Indulge in the comforting flavors of fall with these soft, fluffy maple-glazed donuts. Perfectly golden and fried to perfection, these donuts are coated with a luscious maple glaze that adds just the right amount of sweetness and a hint of earthy depth. Whether you’re serving them at a weekend brunch or treating yourself to a cozy afternoon snack with a cup of coffee, these homemade donuts will satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving more. Best of all, they’re surprisingly easy to make and are sure to impress family and friends alike!
Ingredients
For the Donuts:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Maple Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Make the Dough:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Add the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Donuts:
- Punch down the risen dough and roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness on a floured surface.
- Use a donut cutter (or a large round cutter and a smaller one for the center) to cut out donut shapes. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cover and let rise for another 30–40 minutes, until puffy.
- Fry the Donuts:
- Heat 2–3 inches of oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 350°F.
- Fry the donuts in batches, about 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain.
- Make the Maple Glaze:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk or powdered sugar if needed.
- Glaze the Donuts:
- Dip the slightly cooled donuts into the maple glaze, letting the excess drip off. Place them back on the wire rack to set.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy with a hot beverage for the ultimate treat!
