sourdough donuts

Sourdough Donuts

Sourdough donuts are soft, fluffy, and full of rich flavor thanks to natural fermentation from sourdough starter. Unlike traditional donuts made only with commercial yeast, sourdough donuts develop a slightly tangy taste and a wonderfully tender crumb. They are perfect for using up extra sourdough starter while creating a bakery-style treat right at home.

These donuts can be fried for a classic golden crust or baked for a lighter option. Whether coated in cinnamon sugar, glazed with vanilla icing, or filled with jam or cream, sourdough donuts are a delicious homemade indulgence.

Why You’ll Love These Sourdough Donuts

There are many reasons home bakers love sourdough donuts:

Great use for sourdough starter: Perfect for both active starter and sourdough discard.

Amazing flavor: The fermentation gives the donuts a deep, slightly tangy taste.

Light and fluffy texture: Proper fermentation creates an airy crumb.

Customizable toppings: Glaze, chocolate, cinnamon sugar, or powdered sugar.

Perfect for breakfast or dessert: A versatile treat that feels special anytime.

Ingredients

For the dough:

• 1 cup active sourdough starter
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup warm milk
• ¼ cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter (softened)
• 1 large egg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Oil for frying

Optional toppings:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Cinnamon sugar mixture
• Chocolate glaze

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Donut cutter (or two round cutters)
• Deep frying pan or Dutch oven
• Thermometer (optional but helpful)
• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix the dough

In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter, warm milk, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and softened butter. Mix until smooth.

Add the flour and salt gradually while stirring until a soft dough forms.

2. Knead the dough

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for about 5 minutes.

3. First rise (fermentation)

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover with a towel or plastic wrap.

Allow the dough to rise for 6–8 hours at room temperature or overnight in the refrigerator. The dough should double in size.

This slow fermentation is what gives sourdough donuts their unique flavor.

4. Roll and cut the donuts

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out to about ½ inch thickness.

Use a donut cutter to cut donut shapes. If you don’t have one, use a large glass and a small bottle cap for the center.

Place the donuts on a parchment-lined tray.

5. Second rise

Cover the shaped donuts lightly and let them rise for 1–2 hours until they become puffy.

6. Heat the oil

Heat oil in a deep pot to about 350°F (175°C).

Maintaining the right temperature is important for evenly cooked donuts.

7. Fry the donuts

Carefully place the donuts in the hot oil, frying 2–3 donuts at a time.

Fry each side for about 1–2 minutes until golden brown.

Remove the donuts and place them on a paper towel or cooling rack to drain excess oil.

Simple Vanilla Glaze

In a small bowl mix:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Dip the warm donuts into the glaze and place them back on the rack to set.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per donut)

• Calories: 220
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Fat: 8 g
• Sugar: 10 g

Values may vary depending on toppings.

Tips for Perfect Sourdough Donuts

Use active starter for best rise
An active, bubbly starter will give lighter donuts.

Don’t add too much flour
The dough should be soft and slightly tacky.

Keep oil temperature steady
If oil is too hot, donuts burn outside but stay raw inside.

Allow proper fermentation
Long fermentation improves flavor and texture.

Fry donut holes too
Don’t waste the centers—fry them for mini donut bites.

Flavor Variations

Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Roll warm donuts in cinnamon and sugar for a classic taste.

Chocolate Glazed Donuts
Dip donuts in melted chocolate glaze for a rich finish.

Jam-Filled Donuts
Skip cutting the center and fill donuts with raspberry or strawberry jam.

Lemon Glaze Donuts
Add lemon juice and zest to powdered sugar glaze for a fresh citrus flavor.

Storage Tips

Room temperature:
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Refrigerator:
Keep up to 4 days, but texture may become slightly firmer.

Freezer:
Freeze unglazed donuts for up to 2 months.

Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Sourdough donuts are best enjoyed fresh and warm. Pair them with:

• Fresh fruit
• Coffee or tea
• Hot chocolate
• Vanilla ice cream for dessert

They also make a wonderful weekend breakfast treat or special brunch addition.