Sour Cream Doughnuts: Soft, Golden, and Glazed to Perfection

Golden Edges, Pillowy Center, Glaze That Melts on Your Tongue

These Sour Cream Doughnuts are the kind that take you back—soft, rich, and just the right amount of sweet. Think crispy golden edges, a tender cake-like center, and a silky almond-vanilla glaze that clings in all the right places.

Crafted by TikTok’s own @tinabcookingitup, this recipe is simple but delivers big-time nostalgia. Whether you’re baking for brunch, a weekend treat, or just craving something warm and homemade, these doughnuts come through with comfort and classic flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

Doughnuts

• 2 cups cake flour
• 1½ tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 egg yolks, room temperature
• 6 oz sour cream
• ½ tsp almond extract
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ⅛–¼ tsp nutmeg
• Canola oil, for frying

Glaze

• Whole milk, enough to reach a creamy glaze consistency
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• ½ tsp almond extract
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1–2 tbsp melted butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Doughnut Dough

1. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour to chill.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together cake flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg.
3. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each.
5. Stir in sour cream, vanilla, and almond extract until combined.
6. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until a thick dough forms.

Step 2: Shape the Doughnuts

1. Transfer to a parchment-lined tray and let rest while the oil heats.
2. Lightly flour your surface and roll out the chilled dough to about ½ inch thick.
3. Use a doughnut cutter (or two round cutters) to cut out doughnut shapes.

Step 3: Fry the Doughnuts

1. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel–lined plate.
2. In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat canola oil to 330°F.
3. Carefully lower in a few doughnuts at a time.
4. Fry 1–2 minutes per side, depending on the size, until golden brown.

Step 4: Make the Glaze

1. Add whole milk, a tablespoon at a time, until the glaze is creamy and pourable.
2. In a bowl, combine powdered sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and almond extract.
3. Step 5: Glaze and Finish
4. Let them sit on a rack so the glaze can set with that perfect crackle.
5. While the doughnuts are still slightly warm, dip the tops into the glaze.

Pro Tips & Serving Suggestions

Make ahead: These are best the day of, but you can freeze the dough or doughnuts before glazing.

Chill the dough: It’s easier to roll, cut, and holds shape better when frying.

Control the oil temp: Keep it steady at 330°F to avoid greasy or undercooked centers.

Thin glaze? Thick glaze? Adjust the milk to your preference—thinner sets quickly, thicker clings more.

About the Creator

This sweet recipe comes from the kitchen of Tina, aka @tinabcookingitup—a home cook who brings warmth, nostalgia, and a whole lotta love to every dish. From desserts that make your grandma proud to down-home dinners with flair, Tina’s content is all about flavor that feels like home.

Follow her on TikTok for more craveable creations: tinabcookingitup

Tina | @tinabcookingitup