Sourdough Donut Recipe Cinnamon Sugar With Amber Glaze

I’ve found my absolute favorite way to make weekend mornings extra special with this amazing sourdough donut recipe Cinnamon Sugar With Amber Glaze, and I think you will too!

Imagine the warm, inviting aroma of cinnamon filling your kitchen, followed by the first bite of a melt-in-your-mouth donut. This truly easy sourdough donut recipe Cinnamon Sugar With Amber Glaze transforms your active starter into an extraordinary family delight. It’s perfect for those busy mornings when my kids are asking for something sweet, but I still want to give them something homemade and truly special.

Ingredient Highlights and Smart Substitutions

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful sourdough donuts, ensuring a wholesome and family-friendly outcome.

• Active sourdough starter: 1 cup (240g) fed, active starter. The heart of the flavor.
• All-purpose flour: 3 cups (360g) unbleached flour. The foundation for fluffy donuts in this sourdough donut recipe Cinnamon Sugar With Amber Glaze. (Swap up to 1/4 cup with whole wheat pastry flour for a nuttier touch.)
• Warm whole milk: 1/2 cup (120ml). (Or use almond milk if dairy-free is preferred.)
• Large eggs: 2, room temperature. For richness and binding.
• Melted unsalted butter: 1/4 cup (56g). Creates a tender crumb.
• Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup (50g) for dough, plus 1/2 cup (100g) for coating.
• Light brown sugar: 2 Tbsp (25g). Adds subtle depth to the dough.
• Active dry yeast: 2 1/4 tsp (7g). Helps the dough rise beautifully.
• Fine sea salt: 1 tsp (6g). Enhances all the sweet flavors.
• Ground cinnamon: 1 Tbsp (coating), 1/2 tsp (dough). Classic, comforting spice.
• Ground nutmeg: 1/4 tsp (dough). For extra warmth.
• Powdered sugar: 2 cups (240g). For the smooth Amber Glaze.
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp. Essential for that inviting aroma in the glaze.
• Frying oil: 6-8 cups (1.5-2L) neutral oil like vegetable or canola. Ensures golden-brown results. Opt for organic options for your family.

Ingredient Roles

• Sourdough starter: Adds a wonderful tangy depth and aids in natural leavening, creating complex flavor profiles.
• Yeast: Ensures a reliable and quicker rise, resulting in light and airy donuts alongside the sourdough.
• Butter & eggs: Contribute to an incredibly tender, rich crumb, making each bite truly decadent.
• Cinnamon: Provides that classic, comforting warmth and inviting aroma that everyone loves.
• Amber Glaze: Offers a sweet, shiny finish with a hint of vanilla, elevating the aesthetic and taste.

Smart Swaps & Upgrades

These ideas let you tailor the sourdough donut recipe Cinnamon Sugar With Amber Glaze to your family’s preferences.

• Whole grain flour: Substitute up to 1/4 of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour for a slightly nuttier flavor and fiber.
• Reduced sugar: Adjust the sugar slightly in the dough and glaze to personal preference for a less sweet treat.
• Dairy-free: Use plant-based milk and butter substitutes (e.g., almond milk, vegan butter sticks) for a delicious dairy-free option.
• Organic options: Opt for organic eggs and dairy for quality ingredients, aligning with healthy eating habits.

Easy Cooking Instructions Step by Step

Making this sourdough donut recipe Cinnamon Sugar With Amber Glaze at home is simpler than you think, especially when you follow these clear steps to achieve a truly delightful treat. I always find that precise timing and attention to sensory cues make all the difference for perfect results.

1. 1. Prepare the Sourdough Dough (20 minutes active, 2-4 hours rise): Combine fed sourdough starter, warm milk, sugars, melted butter, eggs, flour, yeast, and salt. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, feeling it spring back. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot until visibly doubled, usually 2-4 hours, looking puffy.

Shortcut Tip

• Use a stand mixer with a dough hook for effortless kneading, saving your arms. This makes the ‘quick meal prep ideas’ easier.

2. 2. Shape the Donuts (15 minutes): Gently punch down the dough. Roll it out to about 1/2-inch thick on a lightly floured surface. Use a donut cutter or two different-sized round cutters to cut out donuts and holes. Place on parchment-lined baking sheets.

Special Diet Note

• For gluten-free versions of this sourdough donut recipe, use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, adjusting liquid as needed, and handle the dough very gently as it will be less elastic.

