1776-1800 - State fair vendors and urban lunch counters in American immigrant cities

Mini Donuts

Name: Mini Donuts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 6 servings (about 36 mini donuts)
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup whole milk; 2 tablespoons melted butter; Vegetable oil for frying; Additional cinnamon sugar for coating

Mini donuts are tiny, fried doughnuts commonly enjoyed at American state fairs, carnivals, and diners during the early 20th century. Their small size made them a convenient treat for fairgoers and lunch counter patrons. This recipe captures the simplicity and nostalgic appeal of these sweet bites, featuring a light dough fried to golden perfection and lightly dusted with cinnamon sugar.

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Difficulty

Easy

Prep time

15 minutes

Cook time

5 minutes

Total time

20 minutes

Servings

6 servings (about 36 mini donuts)

Region

Dutch New York and New Netherland kitchens

Era introduced

1776-1800

Introduced by

State fair vendors and urban lunch counters in American immigrant cities

Recipe tools

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The Story

Mini donuts date back to the early 1900s when state fairs, carnivals, and urban diners popularized bite-sized fried treats that satisfied crowds looking for quick and affordable sweets. These small, cinnamon-sugar coated donuts reflected the influence of immigrant baking traditions adapted to American tastes. Their popularity grew with the rise of mobile food vendors and lunch counters in immigrant cities, offering a nostalgic, warm treat. They remain a symbol of fun and convivial gatherings at fairs and local eateries across the United States.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 large eggs
1/2 cup whole milk
2 tablespoons melted butter
Vegetable oil for frying
Additional cinnamon sugar for coating

Equipment

Hand mixer or stand mixer
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons

Directions

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon.
In another bowl, beat the eggs then whisk in milk and melted butter.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until combined into a soft dough.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to 375F (190C).
Using a small spoon or doughnut scoop, carefully drop small amounts of dough into hot oil.
Fry mini donuts for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown, then remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
While still warm, toss the mini donuts in cinnamon sugar to coat evenly.
Serve warm and enjoy.

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