Vanilla Cake Doughnuts Recipe – Soft And Fluffy Treats

Vanilla cake doughnuts recipe from My Baking Addiction is a rich and tender treat loved for its soft texture and sweet vanilla flavor.

I made this delicious vanilla cake doughnuts recipe several times, enjoying the process of mixing, shaping, and frying until golden.

I followed the bakery-style method but added my own touches to the icing and sprinkles to make them more colorful and fun.

I want to share how much I enjoy this vanilla cake doughnuts recipe and show step-by-step instructions. The result is soft, golden doughnuts with creamy vanilla icing and bright sprinkles, ready to enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this vanilla cake doughnuts recipe because it delivers soft, tender doughnuts with a rich, buttery flavor and a hint of vanilla in every bite.

The texture is light yet satisfying, and the golden exterior provides a gentle crisp that contrasts beautifully with the fluffy inside. The icing adds sweetness and a fun touch with colorful sprinkles.

The recipe is approachable, letting you enjoy homemade doughnuts without complicated steps. Each batch comes out consistent, flavorful, and visually appealing, making it a treat that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat.

How To Prepare Vanilla Cake Doughnuts Recipe?

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes (per batch if frying)

Total Time: 25 minutes

Course: Dessert / Snack

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: About 10 doughnuts

Kitchen Utensils

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Sifter
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Doughnut cutter or two round cutters
• Frying pan or deep fryer
• Slotted spoon
• Cooling rack
• Small bowl for icing
• Spoon or spatula for decorating

Ingredients

For the doughnuts:

• ¾ cup buttermilk (see note below)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste

For the icing:

• 3 tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• ½ cup rainbow sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough:

In a large bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla bean paste until smooth.

2. Combine wet and dry ingredients:

Slowly add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to over mix; the batter should be slightly thick but smooth.

3. Chill the batter (optional but recommended):

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes. This helps make the doughnuts easier to shape and fry.

4. Shape the doughnuts:

Lightly flour a clean surface. Roll out the dough to about ½-inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter (or two round cutters for the center hole) to cut out doughnuts. Gather scraps, reroll, and cut out additional doughnuts.

5. Heat the oil:

In a deep fryer or large pan, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Make sure there’s enough oil to allow doughnuts to float.

6. Fry the doughnuts:

Carefully place doughnuts in the hot oil. Fry for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a cooling rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

7. Prepare the icing:

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, heavy cream (or milk), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth. The consistency should be thick but pourable.

8. Glaze and decorate:

Dip the top of each cooled doughnut into the icing, letting excess drip off. Immediately sprinkle with rainbow sprinkles before the icing sets. Allow to set for a few minutes, then serve.

Nutrition Facts Of Vanilla Cake Doughnuts Recipe

Nutrition	Amount
Calories	290 kcal
Carbohydrates	45 g
Protein	5 g
Fat	10 g
Saturated Fat	5 g
Sugar	25 g

Why My Recipe Works

My vanilla cake doughnuts recipe works because it balances texture, flavor, and moisture. The buttermilk tenderizes the dough, keeping the cake doughnuts soft and light.

The right amount of baking powder ensures they rise evenly without becoming dense. Eggs and melted butter add richness and structure, while sugar and vanilla bean paste provide natural sweetness and a deep, aromatic flavor.

Frying at the correct temperature creates a golden crust without absorbing excess oil. The icing sets beautifully on top, adding sweetness and visual appeal. Small adjustments I made enhance color, flavor, and texture, making each doughnut consistently delicious.

What To Serve With Vanilla Cake Doughnuts Recipe

Vanilla cake doughnuts recipe pair beautifully with a variety of drinks and accompaniments. Serve them warm with a cup of coffee, latte, or hot chocolate for a cozy breakfast or brunch treat.

They also work well with cold milk, chai tea, or a creamy cappuccino. For extra indulgence, plate them with fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas, or drizzle additional icing or chocolate sauce on top.

