Name: Leftover Mashed Potato Donuts Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 18
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3¼ cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp Baking Soda; ½ tsp kosher salt; ½ tsp nutmeg; 8 tbsp butter; ½ cup sugar; ½ cup brown sugar; 1 cup mashed potato; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ cup buttermilk; 8 cups canola oil; For Coating:; 1 cup sugar; 2 tsp Cinnamon

A surprising twist on a classic treat, these donuts make inventive use of leftover mashed potatoes. The result is a delightfully fluffy and light donut with a hint of savory flavor that perfectly complements the sweet coating. It's a unique and delicious way to use up those extra spuds!

Photos of Leftover Mashed Potato Donuts Recipe

The main ingredient that might not be readily available in your pantry is the leftover mashed potatoes. If you don't have any leftover, you can simply boil a potato and mash it up. The other ingredient to note is buttermilk. If you can't find it in your local supermarket, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 10 minutes.

Ingredients for Leftover Mashed Potato Donuts

All-purpose flour: This is the main ingredient for the dough, providing structure to the donuts.

Baking powder and baking soda: These are leavening agents that help the donuts rise and become fluffy.

Kosher salt: Enhances the flavor of the donuts.

Nutmeg: Adds a hint of warm spice to the donuts.

Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the donuts.

Sugar: Sweetens the donuts.

Brown sugar: This sugar adds a deeper, caramel-like sweetness to the donuts.

Mashed potato: The star ingredient, adding moisture and lightness to the donuts.

Eggs: Help to bind the ingredients together.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the donuts.

Buttermilk: Adds a subtle tanginess and helps to tenderize the gluten, making the donuts softer.

Canola oil: Used for frying the donuts, canola oil has a neutral flavor and high smoke point.

Cinnamon: Combined with sugar for the coating, it provides a warm, sweet flavor.

One reader, Isaac Canty says:

These leftover mashed potato donuts are a game-changer! The combination of fluffy mashed potatoes and sweet cinnamon sugar is pure bliss. The recipe is easy to follow, and the end result is absolutely delicious. I highly recommend giving these donuts a try - they're a delightful treat!

Isaac Canty

Key Techniques for Making Leftover Mashed Potato Donuts

How to fry the donuts and holes: Heat the canola oil in a large pot fitted with a deep-fry thermometer over medium heat until it reaches 375 degrees F. Working in batches, fry the donuts and holes in the hot oil for about 2 minutes per side, until deep golden brown. The donut holes will take less time than the donuts.

How to coat the donuts: In a medium bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon. After frying, transfer the donuts and holes to a wire rack to cool for 1 minute, then carefully toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture.

How to knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 1 to 2 minutes, adding up to ¼ cup more flour as needed until the dough is cohesive and no longer sticky.

How to roll out the dough: Use a rolling pin to roll out the dough to ½-inch thick, flouring the dough as needed. Use a 3-inch round cutter to cut out donuts and a 1-inch round cutter to cut out holes from the centers. Re-roll the dough scraps and cut out more donuts. Refrigerate the donuts and holes until ready to fry.

How To Make Leftover Mashed Potato Donuts

Save your leftover mashed potatoes and turn them into tasty and crunchy mashed potato donuts whipped with milk, flour, butter, and salt!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 50 minutes

Total: 1 hour

Serves:

Ingredients

3¼cupsall-purpose flour,plus more for dusting
2tspbaking powder
½tspbaking soda
½tspkosher salt
½tspnutmeg,ground
8tbspbutter,unsalted, softened
½cupsugar,granulated
½cupbrown sugar
1cupmashed potato
2large eggs
1tspvanilla extract
½cupbuttermilk
8cupscanola oil

For Coating:

