There’s something so wonderfully nostalgic about biting into a warm, fluffy glazed donut — that perfect balance of soft dough and sweet, shiny glaze that melts in your mouth. These Glazed Donuts are your classic treat, made from scratch with love and a little sprinkle of magic. Whether you’re making them for a cozy weekend breakfast or to impress your friends with homemade goodness, trust me, you’re going to love this recipe. It’s easy, fun, and the smell alone will have your whole house drooling.

Why You’ll Love Glazed Donuts

This recipe isn’t just about ingredients—it’s about capturing that bakery-fresh experience right in your own kitchen. Soft, airy donuts with a tender crumb, lightly crisped edges, and that signature sugary glaze that gives you the perfect bite every time. Plus, making donuts at home is a joy — from rolling the dough to watching them puff in the hot oil — it’s all part of the fun. These donuts are comfort food at its best.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Want to nail this dish on your very first try? Here are some insider secrets:

• Use fresh yeast and check that your milk is warm but not hot — this helps the dough rise perfectly.
• Don’t rush the rising times; patience makes for fluffier donuts.
• Fry the donuts in oil heated to 350°F (175°C) to get that golden exterior without soaking up too much oil.
• Drain donuts on paper towels immediately after frying to keep them crisp.
• Dip the donuts in the glaze while they’re still warm so it soaks in beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Dough

1. 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
2. ¾ cup warm whole milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
3. ¼ cup granulated sugar
4. 1 large egg
5. 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
6. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
7. 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling)
8. ½ teaspoon salt
9. Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Glaze

10. 2 cups powdered sugar
11. ½ cup whole milk
12. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

1. Activate the yeast

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. Make the dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, egg, melted butter, and vanilla. Add the yeast mixture and stir. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.

3. Knead and rise

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

4. Shape the donuts

Roll the dough out to about ½ inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters (one large, one small) to cut out donut shapes. Place on parchment-lined trays, cover, and let rise another 30 minutes.

5. Fry the donuts

Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry donuts in batches, flipping once, until golden brown, about 1 minute per side. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to paper towels to drain.

6. Make the glaze

Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Dip warm donuts into the glaze, then place on a rack to let the glaze set.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

These donuts get their magic from the soft, pillowy dough balanced with a crisp, golden outside. The glaze adds that perfect sweet touch that isn’t overpowering — just enough to make your taste buds sing. It’s the kind of texture contrast and flavor harmony that keeps you reaching for one more.

How to Serve Glazed Donuts

This dish pairs wonderfully with:

• A hot cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate morning combo
• A glass of cold milk for nostalgic indulgence
• Fresh berries on the side for a bright contrast
• Sprinkled with chopped nuts or shredded coconut on the glaze for extra flair

Creative Leftover Transformations

Don’t let leftovers go to waste! You can:

• Cut them into cubes and use as topping for ice cream or yogurt parfaits
• Turn them into donut bread pudding by layering with custard and baking
• Slice and make breakfast sandwiches with bacon and eggs
• Toast lightly and spread with butter and jam for a quick snack

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips:

• Use a thermometer to keep your oil at the right temperature — too hot and the donuts burn; too cool and they absorb oil.
• If you don’t have a donut cutter, use a large glass and a small bottle cap for the center hole.
• Keep fried donuts on a wire rack instead of stacking them to avoid sogginess.
• For a chocolate glaze twist, add cocoa powder to the glaze.

Make It a Showstopper (Presentation Ideas)

Want to wow your guests?

• Serve donuts stacked on a tiered stand with colorful sprinkles
• Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce on top of the glaze
• Garnish with edible flowers or powdered sugar dusting
• Pair with a latte art coffee for that café vibe

FAQ’s

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
   Yes, but reduce the amount slightly and adjust rising times.
2. Can I bake the donuts instead of frying?
   Yes, baked donuts are healthier but will have a different texture.
3. How do I store leftover donuts?
   Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
4. Can I freeze glazed donuts?
   Yes, freeze before glazing for best results. Thaw and glaze when ready.
5. Can I make vegan donuts?
   Substitute milk with plant-based milk, use vegan butter, and egg replacer.
6. How do I keep donuts from getting soggy?
   Drain well after frying and avoid stacking while cooling.
7. Can I add flavors to the glaze?
   Absolutely! Try lemon zest, cinnamon, or espresso powder.
8. What if my dough is sticky?
   Add flour a little at a time while kneading until it’s manageable but still soft.
9. Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose?
   Yes, it makes a lighter, more tender donut.
10. How do I fix tough donuts?
    Make sure not to over-knead and don’t add too much flour.

Conclusion

Homemade Glazed Donuts bring all the warm fuzzies and sweet indulgence right to your kitchen. They’re a fun project that turns into a delicious reward—soft, fluffy, and coated in that perfect glaze that makes everything better. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or a special treat, these donuts will make your day just a little brighter. So get your apron on and get ready for donut heaven!

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