Old-Fashioned Sugar-Dusted Biscuit Donuts are a nostalgic, no-fuss treat that brings the joy of homemade donuts without the need for complicated dough. Made from refrigerated biscuit dough, these donuts are fried to golden perfection and tossed in a simple sugar coating. Warm, tender, and sweet, they’re a quick and delightful indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These biscuit donuts are incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few ingredients and minimal prep time. There’s no yeast, no rising time, and no mixing bowls full of sticky dough. Just cut, fry, dust with sugar, and enjoy. They’re perfect for weekend breakfasts, brunch, or a surprise sweet treat that tastes like it came from an old-fashioned bakery.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Refrigerated biscuit dough (homestyle or buttermilk variety)
- Granulated sugar
- Ground cinnamon (optional)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for extra dusting)
Directions
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or saucepan to 350°F (175°C).
- Separate the biscuits and use a small round cutter to punch holes in the center of each one to form a donut shape.
- Gently drop a few donuts at a time into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry for 1–2 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- While still warm, roll the donuts in granulated sugar (mixed with cinnamon if desired).
- Serve warm, optionally dusted with powdered sugar.
Servings and timing
Servings: 8 donuts (plus donut holes)
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Cinnamon Sugar: Mix ground cinnamon with the sugar for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Glazed Donuts: Dip in a simple powdered sugar glaze instead of rolling in sugar.
- Chocolate Dip: Melt chocolate chips with a bit of cream and dip the donuts for a decadent finish.
- Stuffed Donuts: Inject with jam, chocolate, or cream filling after frying for a surprise center.
Storage/reheating
These donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. Reheat briefly in the microwave (10–15 seconds) or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes. Avoid refrigeration as it affects texture.
FAQs
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Baking is possible at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–12 minutes, but they won’t have the same crisp texture.
What kind of biscuit dough should I use?
Use regular refrigerated biscuit dough (not flaky layers) for the best donut-like texture.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough?
Use a thermometer or test with a small piece of dough—it should sizzle and float within a few seconds.
Can I reuse the oil?
Yes, strain and store the cooled oil for one or two more uses if desired.
Why are my donuts greasy?
Oil that is too cool will cause donuts to absorb excess oil. Keep the temperature steady at 350°F.
How can I make the donuts fluffier?
Don’t press down the dough—keep it light and puffy before frying.
Can I freeze these donuts?
Freezing is not recommended. They’re best eaten fresh or the same day.
What is the best sugar for coating?
Granulated sugar works best, but powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar are tasty alternatives.
Can kids help make these?
Yes, especially with cutting and coating. Always supervise during frying.
Do I need a donut cutter?
No, a small bottle cap or shot glass works perfectly to make the center holes.
Conclusion
Old-Fashioned Sugar-Dusted Biscuit Donuts are a quick, irresistible treat that delivers the taste of homemade donuts without the fuss of traditional dough. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and dusted in sugar, they’re a comforting bite of nostalgia that’s perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself.
PrintOld-Fashioned Sugar-Dusted Biscuit Donuts
Old-Fashioned Sugar-Dusted Biscuit Donuts are a nostalgic treat made from canned biscuit dough, fried until golden and rolled in sweet sugar. These quick and easy donuts bring the taste of a classic donut shop into your kitchen with minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 donuts + holes 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough (8 biscuits)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Separate the biscuits and use a small round cutter or bottle cap to cut out the centers to form donut shapes. Save the holes for frying as well.
- Heat 2–3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place a few donuts in the oil at a time, frying 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- In a shallow bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon (if using).
- While the donuts are still warm, roll them in the sugar mixture until coated.
- Serve warm and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Donut holes can be fried and sugared just like the full donuts.
- Best served fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 day.
- Try other coatings like powdered sugar or a quick glaze for variation.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—fry in batches for even cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg