Description
This homemade Maple Donut Recipe creates soft, fluffy donuts coated in a rich maple glaze that’s perfectly sweet with warm caramel undertones. Whether baked or fried, these donuts taste like your favorite bakery treat — ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy weekend indulgence.
Ingredients
-
- For the Donuts:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Oil, for frying (or cooking spray for baking)
- For the Maple Glaze:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon maple extract (or 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, melted butter, remaining sugar, and vanilla extract. Add the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
- Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead for 5–7 minutes (by hand or mixer) until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to 1/2-inch thickness. Cut out donuts using a 3-inch cutter (and a smaller cutter for the holes).
- Place donuts on parchment paper, cover, and let rise again for 30 minutes.
- To Fry: Heat oil in a large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry donuts 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- To Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place donuts on a baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- For the Maple Glaze: In a saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar over medium heat until dissolved. Stir in milk and maple extract, bring to a gentle simmer, then remove from heat. Whisk in powdered sugar until smooth and thick.
- Dip warm donuts into the maple glaze, letting excess drip off. Set on a wire rack to allow glaze to set before serving.
Notes
- Use pure maple extract for a stronger maple flavor, or real maple syrup for a natural sweetness.
- For extra indulgence, sprinkle crumbled bacon over the glazed donuts.
- Donuts taste best fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the microwave for 8–10 seconds for that fresh-baked feel.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Breakfast / Dessert
- Method: Frying or Baking
- Cuisine: American