There’s nothing quite like the taste of freshly made classic glazed doughnuts—soft, fluffy, and coated in a sweet, shiny glaze. Whether you’re craving a morning treat or a delightful snack, these homemade doughnuts will rival any bakery’s offerings. The process involves making a yeasted dough, frying to golden perfection, and finishing with a luscious vanilla glaze. While it requires patience, the result is worth every step!
Ingredients:
For the Doughnuts:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk (warm)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Sprinkle the yeast over the milk mixture and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
- Add the eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and the activated yeast mixture.
- Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
Step 3: Shape the Doughnuts
- Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about ½-inch thickness.
- Use a doughnut cutter or two round cutters (one large, one small) to shape the doughnuts.
- Place the cut doughnuts on a parchment-lined tray, cover, and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
Step 4: Fry to Perfection
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully drop the doughnuts into the hot oil, frying 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove and place on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Make the Glaze
- In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Dip each warm doughnut into the glaze, letting the excess drip off.
- Place back on the wire rack and allow the glaze to set for 10-15 minutes.
Enjoy Your Homemade Doughnuts!
These classic glazed doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh, with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also customize them with sprinkles, chocolate drizzle, or even a cinnamon-sugar coating. Happy baking! 🍩✨
Want to explore more variations? Check out this recipe for additional tips and techniques!