2 eggs
1 c. sugar
2 tbsp. soft butter
3 c. all-purpose flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
3/4 tsp. nutmeg, mace or cardamom
2/3 c. buttermilk
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract, optional
1/2 c. chopped walnuts or 2 tbsp. grated orange rind, optional
Oil for frying

CINNAMON-SUGAR TOPPING:

Combine: 1 tsp. cinnamon

VANILLA FROSTING:

Combine: 5 tbsp. milk 2 tsp. vanilla extract

CHOCOLATE FROSTING:

To Vanilla Frosting, blend in 2 squares melted unsweetened chocolate

1. Beat eggs, sugar and butter in bowl until light and fluffy.

2. In separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and nutmeg.

3. Gradually add buttermilk to egg mixture, mixing until well combined. Stir in vanilla, if used. Slowly add hot mixture, beating only until combined. Add nuts, if used. Dough will be soft.

4. Cover and chill 1 hour. Work with half the dough at a time. On well floured surface roll dough to 1/2 inch thickness. Let rest 10 minutes.

5. Cut close together with floured 3 inch doughnut cutter. Repeat with remaining dough and trimmings.

6. Heat 3 inches oil in saucepan until 375 degrees F. Gently drop in a few doughnuts and "holes" without crowding. As they rise, turn with slotted spoon. Fry about 3 minutes total or until golden brown and cooked through.

7. Remove and drain on paper toweling. Sprinkle with Cinnamon-Sugar Topping or frost as desired.