The aroma of frying donuts wafting through the kitchen takes me back to cozy Sunday mornings filled with sweet indulgence. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Old Fashioned Sour Cream Donuts with Coffee Glaze. These homemade donuts are not just a joyful treat; they come together in only an hour, making them perfect for anyone seeking a quick yet satisfying option over fast food. The rich, coffee-flavored glaze, enhanced by browned butter and a hint of vanilla, transforms these delightful sour cream donuts into a comforting classic you’ll want to savor again and again. So, ready to heat up the oil and whip up a batch? Your perfect weekend breakfast awaits!

Why are homemade donuts so special?
Indulge in the ultimate homemade treat with these old fashioned sour cream donuts! Quick and easy to make, they come together in just an hour—perfect for those busy mornings. Irresistible flavors abound with the rich coffee glaze, combining the nuttiness of browned butter and the warmth of vanilla. Versatile and fun, you can customize them with spices or add-ins like chocolate chips. Plus, they’re the ideal companion for your morning brew, promising a satisfying alternative to fast food. Enjoy your homemade bliss today!
Sour Cream Donut Ingredients
• Let’s gather the essentials to whip up these irresistible old fashioned sour cream donuts!
For the Donuts
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; using a spoon to measure prevents dense donuts.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; coconut sugar can bring in a warm, caramelly flavor.
- Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture; both light and dark varieties add depth.
- Baking Powder – Ensures a light texture; make sure it’s fresh for optimal rise.
- Salt – Enhances overall flavor; a small pinch goes a long way.
- Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warmth; swap it for nutmeg if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Eggs – Binds ingredients for a tender crumb; flaxseed meal serves as a great vegan option.
- Sour Cream – Delivers moisture and tang; Greek yogurt is a splendid substitute.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; consider margarine for a dairy-free alternative.
- Vanilla Bean Paste/Extract – Imparts aromatic flavor; pure vanilla extract is perfectly fine too.
- Canola Oil – Gives a crispy texture when frying; vegetable or peanut oil works well too.
For the Coffee Glaze
- Powdered Sugar – Provides sweetness and smooth consistency; sift for a flawless glaze.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds creaminess; use margarine if you’re avoiding dairy.
- Cold Brew Coffee – Lends a coffee flavor; brewed coffee or espresso makes a great substitute.
- Heavy Cream – Brings richness and smooth texture; milk can lighten it up.
- Vanilla Bean Paste – Offers intense vanilla flavor; vanilla extract can easily stand in.
Now that you have all the ingredients, you’re one step closer to making delightful homemade old fashioned sour cream donuts with coffee glaze!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Old Fashioned Sour Cream Donuts with Coffee Glaze
Step 1: Prepare Dough
In a stand mixer, combine the dry ingredients: flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon on a low setting. In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients, including the eggs, sour cream, and vanilla. Gradually fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, adding melted butter until a soft dough forms. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm it up.
Step 2: Roll and Cut
Once the dough is chilled, lightly flour your countertop and roll the dough to about ¾ inch thick. Use a round cutter to cut out donut shapes, then poke a hole in the center with a smaller cutter or your finger. Place the formed donuts on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for another 15 minutes to maintain their shape during frying.
Step 3: Fry Donuts
In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat canola oil to 350°F (175°C) using a thermometer for accuracy. Carefully drop the chilled donuts into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each donut for 1-2 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and puffed up. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a cooling rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Make Glaze
While the donuts cool, melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns light golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar, cold brew coffee, heavy cream, and vanilla bean paste until you achieve a smooth, glossy glaze. If necessary, adjust the consistency with more cream or powdered sugar as needed.
Step 5: Glaze Donuts
Once the donuts are slightly warm, dip the tops into the prepared coffee glaze, allowing the excess to drip off. Place the glazed donuts on a wire rack to let the glaze set, about 10 minutes. This old fashioned sour cream donuts with coffee glaze will now be ready to serve, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors!

