Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, sprinkle the active dry yeast over the warm milk. Add a pinch of sugar to help activate the yeast.
- Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy and bubbly. This means the yeast is active and ready to use.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, remaining sugar, salt, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Pour in the activated yeast mixture and stir to combine.
- Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 3: Roll and Cut the Donuts
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Transfer it to a floured surface.
- Roll the dough out to about 1/2 inch thick.
- Use a donut cutter or two round cutters (one larger for the outer edge and one smaller for the hole) to cut out your donuts.
- Gather the scraps of dough, reroll, and cut more donuts until all the dough is used.
Step 4: Fry the Donuts
- In a large pot or deep fryer, heat about 3-4 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). You can check the temperature with a thermometer or drop a small piece of dough in the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
- Carefully drop a few donuts into the hot oil at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 1-2 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the donuts and place them on a paper towel-lined tray to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Glaze the Donuts
- While the donuts are cooling slightly, prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sifted powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. Add more milk to achieve your desired glaze consistency (thicker for a more opaque glaze, thinner for a glossy finish).
- Dip each donut into the glaze while it’s still warm, ensuring it’s fully coated. Place the glazed donuts on a cooling rack or plate to let the glaze set.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Once the glaze has set, the donuts are ready to enjoy! Serve them fresh, warm, and soft.
Tips for Success
- Perfect Frying: Keep the oil temperature between 350°F and 375°F to avoid greasy or undercooked donuts. If the oil is too hot, the donuts will cook too quickly on the outside while remaining raw inside.
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: Be gentle with the dough to maintain its light and airy texture. Overworking it can make the donuts dense.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add your own twist to the glaze. Try adding a little cocoa powder for chocolate glaze, a dash of cinnamon for a spiced glaze, or even a little citrus zest for a refreshing lemon glaze.
- Make Donut Holes: Don’t toss out the small donut hole pieces—fry them just like the donuts for cute, bite-sized treats.
Why This Recipe Works
This Glazed Donut Recipe achieves the perfect balance between a light, airy interior and a golden, crispy exterior. The dough is rich with butter and eggs, providing a tender texture that’s complemented perfectly by the sweet, smooth glaze. Whether you enjoy them plain or topped with sprinkles or chopped nuts, these homemade donuts are sure to impress. Plus, the simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all levels!
So, next time you’re craving something sweet and comforting, make a batch of these homemade glazed donuts—they’re always a hit!