First Step: Gather and Prepare Ingredients: Start by setting out all your ingredients so everything is ready to go. This means having your butter at room temperature and eggs cold as specified. Measuring out your granulated sugar, brown sugar, and other items in advance makes the process smoother for this classic donut recipe.

Second Step: Make the Dough: Beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until they’re fluffy and light. Add in the egg yolks, whole egg, and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine. Then, stir in the sour cream until everything is blended, creating a rich base for your buttermilk old fashioned donut.

Third Step: Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, milk powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents, which is key for the texture in homemade old fashioned donuts. For dietary adaptations, you could swap flour here if needed.

Fourth Step: Combine and Chill: Add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Knead it gently on a floured surface, then shape into a disc and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight. This chilling step is crucial for maintaining the shape of your traditional donut during frying.

Fifth Step: Cut and Score the Donut: Roll out the chilled dough to about ½ to ⅝ inch thick. Use a donut cutter to make the shapes, then score the outer edge with three vertical slits and the inner ring for that signature crackled texture. This part of the buttermilk old fashioned donut recipe adds visual appeal and helps the glaze settle in.

Sixth Step: Chill Again: Place the cut donut in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes. This second chill helps them hold their form when fried, a pro tip for anyone making homemade old fashioned donuts. It’s especially useful if you’re adapting for dietary preferences.

Seventh Step: Fry the Donut: Heat your oil to 325 350°F in a deep fryer or pot. Fry the donuts for 90 seconds to 2 minutes per side until they’re golden brown. Keep an eye on the temperature to avoid greasy results, making this a great step for busy parents perfecting their classic donut recipe at home.

Eighth Step: Glaze and Serve: While the donuts are still warm, whisk together powdered sugar, water, and vanilla extract to make the glaze. Dip or pour the glaze over the donut, allowing it to set. Serve them fresh for the best experience, and consider adaptations like using less sugar for diet-conscious individuals.