Make Ahead Options
These old fashioned sour cream donuts with coffee glaze are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the steps until you have your soft dough, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it. The cut donut shapes can also be made and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days before frying; just ensure they’re laid on parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy these delicious treats, fry the donuts straight from the refrigerator to maintain their quality and texture, and glaze them while they’re still warm for that perfect finishing touch. You’ll have fresh, delightful donuts ready with minimal morning effort!
Old Fashioned Sour Cream Donuts Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these donuts your own—there’s so much deliciousness waiting to be explored!
- Chocolate Chip Add-In: Fold in mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite. Chocolate lovers, rejoice!
- Flavored Glazes: Create a decadent chocolate glaze by melting chocolate with cream, or try a maple glaze for a breakfast twist. Both options elevate the experience.
- Spiced Up: Swap ground cinnamon for nutmeg or cardamom for a unique and aromatic flavor that dances on your palate.
- Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use dairy-free substitutes like coconut oil, sour cream, and milk. Everyone can enjoy these donuts!
- Fruit-Flavored: Stir in zest from oranges or lemons for a refreshing hint of citrus, brightening the flavors beautifully.
- Nutty Texture: Toss in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to add a delightful crunch to the soft texture of the donuts.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to cater to dietary needs, and enjoy these in a whole new way!
- Specialty Coffee: For the coffee glaze, try using flavored coffee like hazelnut or vanilla to enhance the richness and add depth to your glaze.
Whether you experiment with classic twists, like adding chocolate chips, or opt for an exciting new flavor like citrus zest, there’s no wrong way to enjoy these old fashioned sour cream donuts. And while we’re at it, if you love coffee treats, don’t miss out on our delightful Coffee Creamer Soda. Happy baking!
Expert Tips for Old Fashioned Sour Cream Donuts
-
Chill for Texture: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes helps firm it up, ensuring perfectly soft and fluffy old fashioned donuts.
-
Oil Temperature Check: Always use a thermometer to maintain the oil at 350°F; frying at the wrong temperature can lead to greasy or burnt donuts.
-
Don’t Overcrowd: Fry only a few donuts at a time to prevent the temperature from dropping and to ensure even cooking for your sour cream donuts.
-
Glaze While Warm: For the best-coated experience, dip donuts in the glaze while they are still warm; this allows for better absorption and a glossy finish.
-
Customize as You Wish: Feel free to play with spices or chocolate chips in the dough, making each batch of old fashioned sour cream donuts uniquely your own.
What to Serve with Old Fashioned Sour Cream Donuts with Coffee Glaze
Pair your delightful donuts with these perfect companions to elevate your meal experience.
- Rich Coffee: The classic pairing—smooth and aromatic coffee enhances the sweetness of the donuts, making every bite a treat.
- Fruity Jam: A spread of strawberry or raspberry jam brings a lovely tartness that contrasts the sweet glaze, creating a delightful balance.
- Bacon Strips: Crispy bacon adds a savory crunch that complements the donut’s sweetness, making for a wonderful sweet-savory combination.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits offers freshness and lightness to the table, balancing the rich flavors of the donuts.
- Milk or Cream: A glass of cold milk or a dollop of whipped cream pairs beautifully, adding a soothing creaminess to this sweet treat.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Enjoy your donuts with a scoop of vanilla ice cream; the melting creaminess mixed with the warm donut is heavenly!
- Spiced Chai Tea: This drink’s warm spices mimic the flavors of cinnamon in the donuts, offering a comforting and cozy drink alongside your sweet treat.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling some warm caramel on top of your donuts adds an extra layer of sweetness that’s simply irresistible.
- Orange Zest Whipped Cream: Whip up some heavy cream with a hint of orange zest for a fresh topping that brightens the flavor profiles.
How to Store and Freeze Old Fashioned Sour Cream Donuts
Room Temperature: Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their softness and flavor.
Fridge: For extended freshness, you can refrigerate the donuts wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container, keeping them good for up to 5 days.
Freezer: To freeze, place cooled donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your old fashioned sour cream donuts, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm them in a microwave for a few seconds or in an oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes for refreshment.

Old Fashioned Sour Cream Donuts with Coffee Glaze Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right sour cream for the donuts?
Absolutely! When selecting sour cream, opt for a full-fat version for the best richness and flavor in your donuts. Look for varieties that are labeled as “cultured” for a tangy kick. If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a fantastic alternative; it adds the same moisture and tang without compromising texture!
How long can I store the donuts, and what’s the best method?
You can store your delicious old fashioned sour cream donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate them, wrapped in plastic wrap or in a sealed container, for about 5 days. If you want to extend their shelf life even further, consider freezing them!
What’s the best way to freeze old fashioned sour cream donuts?
Freezing is a great way to save your extra donuts! Start by placing cooled donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, making sure they are not touching. Freeze until they are solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them into a zip-top freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They can stay fresh for up to 3 months!
What should I do if my donuts don’t rise properly while frying?
Very! If your donuts aren’t rising during frying, it could be that your baking powder isn’t fresh. Always check the expiration date and store it properly. Ensure the oil temperature is at 350°F—too low and they won’t puff up; too high and they’ll burn. If you’re ever in doubt, use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy.
Can I make these donuts dairy-free?
Absolutely! To make your old fashioned sour cream donuts dairy-free, you can replace the sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Use margarine in place of unsalted butter for the dough, and make sure your glaze doesn’t include any dairy as well. Enjoy your delicious treats without compromise!

Old Fashioned Sour Cream Donuts with Coffee Glaze Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a stand mixer, combine the dry ingredients: flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon on a low setting.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients, including the eggs, sour cream, and vanilla.
- Gradually fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, adding melted butter until a soft dough forms.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm it up.
- Lightly flour your countertop and roll the dough to about ¾ inch thick.
- Use a round cutter to cut out donut shapes, then poke a hole in the center with a smaller cutter or your finger.
- Place the formed donuts on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for another 15 minutes.
- Heat canola oil to 350°F (175°C) in a large, deep skillet.
- Carefully drop the chilled donuts into the hot oil, frying each for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a cooling rack lined with paper towels.
- Melt unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat until light golden brown.
- Whisk in the powdered sugar, cold brew coffee, heavy cream, and vanilla until smooth.
- Dip the tops of the slightly warm donuts into the glaze and allow excess to drip off.
- Let the glazed donuts set on a wire rack for about 10 minutes.

Leave a Reply