These doughnuts can be part of a dessert platter alongside muffins, cookies, or pastries, making them a fun and colorful option for gatherings or celebrations.

When To Serve

Vanilla cake doughnuts recipe can be served any time of day. They are perfect for breakfast or brunch, enjoyed fresh and warm alongside coffee or tea.

They also work as a mid-morning or afternoon snack, offering a sweet pick-me-up. These doughnuts make a festive addition to dessert tables for parties, gatherings, or special occasions.

Serving them right after frying ensures the soft texture and golden crust stay at their best, while glazing and sprinkling just before serving keeps them visually appealing and delicious. They can also be reheated slightly for later enjoyment.

Health Benefits

Vanilla cake doughnuts recipe are primarily an indulgent treat, but they do offer a few minor benefits. The eggs provide protein and essential vitamins like B12 and riboflavin, while milk or buttermilk adds calcium and vitamin D for bone health.

Using real vanilla adds natural flavor without artificial additives. If small amounts of butter are used, they contribute healthy fats that help with nutrient absorption.

While not a health food, enjoying these doughnuts in moderation can bring joy, satisfaction, and a homemade comfort experience, which supports mental well-being and the pleasure of sharing food with others.

My Baking Tips

1. I always let my eggs, butter, and buttermilk sit out for a bit. It makes the batter silky and the doughnuts tender every time.

2. I never skip sifting flour, baking powder, and salt. It keeps the texture light and prevents lumps in the dough.

3. Over mixing makes doughnuts tough. I fold ingredients just until combined for a soft, airy result.

4. I keep it around 350°F. It’s the sweet spot for golden, non-greasy doughnuts.

5. I place doughnuts on a rack over paper towels so they stay crisp outside but soft inside.

6. I dip them slightly warm so the icing sets nicely and sticks without sliding off.

Additions And Variations

◆ Chocolate Glaze: Dip the cooled doughnuts in a smooth, melted chocolate glaze or chocolate ganache. The rich chocolate flavor pairs perfectly with the soft vanilla cake, creating an indulgent dessert those chocolate lovers will adore.

◆ Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Instead of icing, roll the warm doughnuts in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar. The warmth of the doughnuts melts the sugar slightly, creating a sweet, slightly crunchy exterior with a cozy, spiced flavor.

◆ Fruit Fillings: Hollow out the center of the doughnuts and fill them with jam, lemon curd, or chocolate spread. Each bite reveals a burst of flavor, turning simple doughnuts into a fruity or chocolaty treat.

◆ Nut Toppings: Sprinkle finely chopped nuts like almonds, pistachios, or pecans over the icing. This adds texture, crunch, and a subtle nutty flavor that enhances the overall experience.

◆ Flavor Variations: Experiment with additions to the batter, such as citrus zest, cocoa powder, or a hint of coffee. These subtle changes create a unique twist on classic vanilla doughnuts, giving them a fresh and personalized flavor profile.

Storage Instructions

Store vanilla cake doughnuts recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and softness.

If you want to keep them longer, wrap each vanilla cake doughnuts recipe individually in plastic wrap and place them in a resalable freezer bag, then freeze for up to 1 month.

To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the oven for a few minutes. Avoid refrigerating doughnuts, as this can dry them out and make them less tender.

Keep icing-covered vanilla cake doughnuts recipe separate from sprinkles if storing to prevent them from sticking or losing texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

This vanilla cake doughnuts recipe is truly delicious, and everyone who tries it enjoys every bite. I make this recipe often for serving, and each time I prepare it, I enjoy the process as much as the results.

The vanilla cake doughnuts recipe turn out soft, golden, and full of rich vanilla flavor, with a fun, colorful glaze that makes them irresistible.

I’m sharing my easy, step-by-step method so others can recreate it at home. I hope this inspires you to try making these vanilla cake doughnuts recipe and enjoy them as much as I do.

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