Glazed Donut Recipe

There’s something magical about biting into a warm, fluffy glazed donut. The sweet glaze melts in your mouth, the dough is pillowy soft, and the aroma wafts through the kitchen, beckoning everyone to gather around. Making your own glazed donuts at home isn’t just easy; it’s an experience that will elevate your breakfast game to new heights. With this simple yet delightful Glazed Donut Recipe, you can create a batch that rivals your favorite bakery. Let’s dive into the world of donuts and discover how to make these irresistible treats.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Glazed Donut Recipe is perfect for several reasons. First and foremost, the taste is simply divine. The combination of warm milk, yeast, and butter creates a soft, airy texture that melts in your mouth. The simple glaze made from powdered sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the delightful flavor of the donut. Furthermore, making donuts from scratch is a fun activity that can be enjoyed with family and friends. You’ll love the satisfaction of pulling these golden-brown beauties from the fryer and treating your loved ones to a homemade breakfast they won’t forget.

Ingredient Checklist

• 1 cup warm milk (107-110°F)
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided
• 1/4 cup melted butter, cooled
• 2-3 cups bread flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons whole milk (or more, if needed)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment & Tools

• Large mixing bowl – for combining ingredients.
• Whisk – to mix the yeast and sugar with warm milk.
• Rolling pin – to roll out the dough.
• Donut cutter or two round cookie cutters – for shaping the donuts.
• Deep frying pot or large saucepan – for frying the donuts.
• Thermometer – to check the oil temperature.
• Cooling rack – to let the donuts cool after frying.

Build Glazed Donut Recipe Step by Step

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk (107-110°F), active dry yeast, and 1 tablespoon of the granulated sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Once the yeast is frothy, add the melted butter, remaining tablespoon of sugar, and salt to the mixture. Gradually add 2 cups of bread flour, stirring until a dough begins to form. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour a little at a time until it reaches a soft, manageable consistency.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. You want the dough to be slightly tacky but not overly sticky.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Donuts

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch thick. Use a donut cutter or two round cookie cutters to cut out the donuts. Place the shaped donuts on a floured baking sheet and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes.

Step 6: Heat the Oil

In a deep frying pot or large saucepan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F. Use a thermometer for accuracy; this is crucial for perfectly fried donuts.

Step 7: Fry the Donuts

Carefully place a few donuts into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove the donuts with a slotted spoon and place them on a cooling rack to drain excess oil.

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, whole milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 9: Glaze the Donuts

Once the donuts are slightly cooled, dip the tops into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the glazed donuts back on the cooling rack to let the glaze set.

Year-Round Variations

• Chocolate Glazed Donuts: Substitute half of the powdered sugar in the glaze with cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor.
• Maple Glazed Donuts: Replace vanilla extract with maple extract in the glaze for a sweet maple twist.
• Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: After frying, roll the warm donuts in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon instead of glazing them.
• Filled Donuts: Before frying, fill the donuts with your favorite jam or custard using a piping bag.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

• Using cold milk: Always ensure your milk is warm enough to activate the yeast properly.
• Overcrowding the frying pot: Fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature.
• Skipping the second rise: Don’t rush this step; it’s essential for light and airy donuts.
• Not checking oil temperature: Use a thermometer to avoid greasy or burnt donuts.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

If you have leftover donuts, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the unglazed donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and glaze as desired. For reheating, you can pop them in a microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven for a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience!

Questions People Ask

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

You can use all-purpose flour, but bread flour gives the donuts a chewier texture and more structure. If you want a softer donut, all-purpose flour can work too!

How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?

A thermometer is the best way to check, aiming for 350°F. If you don’t have one, you can drop a small piece of dough into the oil; it should sizzle and float to the top if the oil is ready.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, and then refrigerate it overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and frying the donuts the next day.

What can I do if my donuts come out too greasy?

Ensure your oil is at the correct temperature before frying and don’t overcrowd the pot. If they are still greasy, you may need to drain them on paper towels after frying.

Don’t Miss These

• Sally’s Baking Addiction – for amazing baking tips and recipes.
• Pinch of Yum – for delicious and easy meal ideas.
• Minimalist Baker – for simple, quick recipes that focus on wholesome ingredients.
• Baker by Nature – for creative dessert recipes and baking inspiration.

Bring It to the Table

Now that you have mastered the art of making donuts, it’s time to enjoy them with family and friends. Whether it’s a cozy breakfast, a sweet brunch gathering, or a special treat for a loved one, these glazed donuts will be the star of the show. Pair them with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate, and watch as everyone indulges in the deliciousness of your homemade creations. With this Glazed Donut Recipe, you’ll create lasting memories one bite at a time.

There you have it! A delightful and comprehensive guide to making the perfect glazed donuts. With a little patience and love, you’ll have a batch of warm, fluffy donuts that will surely impress even the pickiest of eaters. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get frying!