Cloud Nine Doughnuts with Secret Butterscotch Drizzle

Have you ever tasted something so delightful, so utterly perfect, that it felt like floating on a cloud? That’s precisely the sensation you’ll experience with these Cloud Nine Doughnuts. Seriously! These aren’t your average doughnuts; they’re a homemade treat elevated with a luscious, almost-secret butterscotch drizzle that will make you question all other doughnuts you’ve ever eaten. Prepare to enter doughnut nirvana!

I stumbled upon this recipe quite by accident, tweaking and refining it until it reached its current state of perfection. Trust me; you need these in your life. These Cloud Nine Doughnuts, with their perfect pillowy texture and that unforgettable butterscotch drizzle, are ideal for a weekend brunch, a special occasion, or simply a “just because” treat. They’re surprisingly easy to make, and the results are nothing short of extraordinary. Let’s dive in and learn how to make these incredible doughnuts!

Ingredients for Cloud Nine Doughnuts with Secret Butterscotch Drizzle

Here’s what you’ll need to create these heavenly doughnuts. Don’t be intimidated by the list; most ingredients are pantry staples!

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of our doughnuts, providing structure and that characteristic fluffy texture. For a gluten-free version, you can experiment with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning during frying.
1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A touch of warmth and spice that complements the butterscotch beautifully. Freshly grated nutmeg is even better!
1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast: The magic ingredient that makes our doughnuts rise and become light and airy. Make sure it’s not expired!
3/4 cup milk, warmed: Provides moisture and activates the yeast. Ensure it’s warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast. Dairy-free milk alternatives like almond or soy milk work well too.
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled: Adds richness and flavor to the dough. Melted coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free option.
2 large eggs: Contribute to the dough’s richness and structure.
Vegetable oil, for frying: Choose a neutral-tasting oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or vegetable oil.

Ingredients for the Secret Butterscotch Drizzle:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Forms the base of our luscious drizzle. Again, browned butter takes it to the next level!
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar: Provides the signature butterscotch flavor and sweetness.
1/4 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and helps create a smooth, pourable drizzle. Coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free option.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the butterscotch flavor and adds a touch of warmth. Use pure vanilla extract for the best results.
Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out the other flavors.

Step-by-Step Directions for Making Cloud Nine Doughnuts

Ready to embark on your doughnut-making journey? Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll be rewarded with the most delicious Cloud Nine Doughnuts you’ve ever tasted!

Whisk the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and nutmeg. This ensures that everything is evenly distributed.
Activate the yeast: In a separate bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast might be old and you’ll need to get fresh yeast.
Combine wet ingredients: Add the melted butter and eggs to the yeast mixture and whisk to combine. Make sure the butter has cooled slightly so it doesn’t cook the eggs.
Form the dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until a shaggy dough forms. Don’t overmix at this stage; just combine until everything is moistened.
Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Kneading develops the gluten, which gives the doughnuts their chewy texture. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This allows the yeast to do its work, creating a light and airy dough.
Make the Secret Butterscotch Drizzle: While the dough is rising, let’s create that amazing butterscotch drizzle. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. For a deeper flavor, consider browning the butter slightly before adding the brown sugar. Just be careful not to burn it!
Dissolve the sugar: Stir in the brown sugar and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
Add the cream: Gradually whisk in the heavy cream. Bringing it together slowly will help it become a smooth sauce.
Simmer the drizzle: Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly. Be careful not to overcook it, as it will continue to thicken as it cools.
Finish the drizzle: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Set aside to cool slightly. The vanilla enhances all the other flavors and the salt balances the sweetness.
Punch down the dough: Once the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release the air.
Roll and cut the doughnuts: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter or two different-sized round cutters to cut out doughnuts. If you don’t have a doughnut cutter, a biscuit cutter and a small shot glass will do the trick!
Second rise: Place the doughnuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the doughnuts with plastic wrap and let rise for 30-40 minutes. This second rise is crucial for achieving a light and airy texture.
Heat the oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. Maintaining the correct temperature is essential for frying the doughnuts properly.
Fry the doughnuts: Carefully lower the doughnuts into the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the pot, as this will lower the oil temperature.
Drain the doughnuts: Remove the doughnuts from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack to drain.
Drizzle time!: While the doughnuts are still warm, dip them in the Secret Butterscotch Drizzle. Make sure to let the excess drip off.
Serve and enjoy: Enjoy immediately while still warm!

Expert Tips & Serving Suggestions for Perfect Cloud Nine Doughnuts

Want to take your doughnut game to the next level? Here are some expert tips and serving suggestions to help you create the ultimate Cloud Nine Doughnut experience.

