Enthusiasts
For those who love sourdough bread, sourdough donuts are the perfect way to enjoy that signature flavor in a new form. If you’ve already mastered the art of sourdough baking, making donuts is an exciting way to experiment with your starter while enjoying a delicious result.
3. Better Texture
The fermentation process in sourdough donuts gives them an incredible texture that’s both light and chewy. The bubbles created by the wild yeast help create a fluffier donut with a crisp exterior and a soft, airy center.
4. Longer Shelf Life
Thanks to the natural preservation properties of sourdough, these donuts often last longer than their yeast-based counterparts. The natural acids in the dough can keep the donut from going stale too quickly, giving you more time to savor them.
Flavor Variations
While the base of a sourdough donut is incredible on its own, you can easily elevate the flavors with different fillings or toppings. Here are a few ideas:
- Cinnamon Sugar: A classic and easy topping, perfect for adding a sweet and spicy crunch to your donuts.
- Chocolate Glaze: Melted chocolate mixed with a little cream makes a rich glaze to dip your donuts into.
- Fruit Fillings: Strawberry, raspberry, or lemon curd can add a tangy burst of flavor inside the donut.
- Maple Glaze: For a more seasonal touch, drizzle your donuts with maple glaze for a warm, comforting flavor.
Sourdough Doughnuts
Equipment
- 1 Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 2 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 2/3 sourdough starter, active
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
Icing Glaze
- 1 cup powder sugar
- 1-3 tbsp milk or water
- 1 tsp vanilla
Instructions
- Activate the Starter: Make sure your sourdough starter is fed and bubbly. You’ll need it to be active, so it can help the donuts rise. If your starter isn’t quite ready, feed it the night before and let it sit at room temperature overnight.
- Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine your sourdough starter, flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Once your dough has come together, knead it on a floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step.
- Let it Rise: Place your dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 2-4 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Donuts: After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out to about 1/2 inch thickness. Using a donut cutter or two round cookie cutters (one large and one small), cut out the donut shapes. Place the donuts and holes on a parchment-lined tray.
- Air Fry the Donuts: Spray or grease the air fryer tray. Place the doughnuts on the tray and spray with extra oil. Close the air fryer. Turn on the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the donuts in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 2-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Use a fork or tongs to remove them from the hot tray and place them on cookie sheet or baking rack.
- (If you don't have an air fryer) Oil Fry the Donuts: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to about 350°F (175°C). Fry the donuts in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Glaze or Dust with Sugar: You can coat your fresh sourdough donuts in a simple glaze (made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla) or roll them in cinnamon sugar for an extra flavor boost. You can also dip them in chocolate glaze or enjoy them plain to really savor the sourdough flavor.
“May Adonai bless you and keep you. May Adonai bless you and keep you. May Adonai lift up his face towards you and give you peace.”
– Numbers 6:24-26
Leave a Reply