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–+ servings
Old fashioned glazed donuts lined in a glass baking dish with one on top with a bite gone.

How to Make Perfect Old-Fashioned Glazed Donuts

These old-fashioned glazed donuts are soft, fluffy, and airy on the inside with a slightly crisp golden exterior, all coated in a sweet homemade glaze. Made with simple pantry ingredients, this yeast-raised donut recipe is a nostalgic treat that melts in your mouth.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3 minutes
Rise Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 18 minutes
Yield: 12 donuts

Equipment

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • ¾ cup warm water
  • 1½ teaspoon yeast
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 tablespoons butter (softened)
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups + 3 tablespoons all purpose flour

For the Glaze

  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup milk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Activate the Yeast
    In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means your yeast is active and ready to go.
  • Make the Dough
    Add softened butter, salt, and flour. Mix until a dough forms, then knead until smooth and elastic (about 6–8 minutes by hand or 4–5 minutes with a stand mixer and dough hook).
  • First Rise
    Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size (about 1–1 ½ hours).
  • Shape the Donuts
    Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/3 inch thickness. Use a donut cutter (or a large glass and a smaller one for the center) to cut out your donuts. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  • Second Rise
    Cover the shaped donuts with a towel and let them rise again for about 30–40 minutes. They should look puffy and airy. Mix up the glaze, cover, and set to the side to allow the flavors to begin to meld together.
  • Fry the Donuts
    Heat oil to 350°F. Fry donuts in small batches until golden brown on each side (about 1–2 minutes per side). Remove and place on a paper towel-lined tray to drain.
  • Glaze the Donuts
    Dip each warm donut into your glaze ensuring you cover all sides and set on a wire rack to let the glaze set. Allow to rest a few minutes before enjoying!

Notes

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container or ziplock bag. Leave at room temperature and eat within 2 days for the best flavor.

Tips for the Best Donuts

  • Make sure your oil stays around 350°F for even frying. Too hot, and they’ll burn; too cool, and they’ll soak up oil.
  • Don’t skip the second rise, this is what gives you that light, airy inside.
  • Glaze while still slightly warm for the best glossy coating.
  • Enjoy them fresh! Homemade donuts are best the same day.