There’s nothing like the smell of freshly fried donuts wafting through the kitchen. This recipe for homemade donuts with a sweet glaze creates light, fluffy, and perfectly golden donuts that will make your kitchen smell heavenly. These donuts are made with a yeast-based dough that results in a soft, airy texture and are topped with a simple, sweet glaze. Whether you’re serving them at a brunch gathering, as an afternoon treat, or just indulging on a weekend morning, these donuts are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including rising time)
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes (for frying)
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Servings: Makes approximately 12 donuts
Ingredients
For the Donuts:
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (420g)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (100g)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- ½ cup water
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar (240g)
- ¼ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and yeast. Stir gently to dissolve and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. The mixture should become bubbly and foamy, signaling that the yeast is activated.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 ½ cups of flour, ½ cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Add the activated yeast mixture, 2 large eggs, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Mix together until the dough starts to come together. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. This helps develop the gluten, which gives the donuts their soft texture.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until the dough has doubled in size.
Step 2: Shape and Fry the Donuts
- Shape the Donuts: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough out to about ½-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (about 3 inches) to cut out the donuts and a smaller cutter (about 1 inch) to make the hole in the center. Gather the dough scraps, reroll, and cut out additional donuts.
- Second Rise: Place the shaped donuts on a floured baking sheet and cover them with a clean towel. Let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 3-4 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat to 350°F (175°C). Make sure the oil is at the right temperature before frying to ensure the donuts cook evenly and don’t become greasy.
- Fry the Donuts: Carefully drop the donuts into the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry for about 2 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove the donuts from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 3: Make the Glaze
- Prepare the Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of powdered sugar, ¼ cup of whole milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and glossy. If the glaze is too thick, add more milk, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 4: Glaze the Donuts
- Dip the Donuts: While the donuts are still warm, dip each one into the glaze, covering it completely. Use tongs or a fork to dip them and let any excess glaze drip off before placing them on a wire rack.
- Set the Glaze: Allow the glazed donuts to sit on the rack for a few minutes to let the glaze set. Once the glaze is firm, the donuts are ready to be served.
Serving Suggestions
- With Coffee or Tea: Serve these donuts with your favorite coffee or tea for a classic breakfast or afternoon treat.
- For a Special Touch: Add sprinkles, crushed nuts, or a drizzle of chocolate on top of the glaze for added flair.
- As a Dessert: Serve them warm as a sweet dessert for a family gathering or dinner party.
- With Fresh Fruit: Pair the donuts with fresh berries or a fruit compote to balance out the sweetness.
Cooking Tips
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can make the donuts dense.
- Oil Temperature: Keep the frying oil at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure accuracy.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the donuts in batches to ensure they cook evenly and don’t stick together.
- Make Ahead: You can make the donut dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge overnight. Just let it rise and come to room temperature before frying.
Nutritional Benefits
- Eggs: Eggs are a great source of protein, vitamins A, D, and B12, helping with muscle repair and immune function.
- Dairy: The milk and butter in this recipe provide calcium and vitamins essential for strong bones and overall health.
- Sugar: While sugar gives the donuts their sweetness, they should be enjoyed in moderation for energy.
- Homemade Goodness: Making these donuts from scratch allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring no artificial additives or preservatives are included.
Conclusion
These homemade glazed donuts are a perfect indulgence for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, serving them at a party, or treating yourself to something sweet, they are sure to impress. The golden, fluffy texture of the donuts paired with the sweet, glossy glaze makes them irresistible. With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, these donuts are a fun and delicious project to try at home. Enjoy with family, friends, or on your own with a cup of coffee!
5 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these donuts in advance?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge overnight. Just let it rise before frying.
2. Can I use a different type of oil for frying?
Yes, you can use other oils like canola oil or peanut oil. Just ensure it has a high smoke point for frying.
3. Can I bake the donuts instead of frying them?
While frying gives the donuts their classic texture, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, but they may not be as crispy.
4. How can I make the glaze thicker?
If the glaze is too thin, simply add more powdered sugar until you reach the desired thickness.
5. Can I freeze the donuts?
Yes, you can freeze the donuts. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat them in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.