I’ve been on a quest to perfect the classic Shipley donut recipe, and today, I’m sharing with you a guide so thorough it might just blow your socks off! This isn’t just any donut recipe; it’s a deep dive into creating those irresistibly fluffy, slightly sweet wonders that can turn any morning into a celebration.

Shipley Donut Recipe Overview
- Course: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
- Total Servings: 12 donuts
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Before we get into the thick of things, you’ll need a few key pieces of equipment to make these Shipley donuts:
- Deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot
- Rolling pin
- Dough cutter or large round cookie cutter
- Slotted spoon
- Cooling rack
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
Sugar | 1/4 cup |
Baking powder | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
Baking soda | 1/4 teaspoon |
Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
Buttermilk | 3/4 cup |
Egg, beaten | 1 |
Unsalted butter, melted | 2 tablespoons |
Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
Nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon |
Oil for frying | As needed |
Fun Fact: Did you know that the original Shipley donut recipe dates back to the 1930s? It was crafted during the Great Depression as a means to bring a little joy into people’s lives.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, beaten egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Turn out the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently until smooth.
Note: Don’t overwork the dough; gentle hands make for lighter donuts!
Step 2 – Cut Out Donuts
- Roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness.
- Using a dough cutter, cut out donut shapes and place them on a lightly floured surface.
- Re-roll any scraps and continue cutting until all the dough is used.
Step 3 – Fry the Donuts
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C).
- Carefully place the donuts into the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the fryer!
- Fry until golden brown on each side, about 2 minutes per side.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the donuts to a cooling rack lined with paper towels to drain.
Warning: Keep a close eye on the fryer, and always keep a fire extinguisher nearby when frying!
Additional Tips
- For extra fluffy donuts, ensure your baking powder and soda are fresh.
- Adjust the heat as needed to keep the oil consistently hot.
Pairing Suggestions
What’s better than a fresh donut? A fresh donut with a perfect pairing! Here are a few:
- Freshly brewed coffee
- A tall glass of milk
- Hot chocolate
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Amount per serving |
---|---|
Calories | 210 |
Total Fat | 11g |
Cholesterol | 20mg |
Sodium | 125mg |
Total Carbs | 25g |
Protein | 3g |
Approximations based on frying conditions and oil absorption.
Dietary Information
This Shipley donut recipe is vegetarian-friendly. To make it dairy-free, substitute the buttermilk with a plant-based option and use vegan butter.
FAQs about Shipley Donut Recipe
What makes Shipley donuts unique?
Shipley donuts have a distinct lightness and a mild sweetness, setting them apart from heavier, overly sweet donuts.
How can I ensure my donuts are soft and not oily?
Maintain oil temperature and don’t overcrowd the fryer. This keeps the donuts from absorbing too much oil and becoming greasy.
Can I bake these donuts instead of frying?
Absolutely, though the texture will differ. Bake at 375°F for about 15 minutes or until golden.
What is the best way to store leftover Shipley donuts?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Can I add toppings to my Shipley donuts?
Yes, glazes, powdered sugar, and cinnamon sugar are fantastic options.
How do I make a chocolate version of this recipe?
Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients to make chocolate Shipley donuts.
Are there any tricks to getting the dough just right?
Yes, the key is not to overmix. Mix until just combined so your donuts will be tender.
Conclusion
There you have it, a foolproof guide to making the best Shipley donuts at home. They’re perfect for any occasion or no occasion at all!
If you’ve tried this recipe or have any questions or feedback, I’d love to hear from you in the comments below. Happy frying!
Check out some more delicious dessert recipes:
- Jeff Ruby Butter Pie Recipe
- Anne of Cleves Cake Recipe
- Edgars Strawberry Cake Recipe
- Bala Baiana Recipe
- Guyanese Pine Tart Recipe
- Patti LaBelle Banana Pudding Recipe

Shipley Donut Recipe
Equipment
- Deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot
- Rolling Pin
- Dough cutter or large round cookie cutter
- Slotted spoon
- Cooling rack
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup Sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 3/4 cup Buttermilk
- 1 Egg beaten
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter melted
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg
- As needed Oil for frying
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, beaten egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Turn out the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently until smooth.
- Note: Don’t overwork the dough; gentle hands make for lighter donuts!
Step 2 – Cut Out Donuts
- Roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness.
- Using a dough cutter, cut out donut shapes and place them on a lightly floured surface.
- Re-roll any scraps and continue cutting until all the dough is used.
Step 3 – Fry the Donuts
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C).
- Carefully place the donuts into the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the fryer!
- Fry until golden brown on each side, about 2 minutes per side.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the donuts to a cooling rack lined with paper towels to drain.
- Warning: Keep a close eye on the fryer, and always keep a fire extinguisher nearby when frying!
Notes
- For extra fluffy donuts, ensure your baking powder and soda are fresh.
- Adjust the heat as needed to keep the oil consistently hot.
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