
why make this recipe
Old Fashioned Donut Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the classic flavors of homemade donuts. It is a perfect treat for coffee breaks, special occasions, or simply to enjoy at home. This cake is soft, moist, and has a hint of nutmeg that adds warmth and nostalgia. It’s easy to make and requires no deep frying, making it a simple yet satisfying option for any baker.
how to make Old Fashioned Donut Cake
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for drizzle)
- 2 tablespoons milk (for drizzle)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for drizzle)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan.
- In a bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg. Set aside.
- In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract.
- Alternately add the flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the drizzle, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Drizzle over the cooled cake before serving. Enjoy your delicious old fashioned donut cake warm!
how to serve Old Fashioned Donut Cake
Serve the Old Fashioned Donut Cake as a sweet treat for breakfast or brunch. It also makes a great dessert with a cup of coffee or tea. You can slice it into wedges and serve it on a nice plate. Adding fresh fruit or whipped cream can make it even more special!
how to store Old Fashioned Donut Cake
If you have leftovers, store the Old Fashioned Donut Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Make sure to cover it well to keep it moist.
tips to make Old Fashioned Donut Cake
- Make sure your butter is softened for easier mixing.
- Use fresh nutmeg for a better flavor.
- Don’t skip cooling the cake properly before drizzling; it helps the glaze stick better.
- You can also add chocolate chips or nuts to the batter for extra flavor.
variation
You can make a chocolate version of Old Fashioned Donut Cake by replacing some of the flour with cocoa powder. You can also substitute the buttermilk with yogurt for a different texture.
FAQs
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
Can I freeze Old Fashioned Donut Cake?
Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.

Old Fashioned Donut Cake
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
Drizzle Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan.
- In a bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg. Set aside.
- In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract.
- Alternately add the flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top.
Baking
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Drizzle Preparation
- For the drizzle, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Drizzle over the cooled cake before serving. Enjoy your delicious old fashioned donut cake warm!