If you’re a fan of classic bakery treats with a twist, you are going to absolutely fall in love with this Sour Cream Glazed Donuts Recipe. These donuts boast a delicate crumb thanks to sour cream, which adds moisture and a subtle tang, perfectly balanced by the sweet, shiny glaze that shimmers atop each golden ring. Whether you’re looking for a special breakfast treat or an irresistible snack to impress friends, this recipe delivers that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture paired with an easy-to-make glaze that elevates every bite. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be craving them again and again.

The image shows several round donuts with a thick white glaze covering most of their surfaces, sitting closely together on a white plate. Each donut has a rough, bumpy texture beneath the smooth glaze, showing a golden-brown color peeking through the icing in places. One donut at the front has a small piece broken off, revealing a soft, crumbly inside with the same golden-brown tone. The donuts have a hole in the middle and the glaze looks shiny and slightly uneven, enhancing their homemade look. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Sour Cream Glazed Donuts Recipe plays a starring role in crafting the perfect balance of fluffiness, flavor, and that iconic donut color and crunch. They’re straightforward, pantry-friendly, and come together beautifully to make a timeless dessert.

All-purpose flour (2 cups): Provides structure and that classic donut bite, measured carefully for the best texture.
Cornstarch (1/4 cup): Lightens the dough, making the donuts tender and delicate.
Baking powder (1 1/2 tsp): Gives the donuts a gentle rise for fluffiness without heaviness.
Baking soda (1/2 tsp): Works alongside the baking powder to ensure perfect leavening.
Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Ground nutmeg (1/2 tsp optional): Adds a warm hint of spice that brings nostalgia to every bite.
Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the dough and caramelizes beautifully during frying.
Unsalted butter (2 tbsp, melted): Brings richness and slight flakiness to the dough.
Egg (1 large) and egg yolk (1): Bind the ingredients together while ensuring a tender crumb.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds depth and an inviting aroma.
Full-fat sour cream (2/3 cup): The star ingredient that makes these donuts irresistibly moist and flavorful.
Neutral oil (for frying): Like vegetable or canola oil, perfect for frying to golden perfection.
Powdered sugar (2 cups): The base of the luscious glaze that dresses each donut.
Water (3 to 4 tbsp): Used to create the smooth, glossy glaze—adjust for your preferred consistency.

How to Make Sour Cream Glazed Donuts Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and the optional nutmeg in a medium bowl. This combination is vital to creating that tender donut texture. Make sure everything is evenly combined so your donuts have consistent flavor and rise.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a larger bowl, whisk together sugar and melted butter until moistened and crumbly. Then, add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, mixing well before whisking in the sour cream. The sour cream is key here, adding richness and a slight tang that sets these donuts apart from the rest.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry

Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and gently stir until the dough comes together into a sticky ball. Be careful not to overmix as overworking the dough will result in tougher donuts, and we want them tender, light, and fluffy.

Step 4: Roll and Cut Donuts

Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough out to about a quarter-inch thick. Use a floured 2 1/2 inch donut cutter to cut out your donuts. Place the cut donuts on a lightly floured parchment paper and re-roll scraps until all the dough is used—this recipe should yield 10 to 12 donuts.

Step 5: Fry the Donuts

Heat about two inches of neutral oil in a heavy pot to 375°F. Fry the donuts in batches, frying each side for around 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan so they cook evenly and get that perfect golden crust. Once fried, transfer the donuts to a cooling rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Make the Glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar and three tablespoons of water in a bowl to create a smooth glaze. Adjust with more water if needed until it reaches a glossy but not runny consistency. The glaze is simple but transforms these donuts into an irresistible treat.

Step 7: Glaze the Donuts

When the donuts have cooled just enough to handle, dip the top of each into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off before setting them on a wire rack. Let the glaze set briefly for that perfectly shiny finish.

How to Serve Sour Cream Glazed Donuts Recipe

Four round donuts with soft, airy texture covered in a smooth, white glaze with a shiny, slightly thick look. One donut is broken in half, showing a light, fluffy inside with small holes and spongy texture, while the smooth glaze coats the top and edges of all donuts. They are stacked close together on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

You can keep it classic by leaving these donuts unadorned so the glaze shines, or sprinkle on crushed nuts, colorful sprinkles, or a dusting of cinnamon for a fun twist. Fresh berries on the side also add a lovely contrast of color and flavor that brightens each bite.

Side Dishes

Serve these donuts with a steaming cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a glass of cold milk for a comforting combo. They pair wonderfully with fruit salads, yogurt parfaits, or even a thick slice of buttery breakfast bacon if you like mixing sweet and savory.

Creative Ways to Present

Imagine stacking them on a rustic wooden board with assorted toppings and making them the centerpiece of a brunch spread. You can even frost individual donuts with flavored glazes like chocolate or caramel to surprise your guests. A donut tower with layers of sour cream glazed donuts topped with fresh fruits and edible flowers is sure to wow at any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them fresh, allowing the delicate glaze and soft crumb to stay intact without getting soggy or stale.

Freezing

These donuts freeze beautifully. Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to two months. When you want a sweet treat, simply thaw at room temperature for about an hour.

Reheating

To refresh frozen or stored donuts, warm them briefly in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F for 5 to 7 minutes. This revives the texture, making them taste just as delightful as fresh and gently softens the glaze without melting it away.

FAQs

Can I bake these sour cream glazed donuts instead of frying?

Yes! While frying gives a classic crispy exterior, baking the donuts at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes will produce tender, cakey donuts, though they won’t have the same crunch. Be sure to watch them closely to avoid drying out.

Why is sour cream used in this donut recipe?

Sour cream adds moisture and a slight tang, which makes these donuts delectable and keeps them soft longer. It also contributes fat that enriches the dough, enhancing flavor and crumb texture.

Can I use low-fat or fat-free sour cream?

For the best results, full-fat sour cream is recommended because it adds richness and moisture. Low-fat versions might yield a slightly drier donut with less flavor.

What can I do if I don’t have a donut cutter?

If you’re without a donut cutter, two round cookie cutters or drinking glasses of different sizes work well to cut out the donut shape and the hole in the middle. Just be sure to flour them to prevent sticking.

How thick should I roll out the dough?

About 1/4 inch thick is ideal—thin enough to fry quickly to golden perfection but thick enough to remain soft and fluffy inside.

Final Thoughts

Making this Sour Cream Glazed Donuts Recipe is a joyful experience that fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of freshly fried dough and sweet glaze. It’s approachable, yet the results feel special—an irresistible treat perfect for sharing, celebration, or simply indulging yourself. I hope you give these donuts a try soon and make them a beloved recipe in your own kitchen as they are in mine!