Soft, golden, and lightly spiced, these Old Fashioned Donuts are the definition of comfort.
Each bite is tender on the inside and crisp on the outside, coated in a luscious mixed berry glaze that adds the perfect fruity sweetness.
It’s a nostalgic treat with a modern twist — homemade, heartwarming, and absolutely irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These donuts are made with real ingredients and a hint of nostalgia.
The combination of nutmeg and cinnamon gives them a cozy, bakery-style flavor.
The mayonnaise adds surprising moisture and tenderness to the dough.
They fry up beautifully golden and pair perfectly with the berry glaze.
You can make them in under an hour with simple pantry staples.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
All-purpose flour – Creates the perfect structure and crumb.
Mayonnaise – Adds moisture and richness for soft, tender donuts.
Nutmeg and cinnamon – Classic spices that give warmth and aroma.
Whole milk – Keeps the dough smooth and rich.
Mixed berries – Bring bright, fruity tartness to balance the sweetness.
Powdered sugar – Turns the glaze smooth and glossy.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Chill the dough slightly if it’s too sticky to roll.
Use a thermometer to keep your oil at 350°F for even frying.
Don’t overcrowd the pot — fry in small batches for the best texture.
Drain donuts on paper towels before glazing.
Dip donuts in the glaze while slightly warm for the perfect coating.
How to Make Old Fashioned Donuts
Step 1 – Prepare the batter
Beat egg, granulated sugar, and mayonnaise in a stand mixer until creamy.
Step 2 – Mix dry ingredients
In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
Step 3 – Combine wet and dry
Add flour mixture to the egg mixture alternately with milk, beginning and ending with the flour.
Stir in vanilla.
Step 4 – Shape the donuts
Turn dough onto a floured surface and roll to ½-inch thickness.
Cut into donut shapes using a floured cutter.
Step 5 – Fry
Heat oil to 350°F in a Dutch oven.
Fry donuts and holes in batches for 2–3 minutes, turning to brown evenly.
Step 6 – Drain
Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 7 – Glaze
Dip each warm donut in Mixed Berry Glaze and top with sprinkles if desired.
Let set on a wire rack.
How to Make Mixed Berry Glaze
Bring berries, lemon juice, and sugar to a boil in a saucepan. Simmer 5–8 minutes until syrupy.
Strain to remove seeds, pressing to extract juice.
Add melted butter and powdered sugar, stirring until smooth and glossy.
Adjust consistency with more sugar or juice if needed.
What to Serve It With
Enjoy these donuts with coffee, hot chocolate, or cold milk.
Serve as part of a brunch spread with fruit and scrambled eggs.
Top with whipped cream or extra berry compote for a dessert twist.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap the mixed berries for strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries.
Use sour cream instead of mayo for a tangier flavor.
Add lemon zest to the glaze for a citrus kick.
Dust with powdered sugar instead of glaze for a classic look.
Bake instead of fry (at 375°F for 10–12 minutes) for a lighter version.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat briefly in the microwave or oven before serving.
Glaze after reheating to maintain freshness.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate it overnight and roll out when ready to fry.
Can I bake these donuts instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 375°F for 10–12 minutes until golden.
Why use mayonnaise in donuts?
It adds moisture and a soft crumb without making them greasy.
Can I skip the glaze?
Of course! Roll in cinnamon sugar or dust with powdered sugar instead.
What oil is best for frying?
Use neutral oil like vegetable or canola with a high smoke point.
Can I make the glaze thicker?
Add more powdered sugar until it reaches your desired consistency.
Can I use fresh berries for the glaze?
Yes, just reduce the cooking time slightly since they release juice faster.
Why are my donuts dense?
You may have overmixed the dough — mix just until combined.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, it scales easily. Just fry in multiple batches.
How do I prevent greasy donuts?
Maintain the oil at 350°F and drain well on paper towels.
Final Thoughts
These Old Fashioned Donuts are pure homemade joy — tender, fragrant, and dipped in a luscious berry glaze that adds a burst of color and flavor.
Whether for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat, they bring that cozy, nostalgic bakery aroma right to your kitchen.
