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Glazed Doughnuts

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Introduction

Glazed Doughnuts are a beloved classic—soft, fluffy rings of dough coated in a shiny, sweet glaze that melts in your mouth. Whether enjoyed warm with coffee or as a special treat, these doughnuts deliver pure comfort and timeless flavor. Their light texture and simple sweetness make them universally adored.

Origin

Doughnuts have roots in European fried dough traditions, later evolving in America during the 19th century. The iconic glazed doughnut became popular with the rise of commercial bakeries, where yeast-raised dough created the airy texture we know today, finished with a simple sugar glaze.

Cultural Significance

Glazed doughnuts are a staple in bakeries, cafés, and home kitchens. Often associated with morning rituals, celebrations, and shared moments, they represent indulgence, joy, and a touch of nostalgia across generations.

Ingredients & Quantity

Dough:

  • 3½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 2¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • ¾ cup warm milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ tsp salt
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Glaze:

  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Additions

  • Chocolate glaze or maple glaze
  • Sprinkles or crushed nuts
  • Cinnamon sugar coating
  • Lemon zest in glaze
  • Filled versions with custard or jam

Tips for Success

  1. Activate yeast properly—milk should be warm, not hot.
  2. Knead until smooth and elastic for fluffy doughnuts.
  3. Let dough rise fully for light texture.
  4. Maintain oil temperature at 350°F (175°C).
  5. Glaze while warm so it sets beautifully.

Instructions

  1. Make dough:
    • Dissolve yeast in warm milk with sugar. Let foam.
    • Mix in eggs, butter, salt, and flour to form dough.
    • Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth.
  3. First rise:
    • Place dough in greased bowl, cover, and rise 1–1½ hours until doubled.
  5. Shape doughnuts:
    • Roll dough to ½-inch thickness. Cut into rings.
  7. Second rise:
    • Let shaped doughnuts rise 30 minutes.
  9. Fry:
    • Fry doughnuts 1–2 minutes per side until golden.
  11. Glaze:
    • Whisk glaze ingredients. Dip warm doughnuts and set on rack.

Description

These Glazed Doughnuts are light, airy, and tender with a delicate crisp exterior. The smooth vanilla glaze coats each doughnut in a thin, glossy layer that adds just the right amount of sweetness.

Nutritional Information (per doughnut, approx.)

  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Protein: 5 g

Conclusion

Glazed Doughnuts are a timeless treat that never disappoints. Homemade versions bring unmatched freshness and flavor, making the effort well worth it.

Recommendation

Enjoy warm the same day they’re made with coffee or milk. For variety, dip half in chocolate glaze or add toppings while glaze is still wet.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

While doughnuts are a treat, making them at home allows control over ingredients and portions. Enjoying one warm, fresh doughnut can be more satisfying than multiple store-bought ones—making indulgence intentional and joyful.

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