Glazed Donuts Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into the perfect soft, sweet treat, these Glazed Donuts are exactly what you need. Picture this: a tender, pillowy donut with a golden-brown crust, dipped in a shiny, sugary glaze that adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering that rich dough. Making these delicious homemade donuts is surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding. Whether you’re treating yourself on a weekend morning or sharing with friends, these donuts promise a little moment of pure joy in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started on these Glazed Donuts requires just a handful of staple ingredients, but each one plays a starring role in creating their classic taste, fluffy texture, and perfect golden color. Nothing fancy, just straightforward pantry essentials that come together beautifully.

• 1 cup whole milk, warm: Activates the yeast and adds richness to the dough.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and sweetens the base.
• 1 tbsp active dry yeast: The magic that makes the dough rise light and airy.
• 2 large eggs: Add structure, moisture, and tenderness to each donut.
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, softened: Brings creaminess and a melt-in-your-mouth softness.
• 1 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
• 4 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation that holds everything together.
• Vegetable oil, for frying: High smoke point oil that crisps the donuts evenly.
• Glaze ingredients: 2 cups powdered sugar, ¼ cup whole milk, and ½ tsp vanilla extract combine to create a smooth, shiny coating.

How to Make Glazed Donuts

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by stirring together the warm milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast in a bowl. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly. This step is crucial because it tells you the yeast is alive and ready to make your donuts fluffy.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

Next, beat in the eggs, softened butter, and salt into your foamy yeast mixture. The eggs enrich the dough, while the butter adds tenderness, so blend these well until smooth.

Step 3: Incorporate the Flour

Gradually add the all-purpose flour, stirring constantly, until a soft dough forms. A gradual pour helps you control the dough’s consistency so it’s not too sticky or stiff. Once combined, move to kneading.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

On a floured surface, knead the dough for 8 to 10 minutes until it’s smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky. Kneading develops the gluten that gives donuts structure and a slight bounce.

Step 5: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it doubles in size. This slow rest is when the dough really gets airy and soft.

Step 6: Shape and Rest

Roll out the dough to about ½-inch thickness on a floured surface. Use a doughnut cutter or two round cutters (one larger and one smaller) to cut out rings. Lay the donuts on a baking sheet and let them rest for 30 minutes to get puffy before frying.

Step 7: Fry the Donuts

Heat the vegetable oil in a heavy pot or deep fryer to 350°F (177°C). Carefully fry the donuts in batches, about 1 minute per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Step 8: Make and Apply the Glaze

While the donuts are still warm, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Dip each donut into the glaze, allowing the excess to drip off, and place on a wire rack to let the glaze set to that irresistible shine.

How to Serve Glazed Donuts

Garnishes

While these Glazed Donuts are perfect on their own, you can add a sprinkle of colorful nonpareils or a light dusting of cinnamon sugar to elevate their look and add a bit of extra flavor. A dusting of finely chopped nuts can also add a lovely crunch that complements the soft donut.

Side Dishes

Pair your glazed donuts with fresh fruit like sliced berries or a fruit compote to balance the sweetness. A smooth cup of coffee or creamy hot chocolate are classic companions that bring warmth and richness alongside the donuts’ sugary glaze.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking a few glazed donuts on a pretty cake stand for a casual brunch statement. For a fun twist, create a DIY donut bar where each person can add their chosen toppings or dips. Another idea is to slice the donuts in half and use them as buns for a sweet sandwich with cream cheese and jam.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store your leftover glazed donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing, or the glaze might soften too much and become sticky.

Freezing

If you want to save extras for later, glazed donuts freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They keep well for up to one month. To prevent the glaze from cracking, freeze the donuts without glaze and dip them after thawing if possible.

Reheating

Warm leftover glazed donuts in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes. This refreshes the dough’s softness and gives the glaze a nice sheen once again.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour for these glazed donuts?

All-purpose flour works best for the right balance of texture, but you can substitute bread flour for a chewier donut or pastry flour for a more tender crumb. Just keep the dough consistency in mind when mixing.

Is it necessary to let the dough rise twice?

Yes, allowing the dough to rise and then rest after shaping is key for fluffy donuts with a light texture. Skipping either rise often results in dense or tough donuts.

Can I bake the donuts instead of frying them?

Baking is a healthier alternative, and while you won’t get the same crispy exterior, baked donuts can be delicious and lighter. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–12 minutes until golden, then glaze as usual.

How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature?

The ideal frying temperature for glazed donuts is 350°F (177°C). Use a candy or deep-fry thermometer for accuracy. If the oil is too hot, donuts will brown on the outside but stay raw inside; too cool, and they absorb too much oil and become greasy.

Can I flavor the glaze differently?

Absolutely! Try adding a bit of lemon zest, cocoa powder, or even a splash of your favorite liqueur to the glaze for a unique twist. The base glaze is very forgiving and pairs well with many flavors.

Final Thoughts

Making these Glazed Donuts at home is such a joyful and rewarding experience. There is nothing quite like the smell of fresh donuts warming your kitchen and that first sweet bite, warm and soft with a glossy glaze. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious beginner, this recipe invites you to savor a little homemade magic. Give it a try—I promise these donuts will become a cherished favorite you’ll want to make again and again!