There’s something magical about a fresh, warm doughnut. The golden-brown exterior, the soft and pillowy inside, and that sweet, glossy glaze that cracks just a little when you take a bite—pure bliss! Making doughnuts from scratch might seem like a big task, but trust me, it’s easier than you think, and the result is absolutely worth it. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a total beginner, this recipe will have you feeling like a doughnut pro in no time. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and let’s make some magic in the kitchen!
Why You’ll Love Homemade Glazed Doughnuts
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re making these for a cozy weekend treat, a fun gathering with friends, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, these doughnuts fit any occasion. Here’s why they’re a must-try:
Versatile: You can keep them classic or add toppings like sprinkles, chocolate drizzle, or even a cinnamon sugar coating.
Budget-Friendly: Making doughnuts at home is way cheaper than buying them from a bakery, and you probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry!
Quick and Easy: The dough comes together easily, and while there’s some resting time involved, the actual hands-on work is minimal.
Customizable: Want a different glaze? Go for it! Prefer a filled doughnut? That’s an option too! This recipe is a great base for all your creative ideas.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. These doughnuts strike the perfect balance of flavor and indulgence, making them a universal favorite.
Ingredients
Here’s what makes these doughnuts so irresistible. Simple ingredients, big results!
Flour: The base of the dough, giving it the perfect balance of structure and softness.
Yeast: The secret to that airy, fluffy texture. If using active dry yeast, make sure it’s properly bloomed before mixing.
Sugar: A little sweetness for the dough itself, plus the key to that perfectly glossy glaze.
Milk: Adds richness and keeps the dough soft.
Butter: For that melt-in-your-mouth texture and delicious flavor.
Eggs: Help bind the dough and give it a light, tender crumb.
Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Oil: Used for frying, giving the doughnuts their golden-brown perfection.
Vanilla Extract: A little extra warmth and depth of flavor.
Instructions
Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it’s foamy. This step ensures your dough will rise properly.
Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and yeast mixture. Knead until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Let It Rise: Cover the dough and let it rest in a warm spot for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Roll and Cut: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about ½-inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter (or a glass and a smaller cutter for the center) to shape your doughnuts.
Second Rise: Place the cut doughnuts on a baking sheet, cover with a towel, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
Fry to Perfection: Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the doughnuts in batches for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove and place on a wire rack with paper towels underneath.
Glaze Time: Dip each warm doughnut into the glaze, letting the excess drip off. Place them back on the rack to set.
Enjoy! Once the glaze has set, dig in and enjoy your homemade glazed doughnuts!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12 doughnuts
Calories per serving: Approximately 250 kcal
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including rise time)
How to Serve Homemade Glazed Doughnuts
These doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh and warm, but they can also be served in creative ways:
- Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for the perfect breakfast treat.
- Slice them in half and add ice cream for a next-level dessert.
- Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- Sprinkle crushed nuts or coconut on top for added texture.
Additional Tips
- Make sure your oil is at the right temperature before frying—too hot, and they’ll burn; too cold, and they’ll absorb too much oil.
- If you don’t have a doughnut cutter, a large glass and a small bottle cap work great!
- Let the dough rise properly for the fluffiest results.
- Store leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the microwave for 10 seconds to bring back the softness.
FAQs
Can I bake these instead of frying? Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes until golden.
How do I store leftover doughnuts? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Can I freeze the dough? Absolutely! Freeze the cut-out doughnuts on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag and freeze for up to a month.
What if I don’t have yeast? Try a cake-style doughnut recipe instead, which uses baking powder.
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes! Let the dough rise in the fridge overnight and fry fresh in the morning.
Why did my doughnuts turn out greasy? The oil was too cold. Always fry at the right temperature!
Can I use whole wheat flour? You can, but the texture will be denser. Try half whole wheat, half all-purpose flour for a balance.
How can I make a chocolate glaze? Just add cocoa powder to the glaze mixture and mix well.
What’s the best oil for frying? Vegetable or canola oil works best because of their neutral flavors.
Can I use a stand mixer? Yes! Use the dough hook attachment to knead the dough until smooth.
Conclusion
Homemade glazed doughnuts are easier than you think, and they’re guaranteed to bring smiles to anyone who takes a bite. Whether you keep them simple or get creative with toppings, making them yourself is a game-changer. So go ahead—treat yourself to a batch of warm, fresh, and incredibly delicious doughnuts. Happy baking!
Print
Homemade Glazed Doughnuts
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours (including rise time)
- Yield: 12 doughnuts 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Homemade Glazed Doughnuts are light, fluffy, and coated in a sweet vanilla glaze. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a special treat, they taste just like classic bakery-style doughnuts!
Ingredients
For the Doughnuts:
- 3 1/2 cups (440g) all-purpose flour
- 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
For the Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, mix warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, butter, egg, and vanilla. Add the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Doughnuts: Roll out the dough to about ½ inch thick. Cut out doughnuts using a 3-inch cutter and a 1-inch cutter for the hole. Place them on a parchment-lined tray.
- Second Rise: Cover and let the doughnuts rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
- Fry the Doughnuts: Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry doughnuts for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Make the Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Dip warm doughnuts in the glaze and place on a wire rack to set.
- Serve & Enjoy!
Notes
- Use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast for a quicker rise.
- Store doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For a chocolate glaze, replace milk with heavy cream and add 2 tbsp cocoa powder.
- Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds for a fresh taste!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 doughnut
- Calories: ~290 kcal
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg