Glazed Donuts Recipe – There’s something magical about biting into a soft, fluffy donut with a sweet, glossy glaze. Whether you’re craving a morning treat or planning a weekend baking session, homemade glazed donuts are easier than you might think—and a whole lot more delicious than store-bought ones. With a few basic ingredients and a bit of patience, you can enjoy melt-in-your-mouth donuts fresh out of your kitchen.
Let’s walk you through how to make classic glazed donuts from scratch.
Ingredients of Glazed Donuts Recipe (with Quantities)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 3 ½ cups |
| Whole milk (warm) | 1 cup |
| Active dry yeast | 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) |
| Granulated sugar | ¼ cup |
| Unsalted butter (softened) | ¼ cup (half stick) |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Vegetable oil (for frying) | As needed (about 4 cups) |
Ingredients For the Glaze:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Powdered sugar | 2 cups |
| Milk | ¼ cup |
| Vanilla extract | ½ teaspoon |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Glazed Donuts Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by combining warm milk (around 100°F or 38°C) with sugar in a bowl. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 5–10 minutes. The mixture should become foamy—this means the yeast is active.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, add the flour, salt, egg, softened butter, and the activated yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead it by hand or with a dough hook for 8–10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Let It Rise
Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Donuts
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ½ inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters (one big, one small) to shape the donuts and holes. Place them on parchment paper and let them rise again for 30 minutes.
Step 5: Fry the Donuts
Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop in 2–3 donuts at a time. Fry each side for about 1 minute, or until golden brown. Remove and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 6: Prepare the Glaze
In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Dip each warm donut into the glaze, letting the excess drip off. Place on a wire rack to set.
Tips & Variations
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Don’t Overwork the Dough: Over-kneading makes donuts tough. Stop once the dough feels smooth.
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Try Flavored Glazes: Swap vanilla for maple, almond, or even citrus extract.
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Add Toppings: While the glaze is still wet, sprinkle with crushed nuts, sprinkles, or cinnamon sugar.
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Bake Instead of Fry: For a lighter version, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 8–10 minutes. Brush with melted butter and dip in glaze.
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Serving Suggestions
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Serve warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
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Pair with fresh fruit or a smoothie for a sweet breakfast.
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Stack them up and drizzle with chocolate sauce for a fun dessert platter.
Nutritional Info of Glazed Donuts (Per Donut – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 260 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 36g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 11g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Sugar | 15g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 100mg |
FAQs about Glazed Donuts Recipe
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I freeze glazed donuts? | Yes, you can freeze them (unglazed) for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze fresh. |
| How long can I store them? | Glazed donuts are best eaten the same day, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. |
| Can I use instant yeast? | Absolutely. You can substitute it directly for active dry yeast. |
| Can I make the dough overnight? | Yes. After kneading, refrigerate the dough overnight and shape/fry the next day. |
| Is it okay to reuse frying oil? | You can reuse it once or twice if filtered and stored properly, but fresh oil gives better flavor. |
Homemade glazed donuts may take a little time, but the reward is truly worth it. With a crispy outside, a soft fluffy interior, and a luscious sweet glaze, these donuts are bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you enjoy them plain or jazzed up with toppings, every bite feels like a little indulgent escape. So, roll up your sleeves, warm up that oil, and treat yourself to the sweet joy of homemade glazed donuts!