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
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: Over-kneading makes donuts tough. Stop once the dough feels smooth.
- Try Flavored Glazes: Swap vanilla for maple, almond, or even citrus extract.
- Add Toppings: While the glaze is still wet, sprinkle with crushed nuts, sprinkles, or cinnamon sugar.
- 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.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
- Pair with fresh fruit or a smoothie for a sweet breakfast.
- 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 |
Benefits of Glazed Donuts
Glazed donuts are loved for their soft, fluffy texture and sweet flavor that makes them irresistible. They provide a quick boost of energy due to their sugar and carbohydrate content, which is why many enjoy them with coffee or tea in the morning. Another benefit is how fun and customizable they are—you can try different glazes, toppings, or even bake them instead of frying. Plus, they are a perfect sharing treat, making them great for family breakfasts, parties, or dessert platters.
Disadvantages of Glazed Donuts
Despite their appeal, glazed donuts also come with some downsides. They are typically high in calories, sugar, and fat, especially when deep-fried, which makes them less ideal for regular consumption. Because of their high sugar content, they may also lead to energy crashes once the quick rush fades. Moreover, donuts are not very filling, so you may feel hungry again soon after eating them. Another drawback is their short shelf life—they taste best fresh and quickly lose their soft texture if stored for too long.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze glazed donuts?
Yes, you can. It’s best to freeze them before glazing. Once thawed, dip them in fresh glaze for the best taste and texture.
Q: How long can I store homemade donuts?
Glazed donuts taste best the same day. However, you can keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Absolutely. Instant yeast works just as well and can be added directly to the flour without proofing.
Q: Can I prepare the dough the night before?
Yes, you can. After kneading, cover the dough and refrigerate overnight. Shape, fry, and glaze the next day.
Q: Is it safe to reuse frying oil?
You can reuse the oil once or twice if you strain and store it properly, but fresh oil always gives better flavor and crispiness.
Conclusion
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.