Dunkin Donuts Sour Cream Donut Recipe

Imagine indulging in a freshly fried Dunkin’ Donuts sour cream donut while sipping on a hot cup of coffee. The rich, creamy flavors meld perfectly to create a delightful experience.

You might also choose a refreshing iced tea or a zesty lemonade to balance the sweetness. Need an afternoon snack? Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—it’s a match made in dessert heaven!

Now, let’s prepare to dive into this delicious treat.

Best Dunkin Donuts Sour Cream Donut Recipe

I distinctly remember my first encounter with the Dunkin’ Donuts sour cream donut. It was one rainy Saturday morning, and my cravings for something sweet overpowered my sense of restraint. I ventured to my local Dunkin’ where the warm smell of brewed coffee and pastries wafted through the air. That’s when I spotted it.

This unassuming yet perfectly fried donut, dusted with sugar and filled with a sense of nostalgia, caught my eye. After one bite, I was hooked! The tanginess from the sour cream mixed with the warmth of spices created a flavor explosion. It’s a donut that has stood the test of time and remains a classic favorite.

But what is it about this particular donut that makes it so special? Why does it work so well? Let’s break it down.

Why This Recipe Works

There are several factors that make the Dunkin’ Donuts sour cream donut a standout.

1. Perfect Balance of Flavor
The sour cream lends a pleasant tang that cuts through the sweetness. You get the delicate dusting of sugar along with nutmeg and cinnamon, all working harmoniously. This makes each bite complex and satisfying.

2. Cloud-like Texture
The use of cake flour in the recipe creates a light, tender crumb. This isn’t a heavy donut. It’s soft, airy, and melts in your mouth. You might even find it hard to stop at just one!

3. Easy to Make
Don’t let the thought of frying scare you. This recipe simplifies the process. With just a few common ingredients, you can recreate this delightful donut at home without needing to be a professional baker.

4. Endless Possibilities
While the traditional glaze is delightful, this donut is a blank canvas. You can coat it in chocolate, sprinkle it with nuts, or top it with fruity icing. The options are as limitless as your imagination.

How Does It Taste Like?

The taste of a Dunkin’ Donuts sour cream donut can only be described as divine. The sweetness of the glaze contrasts with the slightly sour undertone of the donut, creating a balanced profile. If you’ve ever enjoyed a cake that seems to wrap you in a cozy embrace, you’ll find a similar feeling here.

The powdered sugar glaze adds a gentle sweetness without overwhelming the palate. The subtle hints of nutmeg and cinnamon round out the experience, making this not just a donut but a true indulgence.

What Sets This Recipe Apart from Other Dunkin’ Donuts Sour Cream Donut Variations?

What truly distinguishes this recipe is its simplicity combined with authenticity. Many stores attempt to replicate the sour cream donut but often miss the mark on flavor or texture. This homemade recipe ensures you’re using quality ingredients.

Here’s what makes this version shine:

The use of full-fat sour cream enhances the moistness of the donut.
Freshly grated nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile compared to pre-ground options.
Perfect heating oil ensures crispness without greasiness, setting it apart from typical mass-produced donuts.

The Ingredients

Before we dive into the preparation, let’s familiarize ourselves with the core ingredients you’ll need:

For the Donuts:

2 large egg yolks
2 tablespoons (29 grams) unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
½ cup (113 grams) full-fat sour cream
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
2¼ cups (255 grams) cake flour
1½ teaspoons baking powder
½ cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
Canola oil, for deep frying

For the Glaze:

3½ cups (350 grams) powdered sugar, sifted
1½ teaspoons corn syrup
¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
⅓ cup hot water
½ teaspoon vanilla bean extract

Instructions

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty—here’s how to whip up these delightful donuts step by step.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by whisking the egg yolks and butter in a large mixing bowl until they’re well combined. Pour in the sour cream and mix it in. You’ll want the mixture to be creamy and smooth. Sifting in the cake flour, baking powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, salt, and sugar, gently fold everything together until you see no dry flour. It’s important not to overmix; you want a soft dough that you can handle.

Step 2: Shape the Donuts

Once your dough is ready, sprinkle some flour onto your countertop. Transfer the dough onto the floured surface and roll it out to about ½ inch thickness. Grab a donut cutter or two cookie cutters—a larger one for the outer circle and a smaller one for the hole—and cut out your donuts. Don’t discard the holes! You can fry those too for donut holes.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a deep skillet or pot, heat your canola oil. Use a thermometer to check the temperature—around 350°F (175°C) is ideal for frying. If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of dough into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, you’re good to go.

Step 4: Fry the Donuts

Carefully slide a few donuts into the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. Aim for that perfect coloration! Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked donuts to a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze

While your donuts cool slightly, mix your glaze. In a bowl, whisk together the sifted powdered sugar, corn syrup, salt, hot water, and vanilla extract until smooth. Dip each donut into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip back into the bowl. Place them on a wire rack to set.

Notes

Double-check the temperature of the oil: Too hot and the outside cooks too quickly; too cool and they absorb too much oil.
Don’t rush the cooling before glazing; warm donuts absorb the glaze better.
Experiment with spices: If you want a bit of a kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne for a surprising heat.
Store them in an airtight container to keep the freshness.
Consider adding toppings: Don’t shy away from sprinkles or chopped nuts for extra flair!

Easy Dunkin Donuts Sour Cream Donut Recipe

How Do You Store This Dunkin’ Donuts Sour Cream Donut?

Storing your homemade Dunkin’ Donuts sour cream donuts properly is crucial to retaining their deliciousness. Here’s how:

Room Temperature: Keep them in an airtight container and consume them within 1-2 days.
Refrigeration: If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week, but note they may lose some freshness.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to a month. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw and reheat in a microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Sides for Dunkin’ Donuts Sour Cream Donut

To elevate your donut experience, consider these side options:

1. Fresh Fruit
A bowl of mixed berries or a sliced apple adds a refreshing contrast. The tartness from the fruit complements the sweetness of the donut perfectly.

2. Nut Butter
Spread almond or peanut butter on half a donut for a delightful combination of creaminess and crunch. The protein boost is an added bonus!

3. Yogurt Parfait
Layering yogurt with granola and fresh fruits can create a balanced meal. Pairing the donut with a yogurt parfait gives you a wholesome, delicious breakfast option.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

Sometimes, life throws you a curveball, and you don’t have all the ingredients on hand. Here are some substitutions you can make with ease:

1. Sour Cream Substitutes
Plain yogurt can do the trick if sour cream is unavailable. It offers a similar tanginess. Alternatively, buttermilk can also be a decent choice.

2. Cake Flour
If you’re out of cake flour, making your own is easy. For every cup of all-purpose flour, remove two tablespoons and replace them with cornstarch. This will give you a lighter texture.

3. Nutmeg and Cinnamon
Don’t fret if you lack nutmeg. Just bump up the cinnamon or use pumpkin spice for a unique twist!

4. Corn Syrup
Instead of corn syrup in the glaze, you can use honey or agave syrup. It won’t be quite the same, but it’ll add a delightful sweetness nonetheless.

Anna Warden

I distinctly remember my first encounter with the Dunkin’ Donuts sour cream donut. It was one rainy Saturday morning, and my cravings for something sweet overpowered my sense of restraint.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 25

Total Time 40

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings Servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

skillet