Glazed Donuts – Best Homemade Recipe

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Glazed Donuts – Best Homemade Recipe

There’s something magical about biting into a warm, freshly glazed donut. Soft, airy inside with a slightly crisp golden exterior and a sweet vanilla glaze that melts into every crevice — homemade glazed donuts are pure comfort.

This recipe gives you bakery-style results right in your own kitchen. Light, fluffy, and perfectly sweet, these classic glazed donuts rival anything you’d find at a donut shop.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Ultra soft and fluffy texture

  • Sweet, glossy glaze

  • Made from scratch

  • Freezer-friendly

  • Perfect for breakfast or dessert

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rise Time: 1–1½ hours
Cook Time: 2–3 minutes per batch

Total Time: About 2 hours

Servings

Makes 12–14 donuts

Calories (Approximate)

About 220–260 calories per donut, depending on size and glaze thickness.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)

  • 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

  • 1 large egg

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

  • Oil for frying

For the Glaze:

  • 2 cups powdered sugar

  • 1/4 cup milk

  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Homemade Glazed Donuts

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a bowl, combine warm milk and yeast.

Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Add sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture.

Gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms.

Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

Place dough in a greased bowl.

Cover and let rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Donuts

Roll dough to about 1/2-inch thickness.

Use a donut cutter (or two round cutters) to cut out donuts and holes.

Place on a lined tray and let rise again for 20–30 minutes.

Step 5: Fry the Donuts

Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).

Carefully fry donuts 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown.

Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 6: Make the Glaze

Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.

Step 7: Glaze the Donuts

While donuts are still slightly warm, dip into glaze.

Place on a rack to set.

Expert Tips

Maintain Oil Temperature

Keep oil at 350°F for even cooking.

Don’t Overwork the Dough

Too much flour can make donuts dense.

Glaze While Warm

Helps glaze stick and creates that classic crackle finish.

Double Glaze

Dip twice for extra sweetness.

Flavor Variations

Chocolate Glaze

Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder to the glaze.

Maple Glaze

Replace milk with maple syrup.

Cinnamon Sugar

Skip glaze and roll warm donuts in cinnamon sugar.

Filled Donuts

Skip cutting holes and fill with jam or cream.

Storage

Best eaten fresh.

Store at room temperature for up to 1 day in an airtight container.

Freeze unglazed donuts for up to 2 months.

Texture Breakdown

Outside: Lightly crisp and golden
Inside: Soft, airy, and tender
Glaze: Sweet, glossy, and slightly crackly

Final Thoughts

Homemade glazed donuts are worth every minute. Soft, sweet, and bakery-quality, they’re a treat that brings smiles every time.

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