Make-Ahead Tip: The butterscotch drizzle can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before using. The dough can also be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated after the first rise. Just punch it down and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before rolling and cutting.
Serving Suggestions: These doughnuts are fantastic on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of beverages. Enjoy them with a cup of hot coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk. For a more decadent treat, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Storage Recommendations: Store leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but they can be reheated briefly in the microwave for a few seconds to restore some of their warmth and softness.
Reheating Techniques: To reheat the doughnuts, microwave them for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat them, as they can become tough. You can also reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
Variations: Get creative with your doughnut toppings! Try adding sprinkles, chopped nuts, or a dusting of powdered sugar. You can also experiment with different flavor extracts in the butterscotch drizzle, such as maple or almond.
Baker’s Secret: For extra fluffy doughnuts, use a tangzhong! A what? I know, that sounds crazy. A tangzhong is a roux of flour and water (or milk) that is added to bread or doughnut dough that helps them bake up softer and stay soft longer. Check out a youtube video of a tangzhong recipe and incorporate it into the dough here.

Now it’s your turn! I encourage you to try this recipe for Cloud Nine Doughnuts. It’s an experience you don’t want to miss. And I am sure you will want to make these homemade doughnuts often! Don’t forget to share your creations and experiences in the comments below. Happy baking!

Frequently Asked Questions About Making Cloud Nine Doughnuts

Got questions about making these delightful Cloud Nine Doughnuts? Here are some answers to common queries to help you achieve doughnut perfection.

Why aren’t my doughnuts rising?

Several factors can affect the rising of your doughnuts. First, ensure your yeast is fresh and active. If the milk is too hot when you add the yeast, it can kill it. Also, the room temperature can play a role; a warmer environment promotes faster rising. Finally, make sure you haven’t added too much flour, as this can make the dough too dense.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast. Simply add it directly to the dry ingredients without proofing it in milk first. Use the same amount as the active dry yeast called for in the recipe.

What’s the best oil for frying doughnuts?

Choose a neutral-tasting oil with a high smoke point, such as canola, vegetable, or peanut oil. These oils won’t impart any unwanted flavors to the doughnuts and can withstand the high heat of frying.

How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature?

Use a candy thermometer to monitor the oil temperature. It should be around 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough into it. If it bubbles vigorously and turns golden brown in 1-2 minutes, the oil is ready.

Why are my doughnuts greasy?

Greasy doughnuts are usually the result of frying them at too low a temperature. The oil isn’t hot enough to seal the surface quickly, so the doughnuts absorb more oil. Make sure to maintain the oil temperature around 350°F (175°C).

Can I bake these doughnuts instead of frying them?

While these are best fried, you can bake them. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the risen doughnuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep in mind that baked doughnuts will have a different texture than fried ones. They will not be quite as soft and airy. The overall taste of the doughnuts recipe will still be delicious though!

How do I prevent the butterscotch drizzle from crystallizing?

Crystallization can occur if the sugar isn’t fully dissolved or if the sauce is overcooked. Make sure to stir the brown sugar constantly while it’s melting and cook the sauce gently. Adding a tablespoon of corn syrup can also help prevent crystallization.

Can I make these doughnuts gluten-free?

Yes, you can try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour. However, gluten-free flours can behave differently, so you may need to adjust the amount of liquid in the recipe. It’s also recommended to add some xanthan gum to the flour blend to improve the texture of the doughnuts.

How long do these doughnuts stay fresh?

These doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh, but they will stay good for up to 2 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. The butterscotch drizzle may soften the doughnuts slightly over time.

Can I freeze these doughnuts?

Yes, you can freeze the doughnuts, but it’s best to freeze them before adding the butterscotch drizzle. Wrap the un-drizzled doughnuts individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature and then drizzle with freshly made butterscotch sauce before serving.

Can I make the dough in a bread machine?

Yes, you can use a bread machine to make the dough. Place all the dough ingredients into the bread machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Select the dough setting and let the machine do its work. Once the dough cycle is complete, proceed with the recipe as directed, starting with punching down the dough and rolling it out.

Can I use different types of sugar in the butterscotch drizzle?

While light brown sugar is traditional for butterscotch, you can experiment with dark brown sugar for a richer, molasses-like flavor. Granulated sugar is not recommended as it will not provide the characteristic butterscotch flavor. The butterscotch drizzle is part of what makes this doughnuts recipe so great. Have fun experimenting!

In Conclusion: Your Doughnut Adventure Awaits!

There you have it – the recipe for Cloud Nine Doughnuts with that irresistibly Secret Butterscotch Drizzle. This recipe is all about bringing a bit of joy and a whole lot of flavor to your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these doughnuts are sure to impress. The light, airy texture combined with the rich, buttery sweetness of the drizzle makes for a truly unforgettable treat.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with your own variations. Add sprinkles, nuts, or different flavor extracts to make these doughnuts your own. The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process. And please, when you make them, don’t keep this delightful secret to yourself – share your doughnut creations with friends, family, and even on social media!

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to embark on your doughnut adventure. We can’t wait to hear about your experiences. Please leave a comment below and let us know how your Cloud Nine Doughnuts turned out!