3. 3. Second Rise (30-60 minutes): Cover the shaped donuts and let them rise again in a warm place until visibly puffy. They should look light and airy, taking about 30-60 minutes.
4. 4. Fry the Donuts (15-20 minutes): Heat 2-3 inches of frying oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot to 350-360°F (175-180°C). Carefully lower 2-3 donuts into the hot oil (I often use my 10-inch skillet for smaller batches). Fry for 30-60 seconds per side, until golden brown and puffed, perfect for this hearty sourdough donut recipe Cinnamon Sugar With Amber Glaze. Remove with a slotted spoon to a wire rack set over paper towels.

Sensory Cue

• The oil should sizzle gently when a donut is dropped in, not aggressively. If too hot, they’ll burn outside and be raw inside. If too cool, they’ll be greasy. If your oil temperature drops significantly, remove a donut and let the oil reheat for a minute before continuing.

5. 5. Make the Cinnamon Sugar Coating (5 minutes): While donuts are still warm, toss them gently in a bowl of cinnamon sugar until evenly coated and shimmering.
6. 6. Prepare the Amber Glaze (5 minutes): Whisk together powdered sugar, a splash of milk or water, and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy. This glaze provides the perfect finish for your sourdough donut recipe Cinnamon Sugar With Amber Glaze. Dip a few Cinnamon Sugar donuts into the glaze, letting excess drip off.

Optional Note

• For extra protein, consider adding 1-2 scoops of unflavored protein powder to the dry ingredients, adjusting liquid if the dough becomes too stiff. This can make them a more substantial ‘high-protein snacks’ option, enhancing your sourdough donut recipe Cinnamon Sugar With Amber Glaze.

Everyday Uses and Storage Advice

These delightful treats extend beyond just dessert, fitting into various family moments with ease.

• Weekend Brunch Star: The ultimate indulgent treat for a relaxed morning with coffee or tea, a true family-friendly delight.
• After-School Delight: A warm, homemade surprise for hungry kids, far better than store-bought options.
• Special Occasion Treat: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or potlucks, these impress guests every time.
• Quick Lunch Pairing: Enjoy a donut hole alongside a lighter meal for a touch of sweetness and satisfaction.

Creative Serving Suggestions

Get playful with how you enjoy your homemade donuts.

• Donut Sundae: Top a plain sourdough donut with ice cream, chocolate sauce, and sprinkles for a fun dessert.
• Donut Skewers: Alternate donut holes with fresh fruit like strawberries and blueberries for a colorful presentation.
• Make Mini Donut Holes: Fry the cut-out centers for bite-sized delights that disappear fast.
• Pair with Coffee or Milk: A classic combination that never disappoints for a cozy moment.

Storage & Reheating

Proper storage ensures you can savor your homemade treats for longer.

• Room Temperature: Store leftover sourdough donuts in an airtight container for 1-2 days. The Cinnamon Sugar With Amber Glaze is best enjoyed fresh.
• Freezing: Unglazed donuts can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw them at room temperature, then glaze and warm gently before serving for a delicious ‘meal prep recipes’ option.
• Reheating: A quick 10-15 seconds in the microwave or a few minutes in a warm oven can bring back some freshness, making them almost as good as new.

Wellness & Lifestyle Benefits of Sourdough Donuts

While an indulgent treat, homemade sourdough donuts offer unique benefits when enjoyed mindfully.

• Balanced Treats for Families: Control over ingredients means a more wholesome treat than store-bought. I believe all treats fit into a balanced approach to eating.
• Digestive Support: Sourdough fermentation can improve digestibility compared to conventional yeasted doughs for some individuals, contributing to healthy eating.
• Homemade Goodness: Knowing exactly what goes into your ‘healthy recipes for families’ empowers you to make better choices and use organic ingredients.
• Kitchen Skill Building: A fun project that builds confidence in the kitchen and creates ‘quick meal prep ideas’ for the dough.
• Conscious Indulgence: A delicious way to enjoy a treat while appreciating the benefits of natural fermentation.

Recipe Value for Your Daily Goals

Making these donuts at home offers practical advantages beyond just flavor.

• Save Money: Making donuts at home is significantly cheaper than buying them from a bakery, especially for a large family.
• Eat Healthier (Your Way): You control the sugar, oil, and ingredients, fitting your personal definition of ‘eating healthier’.
• Time-Saving Options: With make-ahead dough options, you can fit this sourdough donut recipe Cinnamon Sugar With Amber Glaze into a busy schedule.
• Family Fun: A wonderful activity to share with kids, creating lasting memories and teaching kitchen skills.
• Impress Guests: Serve these gourmet-level donuts and watch the smiles, they’ll think you bought them from a specialty shop.
• Reduce Food Waste: A great way to use up excess sourdough discard!