1cupsugar,granulated
2tspcinnamon,ground

Instructions

Sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg into a medium bowl.
In a large bowl, cream the butter with an electric hand mixer on medium-high speed for 1 to 2 minutes until light and fluffy.
Add the granulated and brown sugars and the mashed potatoes and cream until combined. Add the eggs and vanilla and mix until combined.
Add half of the dry ingredients to the mashed potato mixture and mix on medium speed until mostly incorporated. Add the buttermilk, and mix until almost combined.
Add the rest of the dry ingredients and use a spatula to finish mixing until just incorporated.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 1 to 2 minutes, adding up to ¼ cup more flour as needed until the dough is cohesive and no longer sticky.
Use a rolling pin to roll out the dough to ½-inch thick, flouring the dough as needed.
Use a 3-inch round cutter to cut out donuts. Use a 1-inch round cutter to cut out holes from the centers. Set the donuts and holes on a baking sheet.
Re-roll the dough scraps and cut out more donuts. Refrigerate the donuts and holes until ready to fry.
Heat the canola oil in a large pot fitted with a deep-fry thermometer over medium heat until it reaches 375 degrees F. Set a wire rack over a baking sheet and place nearby.
In a medium bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon. Set near the wire rack.
Working in batches, fry the donuts and holes in the hot oil for about 2 minutes per side, until deep golden brown. The donut holes will take less time than the donuts.
Transfer to the wire rack to cool for 1 minute, then carefully toss in the cinnamon sugar.
Eat warm, or let cool completely.
Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 1088.31kcal
Fat: 103.22g
Saturated Fat: 10.72g
Trans Fat: 0.61g
Monounsaturated Fat: 62.97g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 27.84g
Carbohydrates: 40.59g
Fiber: 0.95g
Sugar: 21.06g
Protein: 3.55g
Cholesterol: 34.51mg
Sodium: 192.02mg
Calcium: 62.54mg
Potassium: 89.59mg
Iron: 1.31mg
Vitamin A: 58.84µg
Vitamin C: 0.08mg

Essential Technique for Perfect Mashed Potato Donuts

When frying your donuts, it's important to maintain the right oil temperature. Too hot and your donuts will brown too quickly on the outside while remaining raw on the inside. Too cool, and your donuts will absorb too much oil, becoming greasy and heavy. Using a deep-fry thermometer will help you keep the oil at the perfect temperature for frying. Also, don't overcrowd the pot, as this can also lower the oil temperature. Fry in batches for the best results.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Leftover Mashed Potato Donuts

Prepare the ingredients: Gather and measure all the ingredients before starting to save time and ensure a smooth cooking process.

Use leftover mashed potatoes: Utilize leftover mashed potatoes to create a delicious and convenient treat, reducing the need for additional preparation.

Chill the dough: Refrigerate the donuts and holes until ready to fry to streamline the cooking process and allow for easier handling of the dough.

Work in batches: Frying the donuts and holes in batches will help maintain consistent oil temperature and ensure even cooking.

Multi-task: While the donuts are frying, prepare the cinnamon sugar coating to save time and streamline the process.

Organize the workspace: Keep the work area clean and organized to minimize time spent searching for tools and ingredients during the cooking process.

Substitute Ingredients For Leftover Mashed Potato Donuts Recipe

all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor and extra nutrients to the donuts.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Baking soda and cream of tartar can be used in place of baking powder, but you will need to use more of it.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Baking powder can be used instead of baking soda, but you may need to adjust the quantity.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt in this recipe.
nutmeg - Substitute with cinnamon: Cinnamon can provide a warm and aromatic flavor similar to nutmeg.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a substitute for butter in this recipe.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add sweetness and moisture to the donuts.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a substitute for brown sugar in this recipe.
mashed potato - Substitute with sweet potato puree: Sweet potato puree can add a slightly sweeter flavor and extra nutrients to the donuts.
eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a binding agent in place of eggs.
buttermilk - Substitute with milk and vinegar: Adding a tablespoon of vinegar to a cup of milk can be used as a substitute for buttermilk.
canola oil - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil can be used as a substitute for canola oil in this recipe.
sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a unique sweetness and flavor to the donuts.
cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can provide a warm and aromatic flavor similar to cinnamon.

Creative Ways to Present Leftover Mashed Potato Donuts

Elevate the donuts with a unique glaze: Create a luxurious glaze using maple syrup and bourbon to add depth and richness to the flavor profile. The glaze should be thick and glossy, adding a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Incorporate edible flowers for a pop of color: Garnish the plate with delicate edible flowers such as pansies or violets to add a vibrant and visually stunning element to the dish. The colorful blooms will provide an elegant contrast against the golden-brown donuts.
Present the donuts on a bed of flavored sugar: Sprinkle the serving platter with a mixture of vanilla sugar and cinnamon to add a fragrant and aromatic base for the donuts. This will enhance the overall sensory experience and elevate the visual appeal of the dish.
Utilize artistic plating techniques: Arrange the donuts in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping each other, to create a visually appealing display. Incorporate varying heights and angles to add dimension and intrigue to the presentation.
Accompany with a side of gourmet dipping sauce: Serve the donuts with a side of salted caramel sauce or dark chocolate ganache for dipping. This adds a touch of indulgence and allows guests to customize their flavor experience.
Add a touch of gold leaf for a luxurious finish: Lightly apply edible gold leaf to the donuts for a luxurious and opulent touch. The shimmering gold accents will elevate the presentation and convey a sense of elegance and refinement.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Donuts

Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients and mixing the dough for the donuts.
Electric hand mixer: An electric hand mixer is used to cream the butter and mix the ingredients to create a smooth and creamy texture for the donut dough.
Rolling pin: A rolling pin is used to roll out the dough to the desired thickness for cutting out the donuts.
Round cutter: A round cutter is used to cut out the donuts and holes from the rolled-out dough.
Deep-fry thermometer: A deep-fry thermometer is used to monitor the temperature of the oil to ensure it reaches the optimal frying temperature.
Wire rack: A wire rack is used to place the fried donuts and holes to cool and drain excess oil.
Baking sheet: A baking sheet is used to hold the donuts and holes before and after frying.
Large pot: A large pot is used to heat the canola oil for frying the donuts and holes.
Spatula: A spatula is used to mix the dough and ensure all the ingredients are well combined.
Deep-fryer: A deep-fryer can also be used instead of a large pot for frying the donuts and holes.

Storing and Freezing Leftover Mashed Potato Donuts

Allow the donuts to cool completely before storing. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or sticky.
Place the cooled donuts in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. If stacking the donuts, separate each layer with a piece of parchment paper or wax paper to prevent them from sticking together.
Store the donuts at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
If you want to keep the donuts fresh for a longer period, you can freeze them:
- Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
- Place the wrapped donuts in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze the donuts for up to 2-3 months.
To thaw frozen donuts:
- Remove the desired number of donuts from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour.
- Alternatively, you can microwave the frozen donuts for 15-20 seconds on high power to quickly defrost them.
If the donuts have lost some of their crispness after thawing, you can refresh them by placing them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until they are warmed through and slightly crisp.
Note that the texture of the donuts may change slightly after freezing and thawing, but they will still be delicious and enjoyable.

How To Reheat Leftover Mashed Potato Donuts

To reheat leftover mashed potato donuts, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy on the outside. This method will help restore some of the original texture and flavor of the donuts.
Another option is to use an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the donuts in the basket, making sure they are not touching each other. Heat for 3-4 minutes, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy. This method is quick and will help maintain the donut's original texture.
For a quicker reheating method, use a microwave. Place the donuts on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in 10-second intervals until they are warmed through. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can make the donuts tough and rubbery. To help maintain some of the original texture, you can place a damp paper towel over the donuts while microwaving.
If you want to add a fresh twist to your leftover donuts, consider slicing them in half and toasting them in a toaster or under the broiler. This will create a crispy, caramelized exterior and a soft, warm interior. You can then top the toasted donuts with a fresh glaze, cinnamon sugar, or your favorite spread, such as Nutella or peanut butter.
For a more indulgent treat, transform your leftover donuts into a delicious bread pudding. Cut the donuts into bite-sized pieces and place them in a greased baking dish. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Pour the mixture over the donut pieces and let it sit for 15 minutes to allow the donuts to absorb the liquid. Bake the bread pudding at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until it is set and golden brown on top. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Interesting Fact About Mashed Potato Donuts

The mashed potato donuts recipe is a creative way to use up leftover mashed potatoes and reduce food waste. These donuts are a delicious and unique treat that can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert. They are a great way to repurpose leftovers and create something new and exciting in the kitchen.

Is Making Donuts at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this leftover mashed potato donuts recipe largely depends on the availability of ingredients in the household. While the recipe utilizes common pantry items, the need for a large quantity of canola oil for frying may impact the overall cost. Considering the versatility of mashed potatoes and the ability to repurpose leftovers, this recipe can be a budget-friendly option. Rating: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4: $10-$15.

Are Leftover Mashed Potato Donuts Healthy or Unhealthy?

