Fluffy Glazed Donuts Recipe

There aren’t many sweet treats that are as much fun as biting into a fluffy baked donut. The soft, pillowy dough and the rich, sweet glaze make for a unique taste experience. We have a treat for those who have ever thought about how to make this divine treat at home. This complete guide will show you how to make the best-frosted donuts that are fluffy and light. We have everything you need, from the standard yeast doughnut to a simple but delicious baked version. Preparing the kitchen is the first step to making the tastiest frosted donuts you’ll ever taste.

The Classic Old-Fashioned Yeast Doughnuts Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s start with the essentials. To make old-fashioned yeast doughnuts, gather the following ingredients:

• All-Purpose Flour: Begin with 2 and 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour.
• Dry Yeast: You’ll need 2 and 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast to help your dough rise.
• Milk: Have 2/3 cup of whole milk at room temperature.
• Granulated Sugar: Prepare 1/4 cup of granulated sugar to sweeten the dough.
• Unsalted Butter: Measure out 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter at room temperature.
• Salt: Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt to enhance the flavors.
• Egg: Crack one large egg into the mix.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhance the aroma with 1/2 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract.
• Vegetable Oil: To fry your doughnuts, have enough vegetable oil in your deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot.

The Steps to Fluffy Perfection

1. Activate the Yeast: Combine the yeast and a tablespoon of warm water in a small bowl. Allow it to sit for a few minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, butter, salt, egg, vanilla extract, milk, and the activated yeast mixture. Knead until you have a soft, elastic dough.
3. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for an hour or until it doubles in size.
4. Shape the Doughnuts: Roll out the dough and cut it into your desired doughnut shapes. Let them rest for about 15 minutes.
5. Second Rise: Let the doughnuts rise again for 30 minutes after shaping.
6. Fry to Golden Perfection: Heat the vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C) and carefully fry the doughnuts until golden.
7. Glaze and Enjoy: Dip your freshly fried doughnuts into a simple glaze of confectioner’s sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. 

Important Tips

• Always ensure that your milk and butter are at room temperature to aid in the mixing and rising of the dough.
• Don’t rush the dough’s rising time; this step is crucial for creating that light, airy texture.
• Use a thermometer to monitor the oil’s temperature while frying. Maintaining the correct oil temperature is essential for perfect donuts.

Light and Fluffy Glazed Donuts Recipe

A Simpler Alternative

Try this easy recipe for a quicker, no-fuss alternative to yeast doughnuts.

Ingredients

Gather 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 and 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 cup of whole milk, 2 large eggs, 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.

The Simple Steps

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, ground nutmeg, and salt.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Mix It All: Combine the dry and wet ingredients until you have a smooth batter.
4. Fry and Glaze: Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C), drop spoonfuls of batter into the oil, and fry until golden brown. Dip in a simple glaze of confectioner’s sugar and milk.

Baked Glazed Donut Recipe

A Healthier Twist

Here’s a guilt-free recipe for those looking for a baked, not fried alternative.

Ingredients: 

You’ll need 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 cup of whole milk, 2 large eggs, 1/4 cup of vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.

The Steps to a Healthier Treat

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, ground nutmeg, and salt.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
3. Blend It All: Combine the dry and wet ingredients until the batter is smooth.
4. Fill the Donut Pan: Spoon the batter into a greased donut pan.
5. Bake to Perfection: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes or until the donuts are golden brown.
6. Glaze and Enjoy: Dip the freshly baked donuts in a glaze or sprinkle with powdered sugar.

The Irresistible Krispy Kreme Donut Recipe

Unlocking the Secret

Krispy Kreme has long been known for its iconic glazed donuts. Now, you can create them at home with this copycat recipe.

Ingredients: 

Gather 2 and 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 2 and 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast, 2/3 cup of whole milk, 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 large egg, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and vegetable oil for frying.

Krispy Kreme Perfection

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the yeast with warm water and let it sit until it’s foamy.
2. Mix the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, butter, salt, egg, vanilla extract, milk, and the activated yeast mixture. Knead until the dough is soft.
3. Rising Time: Let the dough rise for an hour, punch it down, and refrigerate for at least an hour.
4. Shape and Rise Again: Roll out the dough, cut your donuts, and let them rise for 30 minutes.
5. Fry to Perfection: Fry in hot oil until golden brown.
6. Glaze and Savor: Dip in a classic Krispy Kreme glaze and enjoy the authentic flavor.

Best Practices for Fluffy Glazed Donuts

Mastering the Art

Creating the perfect glazed donuts is an art. Here are some additional tips to ensure success:

• Glazing Techniques: Experiment with different techniques, such as dipping or pouring, to achieve your desired finish.
• Freshness: Enjoy your glazed donuts within the first few hours of making them for the best flavor and texture.
• Custom Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite flavors and extracts to the dough for unique twists on this classic treat.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of oil for frying?

You can choose any vegetable oil or even peanut oil for frying. Each oil will impart a slightly different flavor, so select your favorite.

Can I make the dough in advance and fry it later?

Yes, you can make the dough the night before, refrigerate it, and fry it in the morning for fresh, hot donuts.

What’s the secret to getting the glaze just right?

The secret is in the temperature. Ensure your glaze is slightly warm when dipping the donuts for that perfect, even coat.

Are there any vegan egg and dairy ingredients alternatives?

Certainly! You can use plant-based milk and egg substitutes like flax eggs or applesauce to create vegan-friendly glazed donuts.

Can I store glazed donuts for later?

Store them in a container for up to 2-3 days. However, they’re always best when enjoyed fresh.

Conclusion

Creating the perfect fluffy glazed donuts is an art and a delightful journey. Whether you opt for the classic yeast doughnut, a simpler version, a baked treat, or even the iconic Krispy Kreme replica, the outcome is always the same – pure delight. From the first bite, you’ll understand why these delectable treats have captured the hearts of dessert enthusiasts worldwide. Share the joy with family and friends, and let the aroma of freshly baked donuts fill your kitchen. The sweet rewards of your donut-making journey are truly irresistible.