Sour Cream Glazed Donuts: Old Fashioned Cake Recipe

Question 1

What are sour cream glazed donuts?

Accepted Answer

Sour cream glazed donuts are a classic old-fashioned donut variety with a tender, cake-like crumb from sour cream in the batter, giving them a subtle tangy flavor and moist texture. They're yeast-free, making them quicker to prepare than raised donuts. After frying, they're dipped in a simple glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Popular at bakeries like Bob's Donuts in San Francisco, they offer a balance of richness from the sour cream and sweetness from the shiny glaze. Each bite delivers a soft interior with a crisp exterior, perfect for breakfast or snacks. They're distinct from yeast donuts due to their denser, cake-style base.

Question 2

How do you make sour cream glazed donuts at home?

Accepted Answer

To make sour cream glazed donuts, start with these steps: Mix 2 cups flour, 1.5 tsp baking powder, 0.5 tsp salt, 0.25 tsp nutmeg. In another bowl, beat 0.75 cup sugar, 2 eggs, 1 tsp vanilla, and 0.75 cup sour cream. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then chill dough 1 hour. Roll to 0.5-inch thick, cut with a 3-inch donut cutter. Fry in 350°F oil for 1-2 minutes per side until golden. Drain on paper towels. For glaze, whisk 2 cups powdered sugar, 0.25 cup milk, and 1 tsp vanilla. Dip warm donuts and let set. Yields 12 donuts in under 2 hours total.

Question 3

What ingredients do I need for sour cream donut glaze?

Accepted Answer

For a perfect sour cream donut glaze, use 2 cups sifted powdered sugar, 1/4 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for thicker glaze), 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Optional add-ins include 1 tablespoon melted butter for shine or food coloring for fun variations. Whisk ingredients until smooth and lump-free; it should coat the back of a spoon. Dip warm donuts fully or drizzle for a lighter touch. This recipe glazes 12-15 donuts and sets in 10-15 minutes at room temp. Store extra glaze in the fridge for up to 3 days; thin with milk if needed. It's quick, customizable, and gives that signature glossy finish.

Question 4

Can I bake sour cream glazed donuts instead of frying?

Accepted Answer

Yes, bake sour cream glazed donuts for a lighter option. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a donut pan. Use the same batter: mix dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, etc.), then fold in wet (sour cream, eggs, sugar). Pipe batter into pan, filling 3/4 full. Bake 10-12 minutes until springy. Cool slightly, then dip in glaze. Baked versions have 30-50% less fat than fried but retain tenderness from sour cream. Brush with melted butter post-bake for crispier edges. Perfect for beginners avoiding hot oil. They store well in an airtight container for 2 days; reheat in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to refresh.

Question 5

How should I store sour cream glazed donuts?

Accepted Answer

Store sour cream glazed donuts in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days; the glaze keeps them soft. For longer storage, refrigerate up to 5 days in a covered container to prevent drying, but bring to room temp before eating. Freeze unglazed donuts in a freezer bag for up to 2 months—thaw overnight, then glaze fresh. Avoid stacking glazed donuts to prevent sticking. If they stale, microwave 10 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven. Proper storage maintains their moist crumb and tangy sour cream flavor. Always check for mold if storing beyond 5 days.

Ingredients

Instructions

Last Step:

Notes

Nutrition