The leftover mashed potato donuts recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The recipe is high in refined carbohydrates, with all-purpose flour being the main ingredient. Refined carbs are known to cause blood sugar spikes and contribute to weight gain.
The donuts are deep-fried in canola oil, which adds a significant amount of unhealthy fats and calories to the final product.
The recipe contains a considerable amount of sugar, both in the dough and the cinnamon-sugar coating, which can lead to excessive calorie intake and potential health issues if consumed regularly.
While the mashed potatoes do add some nutrients, they are overshadowed by the less healthy ingredients in the recipe.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Swap a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or oat flour to increase the fiber content and reduce the glycemic impact of the donuts.
Experiment with baking the donuts instead of deep-frying them. This will significantly reduce the amount of unhealthy fats and calories in the final product.
Reduce the amount of sugar in the dough and the coating. You can also try using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup in place of refined sugar.
Incorporate more nutrient-dense ingredients into the recipe, such as grated zucchini, carrots, or sweet potatoes. These additions will boost the vitamin and mineral content of the donuts without compromising taste.
Serve the donuts as an occasional treat rather than a regular breakfast or snack item to maintain a balanced diet.

Editor's Opinion on the Leftover Mashed Potato Donuts Recipe

The recipe for leftover mashed potato donuts is a creative and innovative way to repurpose mashed potatoes. The combination of mashed potatoes, nutmeg, and buttermilk creates a unique and flavorful donut. The instructions are clear and easy to follow, making it accessible for home cooks. The addition of cinnamon sugar coating adds a delightful sweetness to the donuts. Overall, this recipe is a fun and delicious way to use up leftover mashed potatoes, and it's sure to be a hit with anyone looking for a unique and tasty treat.

Enhance Your Leftover Mashed Potato Donuts Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Parmesan Asparagus: Try serving the leftover mashed potato donuts with a side of roasted garlic parmesan asparagus for a savory and satisfying contrast.

Honey Sriracha Glazed Chicken: For a sweet and spicy pairing, consider serving the mashed potato donuts alongside honey sriracha glazed chicken for a flavorful combination.

Caramelized Onion and Bacon Quiche: Create a brunch-inspired meal by pairing the donuts with a slice of caramelized onion and bacon quiche for a delicious and hearty option.

Similar Recipes to Leftover Mashed Potato Donuts

Loaded Baked Potato Soup: This creamy and hearty soup is the perfect way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. It's loaded with bacon, cheese, and green onions for a delicious and comforting meal.

Shepherd's Pie: This classic dish is a great way to repurpose mashed potatoes. Layered with seasoned ground meat, vegetables, and topped with a creamy mashed potato crust, it's a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Potato Pancakes: Transform your leftover mashed potatoes into crispy and savory potato pancakes. Serve them with sour cream and applesauce for a delicious and comforting meal or snack.

Potato Gnocchi: Use your leftover mashed potatoes to make pillowy and tender potato gnocchi. Toss them in a flavorful sauce for a comforting and satisfying pasta dish that's sure to impress.

Appetizer and Main Course Pairings for Leftover Mashed Potato Donuts

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy filling, making it a crowd-pleasing option for any gathering.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic bruschetta. Toasted bread topped with a vibrant mixture of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil creates a burst of flavor in every bite. This simple yet elegant dish is sure to impress your guests.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and flavorful Alfredo sauce. Serve it over fettuccine for a classic and satisfying meal.

Beef Stir Fry: Whip up a quick and delicious stir fry using thinly sliced beef and a colorful array of vegetables. The savory and slightly sweet sauce brings all the flavors together for a delightful and healthy main course.

Why trust this Leftover Mashed Potato Donuts Recipe:

This recipe offers a unique and innovative way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes into a delightful treat. The combination of nutmeg and cinnamon adds warm, comforting flavors, while the use of buttermilk ensures a tender texture. The careful instructions and attention to detail demonstrate the chef's expertise, making this recipe a trustworthy choice. With its creative use of ingredients and clear, concise steps, home cooks can have confidence in creating delicious donuts from their leftover mashed potatoes.

Have you tried making donuts with your leftover mashed potatoes? Share your experience and discuss this Leftover Mashed Potato Donuts Recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum section.

FAQ:

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe. It's a great way to repurpose leftovers and create a delicious treat.

Can I bake the donuts instead of frying them?

While this recipe is specifically designed for frying, you can certainly try baking the donuts. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may be slightly different, but it's worth experimenting with if you prefer a healthier cooking method.

Can I freeze the donuts for later?

Yes, you can freeze the donuts for later. Once they have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven.

Can I substitute the buttermilk with regular milk?

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with regular milk. To make a buttermilk substitute, add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.

How long do the mashed potato donuts stay fresh?

The mashed potato donuts are best enjoyed fresh on the day they are made. However, if stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they can still be enjoyed for up to 2 days.