Homemade Glazed Doughnuts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade Glazed Doughnuts are soft, fluffy, and perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings. The dough is rich and airy, while the glaze adds the perfect amount of sweetness and shine. Making doughnuts from scratch is easier than you think, and the result is well worth the effort. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, brunch, or as a treat with coffee, these homemade doughnuts will melt in your mouth and have you coming back for more.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Doughnuts:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 3/4 cup warm milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Directions

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy.
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Mix until a dough forms. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch thick.
6. Use a doughnut cutter or two round cookie cutters (one large, one small) to cut out the doughnuts. Place the doughnuts and holes on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower the doughnuts into the hot oil, frying for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
8. Remove the doughnuts from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
9. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to make the glaze.
10. Dip each doughnut into the glaze, coating both sides, and let the excess glaze drip off. Place the glazed doughnuts on a wire rack to set.
11. Serve the doughnuts warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 doughnuts. Prep time is 25 minutes, cook time is around 20 minutes, bringing the total time to approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Variations

• Add chocolate glaze by melting chocolate chips with a bit of milk and dipping the doughnuts into it.
• Add sprinkles or crushed nuts to the glaze for added texture.
• Make a cinnamon sugar coating instead of glazing the doughnuts for a different flavor.
• Use different spices like cardamom or ginger for a unique twist.
• Fill the doughnuts with jelly, custard, or chocolate ganache for a filled doughnut variation.

storage/reheating

Store leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to refresh the glaze and texture.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast. You can skip the proofing step and add the yeast directly to the dry ingredients.

Can I make these doughnuts ahead of time?

While doughnuts are best served fresh, you can prepare the dough the night before, let it rise overnight in the fridge, and fry them the next day.

Can I make these doughnuts in a doughnut pan?

Yes, you can use a doughnut pan to bake them instead of frying. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes.

How do I know when the doughnuts are done frying?

The doughnuts are done when they are golden brown on both sides. You can also use a thermometer to check that the oil is at the correct temperature (350°F/175°C).

Can I freeze these doughnuts?

Yes, you can freeze the doughnuts before glazing. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 1-2 months. Reheat them in the oven before glazing and serving.

Can I use a different glaze?

Yes, you can use a chocolate glaze, maple glaze, or even a honey glaze for different flavors.

How do I make my doughnuts extra fluffy?

Make sure to knead the dough well and allow it to rise fully before frying. The dough should be soft and elastic for the best texture.

Can I add fillings to these doughnuts?

Yes, you can pipe fillings like jelly, cream cheese, or chocolate ganache into the center of the doughnuts after frying.

How do I store doughnuts overnight?

Store doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature. If you have a lot, layer them with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.

Can I make the doughnut dough by hand?

Yes, you can knead the dough by hand if you don’t have a stand mixer. Just be sure to knead for 7-8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Conclusion

Homemade Glazed Doughnuts are a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time you want a sweet indulgence. With their fluffy texture and sweet glaze, these doughnuts are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they’re a fun homemade version of the classic doughnut you’ll love making again and again.

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