Expert Tips, Variations, and Safety Notes

Achieving perfect, light sourdough donuts requires a few key techniques.

• Perfect Frying Temperature: Use a thermometer! Too low, they absorb oil; too high, they burn. Aim for a consistent 350-360°F (175-180°C) for perfectly golden results.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Fry only 2-3 donuts at a time to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking. Overcrowding can drop the oil temperature quickly.
• Test Dough Doneness: A well-risen dough is key for light, airy donuts. It should be puffy and spring back slowly when poked gently with a finger.
• Glaze Consistency: Adjust with small amounts of milk/water or powdered sugar to get your desired thickness for the Amber Glaze. I often add liquid sparingly, stirring well after each addition.

Flavor Variations

Personalize your donuts with these delightful changes.

• Nutmeg Donut Holes: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar for extra warmth and a classic bakery aroma.
• Lemon Glaze: Substitute vanilla extract with lemon zest and juice for a bright, tangy glaze that’s perfect for summer.
• Chocolate Dipped: Dip cooled donuts in melted chocolate, then sprinkle with nuts or sprinkles for an extra rich treat.
• Filled Donuts: Pipe jam, pastry cream, or lemon curd into cooled donuts before glazing for a delightful surprise inside.

Allergy & Diet Adjustments

Tailor this recipe to fit various dietary needs.

• Gluten-Free: Use a specific gluten-free sourdough starter and a high-quality GF all-purpose flour blend. Expect a slightly denser texture compared to traditional donuts.
• Yeast-Free: If your sourdough starter is very strong and active, you can omit the added yeast, but the rise time will be longer and texture may differ slightly.
• Nut-Free: Ensure all ingredients (especially oils and any sprinkles) are processed in a nut-free facility if allergies are severe for safety.

FAQs About Sourdough Donut Recipe Cinnamon Sugar With Amber Glaze

Can I prepare this sourdough donut recipe Cinnamon Sugar With Amber Glaze ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! You can mix the dough and let it have its first rise, then punch it down, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it overnight. The next morning, shape and proceed with the second rise and frying. I often let my dough rise overnight in the fridge; it makes weekend mornings so much smoother for my family and supports those ‘quick meal prep ideas’.

Is this sourdough donut recipe Cinnamon Sugar With Amber Glaze suitable for a high-protein diet?

While not a high-protein food, these donuts are a wonderful treat to enjoy in moderation within a balanced diet. For a slight boost, you can add one scoop of unflavored protein powder to the dry ingredients, adjusting liquid as needed to maintain dough consistency. This small tweak can make them fit better into a varied healthy eating plan.

What are the best sides to serve with these sourdough donuts?

These fluffy sourdough donuts are fantastic with a hot cup of coffee, a tall glass of cold milk, or alongside a fresh fruit salad for a complete brunch spread. For a savory contrast, consider serving them with a light egg scramble or a fresh yogurt parfait to balance the sweetness.

Can I bake these sourdough donuts instead of frying?

Yes, you can! Baked sourdough donuts will have a different texture, more like a fluffy cake or bun, but are still delicious. Bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes until golden. After baking, coat them in cinnamon sugar and glaze for a lighter version of this sourdough donut recipe Cinnamon Sugar With Amber Glaze.

What kind of sourdough starter should I use for this recipe?

An active, bubbly sourdough starter that has been fed within the last 4-8 hours is ideal for this recipe. If you’re using sourdough discard, you may want to increase the added yeast slightly to ensure a good rise and light texture, as discard has less leavening power.

How do I prevent my sourdough donuts from being greasy?

The key to preventing greasy donuts is maintaining the correct oil temperature (350-360°F or 175-180°C) and not overcrowding the pot. Using a thermometer is highly recommended to monitor the oil’s heat. Donuts cooked at too low a temperature will absorb too much oil, resulting in a heavy, oily texture.

Can I make these sourdough donuts without yeast?

You can try if your sourdough starter is very robust and active. However, the added yeast significantly helps with the rise and ensures that classic light, airy donut texture we all love. Without it, the rise will be slower and the texture might be denser, more akin to a bread roll than a donut.

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like the smell and taste of freshly made, warm sourdough donuts. This sourdough donut recipe Cinnamon Sugar With Amber Glaze is more than just a sweet treat; it’s a memorable baking experience that brings joy and deliciousness to your home, perfect for healthy recipes for families. Save this recipe on Pinterest now and make your family’s day with these irresistible homemade donuts!

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