Brigham's Buttermilk Doughnuts

Rumor has it that this recipe belonged to the wife of Brigham Young.  The signature ingredient is Nutmeg.  It was one of the main spices used in the olden days.  These are really simple to make. Although be prepared to be covered in flour before you are through!  That's the best part though right?

I wanted to post this recipe today, to celebrate our very special holiday coming up, Pioneer Day.  We used to make this as a family every year on the 24th of July.  It has been a fun tradition to pass on to my kids.  It's also a fun one to let the kids help with.  You can let them help you cut out the doughnuts and the doughnut holes, while you do the frying. 

I usually use regular buttermilk to make these, but recently decided just to make my own.  See the notes below.  Its works well either way. 

Brigham’s Buttermilk Doughnuts

2 C. buttermilk (see notes below)

2 Lg eggs, beaten

1 C. sugar

5 C. sifted flour

2 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. salt

1 tsp. grated nutmeg

¼ C. melted butter or shortening

Combine buttermilk, eggs and sugar and blend well. Beat in sifted dry ingredients, then stir in melted butter. Roll or pat dough on floured surface about ¼ inch thick and cut with 2 ½ inch doughnut cutter. (see below) Fry in hot fat (375 degrees F.) until golden brown on both sides.  Drain and sprinkle with sugar if desired. Makes 2 dozen doughnuts.

Tip: To make your own buttermilk just combine 1 tbsp lemon juice per 1 cup milk. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes.

Tip:  You will need a decent amount of flour on your counter before rolling out the dough.  Try not to add too much extra as you go, you don't want them to get dried out or heavy. 

Tip: If you don't have a doughnut cutter, just you a mason jar lid.  For the doughnut hole, use a water bottle lid or something similar. 

After frying until golden brown on both sides. Remove from oil and drain on a paper towel. Roll in sugar, cinnamon and sugar, powdered sugar or just eat them plain. You can also make a simple glaze by adding a little bit of water to powdered sugar to make it the desired consistency.