Celebrate National Doughnut Day with a Mouthwatering Gluten-Free Cinnamon Sugar Doughnut Recipe
We’ve designated today to talk about all things Doughnuts! Doughnut enthusiasts from all walks of life—come celebrate this special day by remember the fascinating history behind these delectable treats. In honor of Doughnut Day, we present a mouthwatering gluten-free donut recipe that allows everyone to partake in the joy of doughnuts while diving into their intriguing past.
A Brief History of Doughnuts: They have a rich and storied history that dates back centuries. The origins of this beloved treat can be found in various cultures and countries throughout history. One theory suggests that the first doughnuts were created by Dutch settlers in the 18th century, who brought with them a deep-fried pastry known as “oliebollen.” These early doughnuts were balls of dough cooked in hot oil and often filled with fruits or nuts.
Fast forward to the mid-19th century, and the term “doughnut” became popular in the United States. Legend has it that a young American named Hanson Gregory invented the classic ring-shaped doughnut we know today. As the story goes, Hanson disliked the greasiness of the doughnut centers, so he used a tin pepperbox to punch out the middle, creating the familiar doughnut shape with its signature hole. This innovation not only led to a more evenly cooked and less dense pastry but also opened the door to endless possibilities for creative fillings and toppings.
Fast forward – even more – to TODAY. Donut innovation continues, specifically in the gluten-free realm. You can find a delicious assortment of GFCO-certified gluten-free donuts in a store near you, at GFFS Validated Gluten-Free Safe Spot Bakeries, or make your very own.
Here’s a delicious recipe to try:
Gluten-Free Cinnamon Sugar Doughnut
Ingredients:
- 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour blend
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or dairy-free alternative)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or dairy-free alternative), melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil (or oil of choice) for frying
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Directions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, almond flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as it can result in dense doughnuts.
Preheat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 350°F (175°C).
Spoon the doughnut batter into a piping bag or a plastic bag with the corner snipped off. Pipe the batter into the preheated oil, forming a 3-inch (7.5 cm) doughnut. You can also use a spoon to carefully drop the batter into the oil.
Fry the doughnuts for approximately 2–3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the doughnuts from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the topping. While the doughnuts are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until coated.
Repeat the frying and coating processes with the remaining batter.
Serve the gluten-free cinnamon sugar doughnuts warm and enjoy!
As we celebrate the deliciousness of these delightful treats, let’s also appreciate the remarkable history that has brought us to this point. From their humble beginnings to the innovative creations we enjoy today, doughnuts (or “donuts”) have captivated the hearts and taste buds of people worldwide. So, as you savor the gluten-free goodness of our cinnamon sugar doughnuts, take a moment to reflect on the journey that has made doughnuts an enduring symbol of indulgence and joy.