Step 1

Pour about 1/2-inch oil into a large saute pan or pot and heat over medium heat to 355 degrees F. (keeping an eye on it as it is heating). Meanwhile prepare donut dough.

Step 2

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together flour, 1/4 cup sugar, baking powder and salt.

Step 3

Separately whisk together buttermilk and melted butter. Pour buttermilk mixture into flour mixture and using a fork, stir in dry ingredients and mix just until combine (be careful no to over-work dough).

Step 4

Roll dough into 1/2 Tbsp balls. Once the oil has reached 355 degrees F, fry about 1/2 the dough balls at a time.

Step 5

Fry until just golden brown on bottom, then flip and cook reverse side until golden brown.

Step 6

Carefully remove with a spider strainer or metal tongs drain onto a paper towel lined baking sheet.

Step 7

Pour 1/3 cup sugar into a dish, roll donuts in sugar. Repeat this process with remaining dough.