Classic Glazed Donuts are light, fluffy, and fried to golden perfection, then coated in a sweet, shiny glaze. These homemade donuts have a soft, pillowy texture and a rich vanilla-infused glaze, making them a delicious treat for breakfast, dessert, or any time of the day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Freshly made donuts taste better than store-bought versions.
- Soft, airy texture with a perfect balance of sweetness.
- A simple glaze that adds the right amount of shine and sweetness.
- Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as a special treat.
- Can be customized with different toppings or fillings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Donuts:
- All-purpose flour
- Granulated sugar
- Active dry yeast
- Whole milk, warmed
- Unsalted butter, melted
- Eggs
- Salt
- Vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Glaze:
- Powdered sugar
- Whole milk
- Vanilla extract
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Add the yeast mixture and knead until a soft dough forms.
- First rise: Cover the dough with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
Step 2: Shape and Fry the Donuts
- Roll and cut: Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ½-inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters to shape the donuts.
- Second rise: Place the donuts on a parchment-lined tray and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Heat the oil: In a deep pan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the donuts: Fry each donut for about 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 3: Glaze the Donuts
- Make the glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Dip the donuts: While still warm, dip each donut into the glaze, letting the excess drip off. Place on a wire rack to set.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 donuts
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Rise Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2.5 hours
Variations
- Chocolate Glaze: Replace vanilla glaze with melted chocolate glaze.
- Cinnamon Sugar: Skip the glaze and coat the donuts in cinnamon sugar.
- Filled Donuts: Inject donuts with custard, jam, or Nutella before glazing.
- Baked Version: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes instead of frying.
- Maple Glaze: Swap vanilla extract for maple extract in the glaze.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unglazed donuts in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low oven at 300°F for 5 minutes.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate the dough overnight and let it come to room temperature before frying.
Why are my donuts dense instead of fluffy?
Over-kneading or not allowing enough rise time can result in dense donuts.
How do I know if the oil is the right temperature for frying?
Use a thermometer to ensure the oil stays around 350°F (175°C) for even frying.
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, use the same amount, but you can skip the proofing step and mix it directly with the flour.
What is the best oil for frying donuts?
Vegetable oil or canola oil works best for frying due to their neutral flavor and high smoke point.
How can I make these donuts healthier?
Try baking them instead of frying, but they will have a slightly different texture.
Can I make mini donuts with this recipe?
Yes, cut smaller rounds and fry for a shorter time, about 45 seconds per side.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all ingredients and follow the same instructions.
How do I prevent the glaze from becoming too runny?
Add more powdered sugar to thicken it, or reduce the milk slightly.
What’s the best way to store leftover donuts?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature and enjoy within 1-2 days for the best freshness.
Conclusion
Classic Glazed Donuts are a timeless treat that brings bakery-quality flavors to your kitchen. With a soft, airy interior and a sweet, glossy glaze, these donuts are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or sharing with loved ones. Whether fried or baked, they’re sure to be a favorite for any occasion
Print
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 donuts 1x
Description
These Classic Glazed Donuts are soft, fluffy, and covered in a sweet vanilla glaze. A homemade version of your favorite bakery treat!
Ingredients
For the Donuts:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Oil for frying
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: Dissolve yeast in warm milk and let sit for 5 minutes. Mix with sugar, butter, egg, salt, and flour. Knead until smooth.
- Let it rise: Cover and let the dough rise for 1 hour.
- Cut out donuts: Roll out the dough and cut circles using a donut cutter or glass.
- Fry: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry donuts until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Glaze & serve: Mix glaze ingredients and dip warm donuts. Let set and enjoy!
Notes
- Use warm milk to activate the yeast properly.
- Let the donuts cool slightly before glazing.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep fresh.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast/Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American