There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about Classic Donuts with Sugar Glaze. The golden rings of soft, pillowy dough, freshly fried and dipped in a glossy, sweet glaze, evoke childhood memories of bakery mornings and weekend treats. These donuts are light, fluffy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, with that perfect balance of sweetness and richness that makes them absolutely addictive.

This classic recipe delivers that old-fashioned donut shop flavor right in your own kitchen. The dough is soft and buttery, lightly flavored with vanilla, and when paired with the smooth, shiny sugar glaze — it becomes a masterpiece. Whether you enjoy them plain, glazed, or with sprinkles, these donuts never fail to delight.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it captures the essence of true comfort baking. There’s a certain joy in watching simple ingredients — flour, yeast, eggs, butter, and sugar — transform into soft, airy donuts that are pure bliss with every bite.

The process itself is relaxing and rewarding — kneading the dough, cutting out those perfect circles, and dipping freshly fried donuts into the glaze that drips down just enough to glisten. And the aroma — oh, that warm, sweet scent of fried dough and vanilla glaze filling the kitchen — is pure happiness.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because it delivers bakery-style results right from your kitchen — without any special equipment or complicated steps. You get that light, fluffy interior, crispy golden crust, and glossy sugar glaze that makes every bite heavenly.

It’s also incredibly versatile — once you master this base recipe, you can create endless variations (chocolate glaze, cinnamon sugar, filled donuts, and more). And best of all, it’s made with simple pantry staples, so you can satisfy your donut cravings anytime.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Resting/Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
• Servings: 12 donuts (plus donut holes!)
• Calories: ~260 kcal per donut

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Breakfast / Dessert / Snack
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the Donut Dough:

• 3½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)

For the Sugar Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 3–4 tbsp milk (adjust for consistency)
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and yeast.
2. Stir and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy and bubbly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer), combine the remaining sugar, eggs, softened butter, vanilla, and salt. Mix until combined.
2. Add in the yeast mixture.
3. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 6–8 minutes (by hand or using a dough hook) until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

1. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Donuts

1. Once risen, punch down the dough to release air.
2. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about ½-inch thickness.
3. Use a donut cutter (or two round cutters — one large, one small) to cut out donuts and holes.
4. Place them on parchment-lined trays, cover loosely, and let rise again for 30 minutes.

Step 5: Fry the Donuts

1. Heat oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Gently slide in 2–3 donuts at a time — don’t overcrowd.
3. Fry for 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown.
4. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Step 6: Make the Sugar Glaze

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy.
2. Adjust consistency: add more milk for thinner glaze or more sugar for thicker glaze.

Step 7: Glaze the Donuts

1. While donuts are still slightly warm, dip the tops into the glaze.
2. Place on a wire rack to allow excess glaze to drip off.
3. Let the glaze set for about 10 minutes before serving.

How to Serve

Serve these Classic Donuts with Sugar Glaze warm and fresh for the best texture and flavor. They pair beautifully with:

• A cup of hot coffee or cappuccino
• Hot chocolate for a cozy breakfast treat
• A drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra indulgence

For gatherings, arrange them on a tray with sprinkles or toppings for a colorful presentation.

Recipe Tips

• Oil temperature matters: Keep the oil between 350°F–365°F (175°C–185°C). Too low = greasy donuts, too high = burnt outsides.
• Don’t over-knead: Overworking the dough can make it dense.
• Use fresh yeast: Old or inactive yeast will prevent proper rising.
• Glaze while warm: Warm donuts absorb the glaze better.
• For a baked version: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes — the texture will be more cake-like.

Variations

1. Chocolate Glazed Donuts: Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder to the glaze and a splash of espresso for deeper flavor.
2. Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: Skip the glaze and toss warm donuts in a mix of cinnamon and sugar.
3. Filled Donuts: Skip the hole, fry the donut whole, and fill with jam, custard, or Nutella using a piping bag.
4. Maple Glazed Donuts: Replace milk with maple syrup in the glaze for a rich, autumnal twist.
5. Baked Donuts (Healthier): Use a donut pan and bake instead of frying for a lighter version.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Up to 4 days, though the texture softens slightly.
• Freezing (Unglazed): Freeze cooled donuts in airtight bags for up to 2 months. Thaw and warm before glazing.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 8–10 seconds or in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.

Special Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Donut cutter (or round cookie cutters)
• Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
• Slotted spoon
• Kitchen thermometer (for oil temperature)
• Wire rack for cooling and glazing

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Can I bake these donuts instead of frying?
Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–12 minutes until golden. The texture will be more cake-like than airy.

Q2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes — prepare the dough, refrigerate overnight, and bring to room temperature before rolling and frying.

Q3. What’s the best oil for frying donuts?
Neutral oils like canola or vegetable oil are best because they have a high smoke point and mild flavor.

Q4. Why are my donuts oily?
Your oil might be too cool. Make sure it stays at 350°F (175°C) during frying.

Q5. Can I make a vegan version?
Yes! Replace eggs with flax eggs, butter with vegan butter, and milk with almond or oat milk.

Conclusion

Classic Donuts with Sugar Glaze are the perfect balance of nostalgic comfort and homemade indulgence. Each bite delivers that delightful mix of crisp, golden exterior and soft, airy interior, all coated in a simple yet irresistible sugar glaze.

This recipe brings back the magic of the bakery — right in your kitchen. Whether you’re making them for a weekend treat, a family brunch, or just because you deserve something sweet, these donuts never disappoint.

Once you try these, you’ll never go back to store-bought again. Simple ingredients, a touch of patience, and a lot of love — that’s all it takes to create these golden, glazed beauties.