There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly fried doughnuts wafting through the house. When I make these Classic Dozen Glazed Doughnuts, it feels like a cozy hug on a Sunday morning. Each pillowy ring, covered in a glossy vanilla glaze, brings back memories of childhood treats and lazy brunches, transforming any day into a special occasion. This recipe is not only simple enough for novice bakers but also budget-friendly, making it a perfect choice for those moments when you want to indulge without breaking the bank. Plus, you can easily tweak it for gluten-free friends or add creative toppings to suit your taste! With your kitchen becoming a haven of warmth and sweetness, wouldn’t it be delightful to surprise your family and friends with a batch of these delectable doughnuts?

Why Are These Doughnuts So Irresistible?

Homemade Bliss: There’s nothing quite like the joy of making these Classic Dozen Glazed Doughnuts from scratch. The aroma alone will have everyone flocking to the kitchen!

Fluffy Perfection: With a light and airy texture that rivals your favorite bakery, each doughnut melts in your mouth for a delightful experience.

Versatile Treat: You can easily adapt this recipe for gluten-free options or get creative with fillings and toppings; the possibilities are endless!

Quick & Budget-Friendly: This recipe is perfect for those who want delicious home-cooked meals without spending hours in the kitchen or breaking the bank.

Memorable Moments: Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a weekday surprise, these doughnuts are sure to become a cherished favorite that brings the family together.

Classic Dozen Glazed Doughnuts Ingredients

For the Doughnuts

All-Purpose Flour – The base for fluffy texture; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough for that perfect balance; consider using coconut sugar for a lower glycemic choice.
Active Dry Yeast – Creates that airy quality we love; instant yeast can be swapped in for a quicker rise.
Whole Milk – Adds richness to the dough; almond or oat milk works wonderfully for a dairy-free delight.
Unsalted Butter – Rich butter enhances flavor; for a dairy-free version, use margarine or coconut oil.
Eggs – Provide moisture and help bind the ingredients; a flax egg can serve as a vegan alternative if needed.
Vanilla Extract – Infuses lovely flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best results.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the glaze, giving it that signature shine; blend granulated sugar to make your own powdered version.
Milk – Used to achieve desired glaze consistency; adjust the amount to make it thicker or thinner as you prefer.

Add a sprinkle of joy to your mornings with these Classic Dozen Glazed Doughnuts, a treat that’s sure to brighten everyone’s day!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Dozen Glazed Doughnuts

Step 1: Dough Preparation
In a stand mixer, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, active dry yeast, and whole milk until just mixed. Then, add the melted unsalted butter and eggs, mixing thoroughly. With a dough hook, knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Once kneaded, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm area until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Step 2: Shaping Doughnuts
After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release air. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/2 inch. Using a doughnut cutter, cut out the doughnuts and carefully place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow the shaped doughnuts to rise again until puffy, approximately 30 minutes, ensuring they have ample space to expand.

Step 3: Frying
In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C), using a deep-fry thermometer for accuracy. Carefully lower the risen doughnuts into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook each doughnut for about 2-3 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and fry for another 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a cooling rack lined with paper towels.

Step 4: Glazing
While the doughnuts are still warm, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar with vanilla extract and enough milk to achieve your desired consistency. Dip each doughnut into the glaze until fully coated, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the glazed doughnuts back on the cooling rack, letting the glaze set as you repeat the process for the remaining doughnuts.

Helpful Tricks for Classic Dozen Glazed Doughnuts

Temperature Matters: Use a deep-fry thermometer to maintain the oil at 350°F. If it’s too hot or cold, your doughnuts might burn or be oily.
Proper Rising: Ensure the dough rises in a warm, draft-free spot. This helps achieve that fluffy texture in your Classic Dozen Glazed Doughnuts.
Avoid Overcrowding: Fry only a few doughnuts at a time. Overcrowding the pot can drop the oil temperature, resulting in soggy doughnuts.
Perfect Glaze: Dip the warm doughnuts in glaze right after frying for the best adhesion. Let excess glaze drip off before placing them on the rack.
Storage Wisdom: These doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Warm them slightly before serving for a delightful experience.

Storage Tips for Classic Dozen Glazed Doughnuts

Room Temperature: Store your doughnuts in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness and avoid staleness.

Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, you can refrigerate the doughnuts for up to 5 days in an airtight container, although they may lose some fluffiness.

Freezer: For extended storage, freeze glazed doughnuts by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to an airtight bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To revive your Classic Dozen Glazed Doughnuts, reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes until just heated through.

