There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about old fashioned cake donuts. Maybe it’s the tender crumb, the warm aroma of nutmeg wafting from the oven, or the glossy vanilla glaze that glistens like a homemade promise. These donuts are more than just a breakfast treat—they’re a trip back to simpler times, like cozy Saturday mornings at Grandma’s or chilly holidays filled with sweet, spiced aromas.
This recipe brings the old-timey charm of bakery-fresh cake donuts right into your kitchen with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Whether you’re making them as a weekend indulgence, serving them at brunch with friends, or just looking for a rainy-day baking project, these classic donuts will make any moment feel a little more special.
Why You’ll Love These Old Fashioned Cake Donuts
If you’ve never made donuts at home before, this is the perfect recipe to start with. These baked old fashioned cake donuts deliver everything you want in a homemade donut:
- No frying involved – Skip the mess and danger of hot oil!
- Soft and cakey texture – With just the right amount of bite.
- Simple, wholesome ingredients – You know exactly what’s going in.
- Quick and easy to make – From mixing to glazing in just 20 minutes.
- Perfectly customizable – Add toppings, spices, or glazes of your choice.
These donuts offer a delightful balance of nostalgia and convenience—ideal for modern bakers who crave a classic experience without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you begin, make sure you have everything on hand. Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, which makes this recipe even more appealing.
For the Donuts:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Your Pan and Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a donut pan. Using a nonstick spray or brushing it with oil ensures the donuts release cleanly and maintain their shape.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground nutmeg, and salt. The nutmeg is essential—it’s what gives cake donuts that familiar old fashioned flavor.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, stir together the buttermilk, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter. The buttermilk brings tanginess and moisture, which creates that tender, cakey bite.
4. Bring It All Together
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—the key to light, fluffy donuts is a gentle hand.
5. Fill the Donut Pan
Spoon the batter into the donut wells, filling each about 2/3 full. You can also use a piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner snipped off for more control.
6. Bake to Perfection
Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a donut comes out clean. The donuts should be puffed, lightly golden, and fragrant.
7. Make the Glaze
While the donuts cool slightly, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable.
8. Dip and Cool
Dip each donut into the glaze, then set them on a wire rack with parchment underneath to catch any drips. Let them cool completely so the glaze can set.
Tips for Perfect Cake Donuts Every Time
To ensure your donuts come out bakery-quality every time, keep these tips in mind:
✅ Use Room Temperature Ingredients
Cold eggs and buttermilk can affect how your batter comes together. Let them sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before mixing.
✅ Don’t Overmix
Overworking the batter leads to tough donuts. Stir just until the ingredients are incorporated for the fluffiest texture.
✅ Customize Your Toppings
Try adding sprinkles, crushed nuts, or a dash of cinnamon to the glaze. You can even swap the glaze for a chocolate version or a maple glaze for a fall-inspired twist.
✅ No Donut Pan? No Problem
Use a muffin tin and aluminum foil to create makeshift donut wells. Shape foil into small cylinders and place them in the center of each muffin cup before adding batter around them.
Storage and Reheating Tips
These donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but they store well too. Here’s how to keep them delicious:
- Room Temperature: Store glazed donuts in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerate: For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to restore softness.
- Freeze: Freeze unglazed donuts for up to 3 months. Thaw and glaze when ready to serve.
Nutritional Information (Per Donut)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 3g
These values are approximate but give a good idea for those watching their intake.
Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve With Cake Donuts
Old fashioned donuts are versatile and pair well with many beverages and accompaniments:
- Coffee or espresso – A bold roast complements the sweet glaze.
- Chai tea or hot cocoa – For a cozy, spiced twist.
- Fresh berries – A refreshing contrast to the rich flavor.
- Greek yogurt with honey – A balanced, hearty breakfast.
Hosting brunch? Create a DIY donut bar with a variety of glazes and toppings for a fun, interactive experience.
Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, try experimenting with these ideas:
🍫 Chocolate Glaze
Swap the vanilla glaze with a simple chocolate version made from cocoa powder, powdered sugar, milk, and a touch of butter.
🍁 Maple Walnut Donuts
Add 1/2 tsp maple extract to the glaze and top with crushed walnuts.
🍋 Lemon Glazed Donuts
Add lemon zest to the batter and swap the milk in the glaze with fresh lemon juice.
🌾 Whole Wheat Donuts
Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and a slightly nutty flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, but you’ll miss out on the slight tang and tenderness that buttermilk provides. For a quick substitute, mix 3/4 cup milk with 2 tsp lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Why are my donuts dry or dense?
Dry donuts are usually the result of overbaking or overmixing. Check your oven temperature and be gentle when combining ingredients.
Can I make these donuts gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Results may vary slightly, but many readers have success with this swap.
Final Thoughts: The Joy of Homemade Old Fashioned Cake Donuts
There’s something profoundly satisfying about creating a timeless recipe from scratch. These old fashioned cake donuts deliver a moment of comfort, a sweet indulgence, and a memory in the making. They’re more than just baked goods—they’re little rings of joy.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious beginner, this recipe invites you to slow down, enjoy the process, and savor every bite. Share them with loved ones, post your creation online, or make a batch just for yourself (we won’t tell).
So what are you waiting for? Preheat that oven, grab your donut pan, and let’s make some magic happen—one warm, glazed donut at a time.