Follow Me On Social Media!
THE BEST Homemade Glazed Donuts (Soft, Fluffy & Perfectly Sweet)
There’s something magical about biting into a fresh, warm glazed donut. The thin crackle of sugary glaze gives way to a soft, airy interior that practically melts in your mouth. If you’ve ever wondered how to make bakery-style donuts at home, this homemade glazed donuts recipe is exactly what you need.
These donuts are light, fluffy, and coated in a classic vanilla glaze that sets beautifully while remaining delicately sweet. Whether you’re making them for a cozy weekend breakfast, a holiday brunch, or just because you’re craving something special, this recipe delivers consistently perfect results.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything from kneading the dough to achieving that signature glossy glaze. Let’s dive into the ultimate easy donut recipe that tastes even better than your favorite donut shop.
Why You’ll Love These Homemade Glazed Donuts
- Soft, airy yeast dough
- Lightly crisp golden exterior
- Sweet, classic vanilla glaze
- Bakery-style results at home
- Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or gatherings
Unlike cake donuts, these are fried yeast donuts, which means they rise beautifully and have that iconic fluffy texture everyone loves.
What Makes Classic Glazed Donuts So Special?
Classic glazed donuts are all about balance. The dough isn’t overly sweet — instead, the sweetness comes primarily from the glaze. The result? A donut that feels indulgent without being overwhelming.
The secret lies in:
- Proper yeast activation
- Gentle kneading for elasticity
- Correct oil temperature
- A perfectly thin glaze consistency
Master these steps, and you’ll have the best homemade donuts every single time.
Ingredients
For the Donut Dough
- 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
For the Classic Glaze
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup whole milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures your yeast is active and ready to rise.
2. Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough
Knead by hand for 8–10 minutes or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–6 minutes. The dough should become smooth and slightly tacky but not sticky.
4. First Rise
Place dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a clean towel and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Donuts
Roll the dough to about ½-inch thickness on a floured surface. Use a donut cutter (or two round cutters) to shape donuts. Place them on a parchment-lined tray.
6. Second Rise
Cover lightly and let rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffy.
7. Heat the Oil
Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Maintaining the correct temperature is crucial — too hot and they burn; too cool and they absorb excess oil.
8. Fry the Donuts
Fry 2–3 donuts at a time for about 1 minute per side until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack.
9. Prepare the Glaze
Whisk powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and salt until smooth. The glaze should be thin enough to coat but thick enough to set.
10. Glaze the Donuts
While donuts are still slightly warm, dip them into the glaze. Place back on a rack and allow glaze to set for 10–15 minutes.
Pro Tips for Perfect Homemade Donuts
1. Check Your Yeast
If it doesn’t foam during activation, start over. Fresh yeast is essential.
2. Don’t Over-Flour
Too much flour makes dense donuts. The dough should be soft.
3. Monitor Oil Temperature
Use a thermometer. Consistency ensures evenly cooked donuts.
4. Glaze at the Right Time
Donuts should be warm, not hot, when glazing. This creates that smooth, crackly finish.
Variations to Try
Chocolate Glazed Donuts
Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder to the glaze.
Maple Glaze
Replace milk with maple syrup for a rich autumn flavor.
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Skip glaze and toss warm donuts in cinnamon sugar.
Filled Donuts
Skip cutting holes and fill with jam, custard, or chocolate cream.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with fresh coffee
- Pair with cold milk for a nostalgic treat
- Add to brunch spreads
- Stack on a cake stand for parties
These classic glazed donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Storage & Reheating
- Room temperature: 1 day
- Freezer: Up to 2 months (unglazed)
- Reheat: 8–10 seconds in microwave
Fun Donut Facts
- Donuts likely originated from Dutch settlers.
- The hole was popularized in the mid-1800s.
- Americans consume billions of donuts each year!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, but texture will differ. Bake at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.
Why are my donuts greasy?
Oil temperature was too low.
Can I make the dough ahead?
Yes! Refrigerate overnight after first rise.
Final Thoughts
Making homemade glazed donuts from scratch might seem intimidating, but once you try it, you’ll realize how rewarding and surprisingly simple it is. With the right technique and a little patience, you can create soft, fluffy, bakery-style donuts that rival any shop.
There’s nothing quite like pulling a batch of warm, golden donuts from your kitchen and dipping them into sweet vanilla glaze. One bite, and you’ll understand why this is truly the best homemade donuts recipe you’ll ever make.
Homemade Glazed Donuts
Soft, fluffy yeast-raised donuts fried to golden perfection and coated in a classic vanilla glaze.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Activate yeast in warm milk with sugar until foamy.
- Mix flour and salt, then add yeast mixture, eggs, butter, and vanilla to form dough.
- Knead until smooth and elastic.
- Let dough rise until doubled in size.
- Roll out and cut donut shapes.
- Allow donuts to rise again until puffy.
- Fry at 350°F until golden brown on both sides.
- Dip warm donuts into glaze and let set.
Notes
Maintain oil temperature for best texture. Best enjoyed fresh.
