The Ultimate Guide to Homemade Glazed Doughnuts
Doughnuts are a beloved treat enjoyed across the world. Whether eaten as a breakfast indulgence, a midday snack, or a late-night craving, the fluffy, sweet, and glazed doughnut is a timeless delight. Making them at home allows you to enjoy fresh, warm doughnuts while customizing flavors to your liking.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about homemade glazed doughnuts, including their history, ingredients, preparation, and tips to perfect your doughnuts.
A Brief History of Doughnuts
Doughnuts have a long and fascinating history. Some believe they originated from Dutch settlers in the 17th century, who made deep-fried dough called “olykoeks” (oil cakes). Over time, the hole in the center became a defining feature, credited to an American sailor named Hanson Gregory in the mid-19th century.
Today, doughnuts come in countless varieties, from classic glazed to filled, frosted, and sprinkled. Yet, the simple glazed doughnut remains one of the most cherished versions worldwide.
Ingredients for Homemade Glazed Doughnuts
For the Dough:
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup warm milk
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
For Frying:
- 2-3 cups vegetable oil (for deep frying)
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
- In a small bowl, mix the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Add the melted butter, egg, and yeast mixture to the flour. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Shaping the Doughnuts
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ½-inch thickness.
- Use a doughnut cutter or two round cutters (one large and one small) to cut out doughnut shapes.
- Place the cut doughnuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 3: Frying the Doughnuts
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the doughnuts in batches, cooking each side for about 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Making the Glaze
- In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Dip each warm doughnut into the glaze, letting excess drip off.
- Place the glazed doughnuts back on the wire rack to allow the glaze to set.
The Science Behind Doughnut Formation
The yeast in the dough helps create air pockets, making the doughnuts light and fluffy. The frying process caramelizes the outer layer while sealing in moisture, giving them their iconic soft interior with a slightly crisp exterior.
The glaze is essential because it adds sweetness and a glossy finish while locking in freshness.
Who Loves Doughnuts?
Doughnuts have a global fanbase! In the U.S., Krispy Kreme and Dunkin’ Donuts have made them a staple treat. In France, beignets offer a similar experience. In Japan, unique flavors like matcha-glazed doughnuts are popular. No matter where you go, people love the combination of a warm, soft doughnut with a sweet glaze.
Conclusion
Making homemade glazed doughnuts is a rewarding experience. With a little patience and practice, you can create bakery-quality treats right in your kitchen. Whether you enjoy them with coffee, milk, or on their own, fresh homemade doughnuts will always be a crowd-pleaser.
Would you like to try adding different flavors, fillings, or toppings? Let me know, and I can provide variations!