Classic Dozen Glazed Doughnuts Variations

Feel free to explore exciting twists and turns to customize your Classic Dozen Glazed Doughnuts, allowing your creativity to shine!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for everyone’s enjoyment. You’ll still achieve that delightful lightness—it’s amazing how versatile these doughnuts can be!
Dairy-Free: Swap whole milk with almond or oat milk and replace unsalted butter with coconut oil. The taste remains scrumptious, and you won’t miss the dairy that typically defines classic recipes.
Lower Glycemic: Use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a healthier sweetness that complements the dough in a delightful way. It brings a rich taste and a touch of caramel flavor.
Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the glazed doughnuts for an indulgent upgrade. The rich chocolate paired with the sweet glaze will make each bite an adventure!
Citrus Zing: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a refreshing burst of flavor. This adds brightness, transforming your doughnuts into a delightful morning treat that invigorates the senses.
Maple Delight: Instead of vanilla extract, consider using pure maple extract in the glaze. This creates a warm, earthy sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the doughnut’s fluffy goodness.
Filled Joy: Create filled doughnuts by injecting them with your favorite jam or custard after glazing. Go wild with flavors like raspberry or chocolate for a fun surprise in every bite.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, spiced flavor profile. It’s a cozy touch that turns these classic treats into a spirited delight, perfect for chilly mornings or festive gatherings.

Feel inspired to mix things up with these variations, and don’t hesitate to share your unique creations. You never know—your take on these Classic Dozen Glazed Doughnuts might just become a family favorite! For even more inspiration, check out our delightful Doughnut Filling Ideas or explore other fun Toppings and Glazes to elevate your baking experience!

What to Serve with Classic Dozen Glazed Doughnuts?

There’s nothing quite like enjoying these warm, sweet rings alongside delightful pairings that elevate your experience.

Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits balance the sweetness of the doughnuts, adding a refreshing crunch to your bite. Try mixing berries, melons, and citrus for a colorful treat.
Rich Coffee: A cup of robust coffee complements the doughnuts perfectly, enhancing their sugary flavors. Consider a flavored brew like hazelnut or vanilla for a special touch.
Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and fresh fruit, a yogurt parfait brings creaminess and crunch, providing a wholesome contrast to the soft doughnut texture.
Chocolate Milkshake: Indulge your sweet tooth further with a thick chocolate milkshake. It’s the ultimate dessert pairing that takes you back to childhood!
Maple Syrup Drizzle: For an extra dose of sweetness, drizzle warm maple syrup over your doughnuts for a delectable twist that pairs beautifully with their fluffy texture.
Sparkling Lemonade: Refreshing and zesty, a glass of sparkling lemonade cuts through the richness of the doughnuts, making every bite feel light and cheerful.
Savory Breakfast Burrito: If you’re craving something savory with your sweets, a hearty breakfast burrito filled with eggs and cheese provides a satisfying contrast to the sugary doughnuts.
Ice Cream Sundae: Treat yourself by turning doughnuts into an unforgettable sundae! Stack slices of doughnut with scoops of ice cream and toppings for a delightful dessert.

Whatever you choose, these combinations will ensure your doughnut experience is anything but ordinary!

Make Ahead Options

These Classic Dozen Glazed Doughnuts are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance—just follow the dough preparation steps, then cover and refrigerate the dough overnight. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let the dough come to room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before rolling it out and shaping the doughnuts. Additionally, you can cut and shape the doughnuts up to 3 days in advance; just place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover lightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. To maintain quality, ensure that the doughnuts are not overcrowded, allowing for easy expansion while they rise. This way, you’ll have fresh, homemade doughnuts ready with minimal effort on busy mornings!

Classic Dozen Glazed Doughnuts Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ingredients for my doughnuts?
Absolutely! When choosing flour, look for a high-protein all-purpose flour for the best structure. If opting for gluten-free options, make sure to use a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum for better texture. For yeast, fresh is always preferable, but if you’re using active dry yeast, ensure it’s not expired for optimal rising. Using fresh, high-quality vanilla extract will elevate the glaze!

What are the best storage methods for my doughnuts?
Very! After making your Classic Dozen Glazed Doughnuts, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you refrigerate them, they can last about 5 days, though they may lose their fluffy texture. If you don’t plan to eat them within a couple of days, freezing is a great option to preserve their freshness.

Can I freeze my glazed doughnuts? How?
Absolutely! To freeze your Classic Dozen Glazed Doughnuts, first, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Then, transfer the doughnuts to an airtight freezer bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.

What should I do if my doughnuts turn out too greasy?
Very! If your doughnuts are greasy, it’s likely that the oil temperature was too low when frying. Make sure you preheat your oil to 350°F before adding the doughnuts; a deep-fry thermometer is key for maintaining consistent temperature. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which can drop the oil temperature, creating soggy doughnuts.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! The Classic Dozen Glazed Doughnuts contain gluten, dairy, and eggs. For gluten-free adaptations, use a gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free versions, substitute both milk and butter with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and coconut oil. If you need plant-based options, you can replace the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit until thickened).

What can I do if my doughnut dough doesn’t rise?
Oh no! If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to inactive yeast or not enough warmth. Make sure that you are using fresh yeast, and let your dough rise in a warm, draft-free area—like inside the oven with just the light on—to encourage fermentation. If it doesn’t rise within the hour, it’s best to start again with fresh yeast.