Glazed Donuts Recipe

If you have ever dreamed of biting into a soft, fluffy, warm donut topped with a shiny, sweet coat, this Glazed Donuts Recipe is your golden ticket. With a perfectly balanced dough that rises to pillowy perfection and a glaze that adds just the right amount of sweetness, these homemade treats will make your kitchen smell irresistible and your taste buds dance. Whether you want a special breakfast treat, an anytime snack, or a fun project to enjoy, this recipe delivers classic donuts that are truly worth every moment spent making them.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Glazed Donuts Recipe, the ingredients are refreshingly straightforward yet essential to create that classic donut texture and flavor you love. Every component plays a vital role, from the yeast that helps the dough rise light and airy, to the powdered sugar glaze that adds that irresistible finish.

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (divided): Provides structure while keeping the donut light.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough delicately before glazing.
• 1/4 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• 1 packet instant yeast (about 2 1/4 tsp): The key to fluffy, risen dough.
• 2/3 cup milk (scalded & cooled to 115˚F): Activates the yeast and enriches the dough.
• 1/4 cup light olive oil (or vegetable/canola oil): Keeps the dough tender and moist.
• 2 egg yolks (room temperature): Adds richness and a golden color.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses warm, sweet aroma.
• 1 lb powdered sugar (about 4 cups): Base of the irresistibly shiny glaze.
• 5-6 Tbsp water: Creates the perfect glaze consistency.
• 1 Tbsp vanilla extract: For the glaze, providing a luscious finish.
• Oil for frying (peanut or vegetable oil): Essential for that golden, crispy exterior with a tender center.

How to Make Glazed Donuts Recipe

Step 1: Scald the Milk

Start by gently heating the milk until it’s steaming and just about to boil (around 180˚F). This step scalds the milk, which helps create a softer dough by breaking down proteins, and then cool it to 115˚F so it’s the perfect temperature to activate the yeast. Trust me, this little detail makes a huge difference!

Step 2: Proof the Dough

In a big mixing bowl, whisk together part of the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Then add the warm milk, oil, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything until smooth, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rest at room temperature until you see little bubbles forming on the surface—this means your yeast is lively and ready to work its magic.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Next, gradually work in the remaining flour with a spatula and then knead the mixture by hand for about 5 minutes. The dough should feel soft and slightly sticky. If it clings too much to your hands, sprinkle a bit of flour and keep kneading until smooth and elastic. This kneading step is where the gluten forms, giving you that classic donut texture.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and place it in a warm spot, like inside a 100˚F oven or at room temperature. You want to wait until the dough doubles in size, which usually takes about 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on your environment. Patience here means fluffy, airy donuts.

Step 5: Roll and Cut Donuts

Once the dough has puffed up, turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it to about 1/4 to 1/3 inch thickness. Use a donut cutter to create perfect rings and the hole centers. Don’t toss those scraps — gently press them together and roll out again for an extra donut or two. It feels like a fun bonus!

Step 6: Let Donuts Rise Again

Place your cut donuts and holes on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between them so they don’t stick. Cover with a tea towel and let them rise again until puffed—about 20 minutes in a warm place or a bit longer at room temperature. This second rise is what gives your donuts that tender crumb.

Step 7: Make the Glaze

While the donuts are rising, whisk together powdered sugar, water, and vanilla in a bowl until smooth and glossy. This gorgeous glaze is what makes this Glazed Donuts Recipe truly shine with its shiny, sweet finish.

Step 8: Fry the Donuts

Heat your frying oil to 375˚F in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer. Fry two donuts at a time, flipping after about 45 to 60 seconds, until both sides turn a beautiful golden brown. This fast frying locks in moisture while creating a crispy outside. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried donuts; you’ll want to move quickly to the next step while they are still warm.

Step 9: Glaze the Donuts

Immediately dip each donut, one at a time, into the glaze, soaking both sides completely. Then place them on a wire rack to let the glaze set to a delicate sheen. The warm donut soaks up just enough glaze to be delectably sweet without being soggy.

Step 10: Fry and Glaze the Donut Holes

Don’t forget the donut holes! Fry them in batches just like the donuts and dip them in the glaze. These bite-sized treats disappear fast, so be ready to share or save a few.

How to Serve Glazed Donuts Recipe

Garnishes

While the shiny vanilla glaze is perfect on its own, adding a sprinkle of colorful nonpareils, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut can elevate the donuts visually and add exciting textures. A dusting of cinnamon sugar also pairs beautifully with the classic glaze.

Side Dishes

Pair these glazed donuts with a creamy latte, a frothy cappuccino, or even a glass of cold milk to balance the sweetness. Fresh fruit or a small bowl of yogurt can add a refreshing, tangy contrast that makes every bite even more enjoyable.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your glazed donuts into a delightful dessert platter by stacking them with fresh berries and whipped cream or arranging them alongside mini espresso shots for a chic brunch setup. You can even use the donuts as a base to create donut sandwiches filled with cream cheese or jam for a fun twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep leftover glazed donuts fresh for up to two days by placing them in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigerating as this can dry them out and dull the glaze’s shine. If you want to enjoy them later, reheating is a great option.

Freezing

This Glazed Donuts Recipe freezes beautifully. After frying but before glazing, let the donuts cool completely and freeze them in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, thaw and then apply the glaze freshly.

Reheating

For that just-made taste, reheat donuts gently in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 300˚F for 3-5 minutes. This warms them through and softens the glaze slightly without melting it completely. Avoid microwaving as it can make the texture rubbery.

FAQs

Can I make this Glazed Donuts Recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the milk with any plant-based milk, use flaxseed or chia seed eggs instead of yolks, and choose a neutral oil for frying. For the glaze, use water and powdered sugar without vanilla extract that contains alcohol or animal products.

What kind of oil is best for frying donuts?

Use an oil with a high smoke point like peanut, vegetable, or canola oil. These oils tolerate high frying temperatures and provide a neutral flavor that lets the donut shine.

Why does the milk need to be scalded?

Scalding breaks down proteins in the milk that can interfere with gluten development, which leads to a softer dough. It also helps activate the yeast, creating fluffier donuts.

How do I know when the donuts are fried enough?

The donuts should be a rich golden brown color on both sides. Typically, frying each side for 45-60 seconds at 375˚F achieves this. Also, donuts will float and feel light when fully cooked.

Can I bake these donuts instead of frying them?

Yes! While this recipe is designed for frying to get that crisp exterior and tender interior, you can bake at 375˚F for about 10-12 minutes or until golden. They will be slightly less crispy but still delicious and lighter in oil.

Final Thoughts

This Glazed Donuts Recipe is truly a joy to make and even more delightful to eat. There’s something so satisfying about creating donuts from scratch—the aroma, the warm glaze, and that first bite all combine to make a memorable treat. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or simply indulging yourself, these donuts are bound to become a cherished favorite. Go ahead, give them a try—you won’t regret it!

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