When you think of donuts, you might imagine the colorful glazes, sprinkles, or sweet fillings. However, there’s a timeless, simple variety that stands out—the plain donut. It’s the donut in its purest form, with no added toppings, fillings, or decorations. So, what exactly is a plain donut called?
A plain donut is typically a donut without any additional flavors or toppings, making it a minimalist choice compared to its more decorated counterparts. Despite its simplicity, this type of donut has remained a staple in the world of pastries, enjoyed across America. Whether paired with coffee in the morning or enjoyed as a snack, plain donuts have their own charm.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what makes a plain donut so appealing, how it came to be, the different types of plain donuts, regional variations, and even how you can make your own at home. Plus, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about plain donuts to wrap it all up.
Let’s start with the basics: what is a plain donut and why do people love it so much?
What Is a Plain Donut?
A plain donut is simply a donut that lacks the bells and whistles that other donuts may have. There are no glazes, fillings, or additional flavors beyond the basic ingredients of the dough. This simplicity is what gives the plain donut its name.
The dough for a plain donut can either be made with yeast or with a cake batter, depending on the type of donut. We’ll dive into the specifics of these types later on. But the key thing to remember is that plain donuts are defined by their simplicity. No fancy flavors, no sugary toppings—just the donut itself.
You might be wondering, “Why would someone choose a plain donut over a glazed or filled one?” For many, it’s the pure, unadulterated flavor of the donut that makes it so enjoyable. The lack of sugar or toppings allows the true flavor of the dough to shine through, making it a perfect match for coffee or tea.
Types of Plain Donuts
There are two main types of plain donuts that you’ll come across:
- Cake Donuts: Cake donuts are made with a thick batter similar to cake, hence the name. They have a denser texture and are often fried until crispy on the outside while staying soft and crumbly on the inside. Cake donuts tend to have a buttery, rich flavor and are heavier compared to yeast donuts. If you’ve ever had an old-fashioned donut, you’ve likely experienced the texture and taste of a cake donut.
- Yeast Donuts: Yeast donuts are made with a dough that rises thanks to yeast. This gives them a lighter, fluffier texture than cake donuts. When left plain, yeast donuts offer a subtle sweetness and a soft, airy bite. They’re often the base for donuts with glazes or fillings, but when enjoyed plain, they have a unique appeal all on their own.
These two types of plain donuts provide different textures and experiences, making them appealing to different people. Cake donuts tend to be favored by those who enjoy a heartier bite, while yeast donuts are preferred by those who like something a bit lighter.
For more on the variety of donuts and how they differ, check out this helpful guide to different types of donuts, which breaks down the most common styles and their characteristics.
History of Plain Donuts
Donuts have a rich and fascinating history, particularly in the United States. While the exact origin of donuts is up for debate, it’s widely believed that they were brought to America by Dutch settlers in the 17th century. The original donuts were much simpler than the varieties we see today, and in many ways, the plain donut is a nod to those early recipes.
Over time, donuts evolved to include a wide range of flavors, toppings, and fillings, but the plain donut has remained a constant. Its simple, unadorned form is a reminder of the humble beginnings of this beloved pastry.
The Rise of Donut Shops in America
The popularity of donuts exploded in the early 20th century with the rise of donut shops across the United States. One of the most famous donut chains, Krispy Kreme, opened in 1937 and quickly became known for its light, fluffy yeast donuts. Dunkin’ Donuts, founded in 1950, also helped cement donuts as a quintessential American treat.
While many donut shops focused on creating more elaborate flavors, the plain donut continued to hold its own as a reliable and satisfying option. It became especially popular with those who wanted something less sweet, but still flavorful.
Donuts have since become a symbol of comfort and indulgence in American culture. Whether enjoyed at a local diner, picked up on the way to work, or served at a family gathering, donuts—and especially plain donuts—are deeply embedded in the fabric of American cuisine.
If you’d like to discover more about the history of donuts and their rise to fame, you can check out this detailed history of donuts.
Types of Plain Donuts Across Regions
While the basic idea of a plain donut is the same—a donut without toppings or fillings—different regions in the U.S. have put their own spin on this classic treat. Let’s discover how plain donuts vary from place to place.
1. Northeast U.S.
In the Northeast, plain donuts are often called old-fashioned donuts. These are typically cake donuts that are fried to have a slightly crispy exterior while maintaining a soft, dense interior. The term “old-fashioned” refers to the traditional method of making these donuts, and they are commonly served in diners and coffee shops across the region.
In this part of the country, plain donuts are often enjoyed as a breakfast item, paired with a hot cup of coffee.
For a tasty alternative, you might enjoy this easy Bibibop copycat chicken recipe inspired by the popular restaurant dish.
