Glazed Donuts Recipe

Active dry yeast: This ingredient helps the dough rise, giving the donuts their light and airy texture.

Warm water: Used to activate the yeast.

Warm milk: Adds moisture and richness to the dough.

Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps activate the yeast.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the donuts.

Large eggs: Provide structure and richness to the dough.

Butter: Adds flavor and tenderness to the dough.

All-purpose flour: The main structure of the dough.

Powdered sugar: Used for the glaze, it dissolves smoothly and creates a shiny finish.

Milk: Combined with powdered sugar to make the glaze.

Vanilla extract: Adds a rich, sweet flavor to the glaze.

When dissolving the yeast in warm water, ensure the water is between 105°F and 115°F. Water that is too hot can kill the yeast, while water that is too cold will not activate it properly. This step is crucial for achieving the right dough consistency and ensuring a good rise.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used in the same quantity and does not need to be dissolved in water first.

• warm water - Substitute with warm milk: Warm milk can provide a richer flavor and softer texture to the dough.

• warm milk - Substitute with warm almond milk: Almond milk is a good dairy-free alternative that still provides the necessary liquid and slight sweetness.

• granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a different depth of sweetness and moisture to the dough.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a slightly different flavor profile and is often considered a healthier option.

• large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoon water per egg) are a good vegan alternative that helps bind the dough.

• butter, melted - Substitute with coconut oil, melted: Coconut oil is a dairy-free option that can provide a subtle coconut flavor and similar fat content.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add more fiber and nutrients, though it may result in a denser texture.

• powdered sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be ground into a fine powder and used as a lower glycemic index alternative.

• milk - Substitute with oat milk: Oat milk is a creamy, dairy-free alternative that works well in glazes.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor to the glaze.

• Allow the glazed donuts to cool completely on wire racks before storing or freezing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make the donuts soggy.

• For short-term storage, place the donuts in an airtight container. Line the container with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days.

• To keep the donuts fresh for a longer period, wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped donuts in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

• For freezing, wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.

• Once frozen, transfer the donuts to a resealable plastic freezer bag or airtight container. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the donuts at room temperature for about 1-2 hours. For a warm treat, reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.

• If the glaze has become sticky or melted during storage, you can re-dip the donuts in a fresh batch of glaze. Prepare the glaze as per the original recipe and dip the donuts before serving.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the glazed donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the glaze from melting too much. Heat for about 5-7 minutes or until they are warmed through. This method helps maintain the donuts' texture and keeps them from becoming too soggy.

• Microwave Method: Place a glazed donut on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for about 10-15 seconds. Check the donut and add a few more seconds if necessary. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the donut rubbery. This method is quick and convenient for a fast treat.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 300°F. Place the glazed donuts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for about 2-3 minutes. This method helps to slightly crisp up the donuts while keeping the inside soft and warm.

• Stovetop Steaming Method: Fill a pot with a small amount of water and bring it to a simmer. Place a heatproof plate or steamer basket over the simmering water, ensuring it doesn't touch the water. Place the glazed donuts on the plate or in the basket, cover with a lid, and steam for about 1-2 minutes. This method helps to gently reheat the donuts without drying them out.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F. Place the glazed donuts on a baking tray and cover them loosely with aluminum foil. Heat for about 5 minutes or until warmed through. This method is similar to the oven method but is more suitable for smaller batches.

• Small bowl: Used to dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it stand until frothy.

• Large mixing bowl: Used to combine the yeast mixture, warm milk, sugar, salt, eggs, butter, and flour to form the dough.

• Electric mixer: Helps beat the mixture on medium speed until smooth.

• Floured surface: Provides a workspace to knead the dough until smooth and elastic.

• Greased bowl: Used to place the dough in for rising, ensuring it doesn't stick.

• Plastic wrap or clean towel: Covers the dough while it rises to keep it warm and moist.

• Rolling pin: Rolls the dough to a ½-inch thickness.

• Donut cutter: Cuts the dough into donut shapes.

• Greased baking sheets: Holds the cut donuts while they rise a second time.

• Electric skillet or deep fryer: Heats the oil to 375°F for frying the donuts.

• Tongs or slotted spoon: Used to carefully place and remove donuts from the hot oil.

• Paper towels: Drains excess oil from the fried donuts.

• Wire racks: Cools the glazed donuts.

• Large bowl: Used to mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for the glaze.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting. This minimizes interruptions during the process.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can save time and effort when mixing the dough, ensuring a smooth and consistent texture.

Proof in a warm oven: Speed up the dough rising process by placing it in a slightly warm oven. Preheat to the lowest setting, then turn it off before placing the dough inside.

Cut donuts efficiently: Use a donut cutter to quickly and uniformly cut the dough, reducing prep time.

Make glaze ahead: Prepare the glaze while the donuts are rising to streamline the final steps.