If you’re craving a sweet, fluffy treat that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee, look no further than the cake donut recipe. Unlike yeast donuts, which are airy and chewy, cake donuts have a rich, tender crumb and a slightly crisp exterior. They’re quicker to make since they don’t require rising time, making them a favorite for home bakers.
Cake donuts have been enjoyed for decades across the world, often served plain, glazed, or dusted with sugar. With a few pantry staples and simple techniques, you can whip up a batch of homemade cake donuts that taste even better than store-bought ones.
Table of Contents
What Makes Cake Donuts Different from Yeast Donuts
The main difference lies in the leavening agent. Cake donuts rely on baking powder or baking soda to rise, while yeast donuts require fermentation, which makes them lighter and chewier. Cake donuts, on the other hand, are denser, richer, and hold up well to glazes and toppings.
A Brief History of Cake Donuts
The cake donut has roots in early American baking, when home cooks created quick-fried doughs without yeast. Their sturdier texture and ease of preparation made them a staple in diners and bakeries, and today they remain one of the most popular types of donuts worldwide.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Cake Donut Recipe
Flour Selection and Its Role
All-purpose flour provides the right balance of structure and tenderness. Using bread flour makes donuts chewy, while cake flour can make them too delicate.
Sugar, Butter, and Eggs – The Flavor Trio
- Sugar sweetens and helps caramelize the outer crust.
- Butter adds richness and flavor.
- Eggs create structure and moisture for a soft crumb.
Baking Powder vs. Yeast: Why Cake Donuts Rise Differently
Cake donuts depend on chemical leavening (baking powder) instead of yeast. This makes them quick to prepare, with no proofing required.
Tools and Equipment You’ll Need
Mixing Bowls, Whisks, and Donut Cutters
Basic kitchen tools like a large bowl, whisk, and rolling pin are essential. A donut cutter (or two round cookie cutters) helps shape the dough.
Frying Pan vs. Donut Maker vs. Oven
- Frying pan – creates the classic crispy exterior.
- Donut maker – perfect for consistent results.
- Oven with donut pan – healthier baked option.
Step-by-Step Classic Cake Donut Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- 2 tbsp butter (melted)
- ½ cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Mix Dry Ingredients – Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg in a large bowl.
- Mix Wet Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, vanilla, and melted butter.
- Combine and Form Dough – Stir wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Don’t overmix.
- Shape Donuts – Roll dough ½ inch thick and cut into donut shapes.
- Cook – Fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 minute per side until golden brown. OR bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes.
- Cool and Glaze – Allow donuts to cool before dipping in glaze or rolling in sugar.
Variations of Cake Donut Recipe
Vanilla Cake Donut Recipe
Stick to the base recipe with extra vanilla extract for a stronger flavor. Pair with vanilla glaze for a classic treat.
Chocolate Cake Donut Recipe
Add ½ cup cocoa powder to the flour mix and increase sugar slightly. Dip in chocolate glaze for double the indulgence.
Healthy Cake Donut Recipe (Low Sugar & Baked)
- Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose.
- Reduce sugar by half.
- Replace some butter with Greek yogurt.
- Bake instead of frying for a lighter option.
If you’re looking for lighter options, you’ll love this healthy baked cake donut recipe which reduces sugar and swaps in better-for-you ingredients like whole wheat flour and yogurt.
Decorating and Flavor Enhancements
Classic Glazes: Vanilla, Chocolate, and Maple
- Vanilla glaze – powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract.
- Chocolate glaze – melted chocolate, butter, powdered sugar.
- Maple glaze – powdered sugar, milk, maple syrup.
Creative Toppings: Sprinkles, Nuts, and Cinnamon Sugar
Once glazed, add toppings like:
- Sprinkles for fun color.
- Crushed nuts for crunch.
- Cinnamon sugar for a cozy bakery-style finish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Cake Donuts
Overmixing the Batter
Leads to dense, tough donuts. Mix gently until combined.
Incorrect Oil Temperature
Too hot = burnt outside, raw inside. Too cool = greasy donuts. Keep oil at 350°F (175°C).
Using the Wrong Flour
Stick with all-purpose flour for best results.
Storing and Reheating Cake Donuts
Best Ways to Keep Donuts Fresh
Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Place wax paper between layers to avoid sticking.
Freezing and Reheating Tips
- Freeze unglazed donuts for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.
- Glaze them after reheating for best taste.
Nutritional Information for Cake Donuts
Calories per Serving
- A classic fried cake donut contains around 200–250 calories. According to NutritionValue.org’s cake donut nutrition facts, a plain donut provides a full breakdown of calories, carbs, fats, and protein.
- A baked cake donut typically contains 150–180 calories.
Healthier Ingredient Substitutions
- Applesauce or yogurt instead of butter.
- Honey instead of refined sugar.
- Baking instead of frying.
FAQs about Cake Donut Recipe
1. Can I bake cake donuts instead of frying them?
Yes, baking makes them lighter and healthier. Use a donut pan at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes.
2. Why are my cake donuts dense and heavy?
Usually from overmixing or adding too much flour.
3. How do I make gluten-free cake donuts?
Use a gluten-free baking mix that contains xanthan gum.
4. What oil is best for frying cake donuts?
Neutral oils like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil are ideal.
5. How long do homemade cake donuts last?
Best eaten fresh, but last up to 2 days in an airtight container.
6. Can I add fruit or chocolate chips to the batter?
Yes! Blueberries, mini chocolate chips, or shredded coconut can be folded in.
Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Cake Donuts
Learning how to make a cake donut recipe at home is both rewarding and delicious. With simple ingredients, the right technique, and a touch of creativity, you can whip up donuts that rival any bakery. From classic vanilla to indulgent chocolate or even healthier baked versions, the possibilities are endless.
So, whether you’re serving them for breakfast, dessert, or a special family gathering, cake donuts are sure to bring joy and sweetness to the table. Grab your mixing bowl, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to master this timeless treat.
👉 For more inspiration and baking tips, visit King Arthur Baking.
Classic Cake Donut Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Rolling Pin
- Donut Cutter or Cookie Cutter
- Frying Pan or Donut Pan
- Cooling Rack
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup Granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons Baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Nutmeg Optional, for flavor
- 2 tablespoons Butter Melted
- 1/2 cup Milk
- 1 large Egg
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
Glaze Ingredients (Optional)
- 1 cup Powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons Milk Adjust for desired consistency
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg.
- Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
- Step 3: Stir the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Step 4: Roll the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness on a floured surface and cut into donut shapes.
- Step 5: Heat oil in a frying pan to 350°F (175°C) and fry donuts until golden brown, about 1 minute per side. Alternatively, bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes.
- Step 6: Transfer donuts to a cooling rack. Once cooled slightly, dip in glaze or coat in cinnamon sugar.