Classic Glazed Donuts Recipe: Soft, Fluffy, and Irresistibly Sweet

There’s something undeniably comforting about a freshly made glazed donut. The soft, airy texture paired with that delicate, sweet glaze makes it the perfect treat for breakfast, dessert, or any time you need a sugary pick-me-up. This homemade glazed donut recipe captures that bakery-style perfection right in your kitchen—pillowy on the inside, lightly golden on the outside, and finished with a silky vanilla glaze that melts in your mouth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and Fluffy Texture: These donuts are made with a yeast-based dough, giving them a light and airy crumb.
• Perfect Sweetness: The vanilla glaze offers just the right touch of sweetness without overpowering the donut itself.
• Better Than Store-Bought: Nothing beats the taste of a freshly fried donut straight from your own kitchen.
• Fun to Make: This recipe is beginner-friendly and a fun weekend baking project to enjoy with family or friends.

Ingredients

For the Donut Dough

• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Vanilla Glaze

• 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Glazed Donuts

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter, sugar, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the foamy yeast mixture to the bowl and stir to combine.
4. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 4-5 minutes.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape the Donuts

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out to about ½ inch thickness.
2. Use a donut cutter (or a round cutter and a smaller cutter for the hole) to cut out donuts.
3. Place the cut donuts on a parchment-lined tray, cover lightly, and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes until puffy.

Step 3: Fry the Donuts

1. In a large pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain consistent temperature.
2. Fry the donuts in batches, cooking each side for about 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
3. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the donuts to a paper towel-lined tray to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Glaze

1. In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Dip each warm donut into the glaze, allowing the excess to drip off.
3. Place glazed donuts on a wire rack to set for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Glazed Donuts

• Consistent Oil Temperature: Keep the oil between 350°F-360°F to ensure even cooking without greasy donuts.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: Over-kneading can make the donuts tough instead of soft.
• Serve Fresh: These donuts are best enjoyed fresh on the same day for that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Flavor Variations: Add a hint of almond extract to the glaze or sprinkle with crushed nuts for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Breakfast: Pair with a hot cup of coffee or a vanilla latte.
• Dessert: Serve alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Party Treat: Stack them on a platter for a fun and sweet centerpiece at brunch or celebrations.

Final Thoughts

Making glazed donuts at home is surprisingly simple and the reward is well worth the effort. Once you’ve had a bite of these soft, fluffy, and perfectly glazed delights, store-bought donuts just won’t compare.

Stick around—every visit tastes better than the last at The Buttered Bliss.