Make light, airy, yeast-raised donuts with a simple, sweet vanilla glaze at home.
Author:Claire
Prep Time:45 min
Cook Time:20 min
Total Time:2 hours 45 min
Yield:12-15 donuts 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Frying
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup whole milk, warmed to 105-115°F
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1/2 cup granulated sugar, plus 2 cups for glaze
2 large eggs, room temperature
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon salt
4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
Vegetable oil, for frying
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons light corn syrup
Instructions
Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of the granulated sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Mix the dough: Add the remaining 1/2 cup sugar, eggs, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir well. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Cut donuts: Punch down the dough. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to 1/2 inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two different-sized round cutters to cut out the donuts and holes.
Second rise: Place the cut donuts on parchment-lined baking sheets. Cover loosely and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy. Do not overproof.
Fry: Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven to 350°F. Carefully place 2-3 donuts in the hot oil. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.
Make the glaze: While the donuts cool slightly, whisk together the 2 cups of granulated sugar, vanilla extract, corn syrup, and 1/2 cup of hot water until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add a teaspoon of hot water at a time.
Glaze: Dip the warm donuts (top and bottom) into the glaze. Place them back on the wire rack to allow the glaze to set. Serve immediately for the best texture.
Notes
For the best results, ensure your milk is the correct temperature for activating the yeast.
If you are interested in structured eating plans, look into options like meal planning or keto meal plan delivery services.
Keep the oil temperature consistent; if it is too low, the donuts will absorb too much oil and taste greasy.