Name: Old Fashioned Cake Donuts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1 tsp salt; 3/4 cup buttermilk; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze); 2 tbsp milk (for glaze); 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for glaze)

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There’s nothing quite like a warm, freshly baked old fashioned cake donut. These donuts have a tender, cakey texture with just the right hint of spice from nutmeg and a simple, sweet glaze that hardens to a slight crunch. I make these whenever I crave a nostalgic treat that pairs perfectly with a morning coffee or an afternoon break.

Old Fashioned Cake Donuts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how simple yet satisfying this recipe is. The batter comes together quickly, the baking time is short, and the flavor is absolutely classic. Since these donuts are baked, not fried, I get to enjoy them without the mess or heaviness of oil. Plus, the glaze sets beautifully, giving each donut a glossy finish that makes them feel like they came straight from a bakery.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Donuts:
2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tsp salt
3/4 cup buttermilk
2 eggs, beaten
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing my donut pan.
In a large bowl, I whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, nutmeg, and salt.
In another bowl, I combine the buttermilk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
I gently stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, just until combined, being careful not to overmix.
I spoon the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full.
I bake the donuts for 8–10 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
While they bake, I whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze.
Once the donuts are slightly cooled, I dip the tops in the glaze and place them on a wire rack to set.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 standard-sized donuts.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Bake time: 8–10 minutes
Total time: approximately 20–25 minutes

Variations

When I want to change things up, I sometimes add a bit of cinnamon to the batter or use almond extract instead of vanilla. If I’m in the mood for something chocolatey, I toss a few mini chocolate chips into the batter. I’ve also tried topping the glazed donuts with crushed nuts or sprinkles for a festive touch.

Storage/Reheating

I store the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, I refrigerate them for up to 5 days. To reheat, I pop one in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds—just enough to warm it up without melting the glaze.

FAQs

What makes these donuts “old fashioned”?

The term refers to the cake-like texture and the use of simple ingredients like nutmeg, buttermilk, and a basic sugar glaze—just like classic bakery donuts from decades ago.

Can I make these without a donut pan?

Yes, I’ve made them using a muffin pan or even by piping rings onto parchment paper, though the shape won’t be quite the same.

Can I fry this donut batter instead?

I wouldn’t recommend it. This batter is made for baking and doesn’t hold up well in oil. For frying, I use a stiffer dough designed specifically for that.

Can I freeze these donuts?

Absolutely. I freeze them (without the glaze) in a single layer, then store them in a freezer-safe bag. When I’m ready to enjoy one, I thaw and glaze it fresh.

How do I keep the glaze from soaking in?

Letting the donuts cool slightly before glazing helps. I dip the tops while they’re still warm but not hot, so the glaze stays on the surface and hardens nicely.

Conclusion

Old fashioned cake donuts are one of my favorite baked treats to make at home. They’re easy, nostalgic, and just sweet enough to satisfy a craving without being over the top. Whether I enjoy them plain, glazed, or with a little twist, they always hit the spot.