How to Make Homemade Glazed Doughnuts

Homemade glazed doughnuts are a delightful treat that can bring the joy of a bakery into your kitchen. Crafting these sweet, fluffy confections requires attention to detail and patience, but the results are well worth the effort. This guide will walk you through each step of the process to ensure your doughnuts turn out perfectly.

Ingredients

For the Doughnuts:

• 1 and 1/8 cups (270ml) whole milk, warmed to about 110°F (43°C)
• 2 and 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting

For the Glaze:

• 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk
• 2 cups (240g) confectioners’ sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For Frying:

• 2 quarts (1.9 liters) vegetable oil or shortening

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: Combine the warm milk and yeast in a small bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Combine Mixtures: Pour the yeast mixture into the wet ingredients and stir.
4. Add Flour: Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

1. Hand Kneading: Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 6 minutes until smooth.
2. Mixer Option: Use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 4-5 minutes.

Step 3: First Rise

1. Prepare for Rising: Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1.5-2 hours, until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Doughnuts

1. Roll Out Dough: Punch down the dough and roll to 1/2-inch (1.3 cm) thickness on a floured surface.
2. Cut Shapes: Use a doughnut cutter or two round cutters to shape the doughnuts. Re-roll scraps to cut additional doughnuts.

Step 5: Second Rise

1. Let Doughnuts Puff: Place the cut doughnuts on parchment-lined baking sheets. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes until slightly puffed.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

1. Make the Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together milk, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Set aside.

Step 7: Fry the Doughnuts

1. Heat Oil: Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (177°C).
2. Fry Doughnuts: Add a few doughnuts at a time. Fry each side for 1-2 minutes until golden.
3. Drain Excess Oil: Use a slotted spoon to transfer doughnuts to a paper towel-lined tray.

Step 8: Glaze the Doughnuts

1. Dip in Glaze: Dip each warm doughnut into the glaze and place on a wire rack to set.
2. Let Glaze Set: Allow the glaze to firm for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Tips for Success

1. Control Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil at a steady 350°F (177°C).
2. Perfect Rising: Ensure a warm, draft-free environment for the dough to rise.
3. Don’t Overcrowd: Fry a few doughnuts at a time to maintain oil temperature.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your homemade doughnuts with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or milk for the ultimate indulgence. You can also customize the glaze by adding cocoa powder, lemon zest, or cinnamon for added flavor.