Homemade Glazed Donuts: A Step-by-Step Recipe for Perfectly Soft and Sweet Donuts

Craving the perfect donut? These homemade glazed donuts are soft, fluffy, and covered in a sweet, glossy glaze that will melt in your mouth. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat, these donuts are sure to be a hit. Follow this easy step-by-step guide to make the most delicious homemade donuts that rival any bakery’s!

Ingredients:

For the Donuts:

• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
• ½ cup warm milk
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Glaze:

• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 3 tbsp milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a small bowl, add the warm milk and sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
3. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, vanilla extract, and softened butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape the Donuts

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about ½ inch thickness.
2. Use a round cutter to cut out the donut shapes. Use a smaller round cutter or a bottle cap to cut out the hole in the center.
3. Place the shaped donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with a towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.

Step 3: Fry the Donuts

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Test the temperature by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil — it should bubble and rise to the surface immediately.
2. Carefully place the donuts into the hot oil, a few at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry each side for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Remove the donuts from the oil and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

1. While the donuts are cooling slightly, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth and glossy.
2. Dip each warm donut into the glaze, ensuring the entire top is covered in the sweet glaze.
3. Place the glazed donuts back on the wire rack to let the glaze set for a few minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Once the glaze has set, the donuts are ready to be served!
2. Enjoy your homemade glazed donuts with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk.

Tips for the Best Donuts:

• Make sure the oil temperature is steady at 350°F to ensure the donuts fry evenly without burning.
• For extra flavor, you can add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a spiced version of these donuts.
• Don’t skip the second rise; it’s important for achieving light and fluffy donuts.

Conclusion:

These Homemade Glazed Donuts are the perfect balance of sweetness and fluffiness, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. With a golden, crispy exterior and soft, tender interior, topped with a luscious glaze, these donuts are sure to impress everyone. Make these delicious donuts today and enjoy the taste of freshly fried donuts right from your kitchen!