Soft and Sweet Homemade Glazed Donuts: A Simple Recipe for Freshly Fried Treats

There’s nothing like the warm, fresh taste of a homemade donut! These Soft and Sweet Homemade Glazed Donuts are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and covered in a luscious glaze that will leave you craving more. Whether it’s for breakfast, dessert, or a special treat, this easy recipe will guide you to making the best homemade donuts from scratch. Let’s dive in!

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. Start by dissolving the yeast in warm milk in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy.
2. In a separate large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, vanilla extract, and softened butter to the dry ingredients. Stir the mixture until it forms a dough.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough into a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape the Donuts

1. Punch down the dough to release the air. Roll it out onto a floured surface to about ½ inch thickness.
2. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters to shape your donuts. Use a smaller cutter to make the hole in the center.
3. Place the shaped donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and cover them with a towel. Let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until they puff up.

Step 3: Fry the Donuts

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). You can test the temperature by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil; it should rise to the surface immediately.
2. Carefully add the donuts to the hot oil, frying them for 1-2 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown.
3. Once fried, remove the donuts from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain the excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Glaze

1. While the donuts are cooling slightly, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl to make a smooth, glossy glaze.
2. Dip each warm donut into the glaze, covering the top with a generous amount.
3. Place the glazed donuts on a wire rack to let the glaze set.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Once the glaze has set, your homemade donuts are ready to be enjoyed!
2. Serve them fresh for breakfast, a snack, or a delightful dessert.

Pro Tips:

• Make sure to fry the donuts in small batches so they cook evenly and don’t overcrowd the pan.
• If you want an extra crispy exterior, you can increase the frying time slightly, but be careful not to overcook the donuts.
• You can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for a spiced variation of the classic glazed donut.

Conclusion:

These Soft and Sweet Homemade Glazed Donuts are an indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. They’re soft, fluffy, and golden, topped with a delicious glaze that makes them simply irresistible. This easy recipe is perfect for beginners and donut lovers alike. Try making them today and enjoy the warm, fresh taste of homemade donuts in the comfort of your own kitchen!