2. Midwest U.S.
In the Midwest, plain donuts tend to be slightly sweeter than those found in other regions. The dough is often enriched with butter or buttermilk, giving the donut a richer flavor even though it remains “plain” in terms of appearance. These donuts are commonly sold at local bakeries, where they’re made fresh daily.
Midwesterners often appreciate the simplicity of the plain donut, which pairs well with a variety of beverages and is a popular snack throughout the day.
3. Southern U.S.
In the Southern United States, you’ll find plain donuts that sometimes have a hint of vanilla or cinnamon mixed into the dough. While these additions are subtle, they add a unique flavor to the donut without compromising its “plain” status. Southern plain donuts tend to be light and fluffy, often made with yeast dough and served warm.
Plain donuts in the South are frequently enjoyed as a breakfast staple, often served alongside biscuits, gravy, or grits.
Each region’s take on the plain donut reflects local tastes and preferences, showing how a simple pastry can adapt to different culinary cultures across the country.
Why Are Plain Donuts So Popular?
Despite the wide array of fancy donuts available today, plain donuts have remained consistently popular. So, what is it about plain donuts that continues to appeal to people?
Here are a few reasons why plain donuts are a favorite:
- Simplicity: Plain donuts are straightforward and easy to enjoy. There’s no need to worry about messy toppings or overly sweet fillings.
- Versatility: Plain donuts pair well with just about any beverage, especially coffee or tea. They can be eaten at breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert.
- Nostalgia: For many, plain donuts are a nostalgic treat that reminds them of simpler times—whether it’s grabbing a donut from a local bakery as a kid or enjoying one at a family gathering.
- Subtle Sweetness: Unlike heavily glazed or filled donuts, plain donuts offer a more subdued sweetness, making them perfect for those who prefer something less sugary.
- Crispy on the Outside, Soft on the Inside: One of the best things about plain donuts, particularly cake donuts, is their crispy exterior paired with a soft, tender interior. This textural contrast makes them a satisfying treat.
How to Make Plain Donuts at Home
Making plain donuts at home is easier than you might think! Whether you prefer cake donuts or yeast donuts, we’ve got a simple recipe for each type.
Cake Donuts Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix the milk, eggs, and melted butter.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a thick batter forms.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface and use a donut cutter to cut out donut shapes.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry the donuts for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
- Remove from the oil and let cool on a wire rack. Enjoy!
If you’re looking for a simple and quick snack, you can also try this easy 3-ingredient Sloppy Joe recipe for a delicious meal.
Yeast Donuts Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- ¼ cup sugar
- ½ cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup melted butter
Instructions:
- In a bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until foamy.
- Add the sugar, milk, eggs, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir well.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, then place it in a greased bowl. Cover and let it rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Roll out the dough and use a donut cutter to cut out donut shapes.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry the donuts for 1-2 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
- Remove from the oil and let cool on a wire rack. Enjoy!
Making donuts at home can be a fun and rewarding experience, and there’s nothing quite like enjoying a freshly made donut straight from the fryer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is a plain donut called?
A plain donut is simply called a “plain donut.” It can be made using either yeast dough or cake batter, but the key characteristic is that it doesn’t have any toppings, fillings, or additional flavors.
2. What is the difference between a plain donut and a glazed donut?
The primary difference is that a plain donut has no added glaze, icing, or toppings, while a glazed donut has a layer of sugary icing that adds sweetness. Glazed donuts are often shinier and sweeter due to the glaze.
3. Are plain donuts less sweet than other types of donuts?
Yes, plain donuts are typically less sweet because they lack the extra sugar that comes with glazes, fillings, or toppings.
4. How long do plain donuts last?
Plain donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but they can last for up to two days if stored in an airtight container at room temperature. However, they may lose some of their crispness and become softer over time.
5. Why are some plain donuts called “old-fashioned”?
Old-fashioned donuts are a type of cake donut that is fried at a lower temperature, giving them a distinctive shape with cracked edges. This style of donut is considered “old-fashioned” because it resembles the traditional methods of making donuts before modern donut-making machines were introduced.
Conclusion
In conclusion, plain donuts may not have the flashy toppings or sweet fillings of other donuts, but they hold a special place in the hearts of donut lovers. Their simplicity allows the true flavor of the dough to shine through, making them a satisfying and versatile treat. Whether you prefer the denser texture of a cake donut or the light fluffiness of a yeast donut, the plain donut is a classic choice that never goes out of style.
From their humble origins to their place in modern American culture, plain donuts have stood the test of time. So, next time you find yourself at a donut shop or bakery, consider giving the plain donut a try—it might just become your new favorite!