The Glazed Donut from Dunkin' Donuts features a soft, fluffy yeast dough coated in a sweet, shiny sugar glaze, delivering a classic and irresistible combination of light texture and sugary sweetness.
Equipments
- Stand mixer (with dough hook)
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Rolling pin
- Doughnut cutter (or round cutters)
- Baking sheet/tray
- Parchment paper
- Clean kitchen towel/plastic wrap
- Deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Cooling rack
- Saucepan (for glaze)
- Whisk
- Thermometer (oil)
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup whole milk (for glaze)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)
Active dry yeast must be fresh and properly activated in warm water (around 110degF) for effective dough rising. Use whole milk and unsalted butter to achieve a rich, tender dough texture that closely mimics the original. Measure flour accurately to avoid too dense or too airy donuts, as this affects the light and fluffy characteristic of the yeast dough. Vegetable oil should be heated to about 350degF for optimal frying that creates a crisp exterior without absorbing excess oil. Your powdered sugar glaze should be smooth and slightly runny to coat the donuts evenly, replicating the sweet, shiny finish found on Dunkin' Donuts' Glazed Donut copycat version.
Instructions
- Proof yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar until foamy (about 5 minutes).
- In a stand mixer bowl, combine sugar, milk, melted butter, salt, and vanilla extract.
- Add egg and proofed yeast mixture; mix until combined.
- Gradually add flour, mixing with dough hook until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
- Knead dough (with mixer or by hand) for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled (about 1–2 hours).
- Transfer risen dough to a lightly floured surface and gently roll to 1/2-inch thickness.
- Cut out doughnuts with a doughnut cutter; re-roll scraps as needed.
- Place cut doughnuts and holes on parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Cover loosely with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap; let rise again until puffy (30–45 minutes).
- Heat vegetable oil in deep fryer or pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry doughnuts in batches (do not overcrowd), about 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Remove with slotted spoon; drain on cooling rack set over paper towels.
- For glaze: Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in saucepan over low heat until smooth and warm.
- Dip warm doughnuts into glaze, allowing excess to drip off.
- Place glazed doughnuts on cooling rack to set glaze before serving.
Substitution
The Glazed Donut from Dunkin' Donuts copycat recipe requires active dry yeast, but instant yeast can be used as a convenient substitute by mixing it directly with the flour, skipping the warm water proofing step. Whole milk adds richness to the dough, though you can replace it with any dairy or non-dairy milk alternatives like almond or oat milk without drastically altering texture. Vegetable oil is preferred for frying due to its high smoke point, but canola or peanut oil are also suitable options. If you lack a doughnut cutter, two different-sized round cutters work well to replicate the classic ring shape. When glazing, if powdered sugar is unavailable, granulated sugar can be ground to a finer powder to achieve a smooth, shiny coating for your donuts.
Tips
Ensure your yeast is fresh and proof it in warm water (around 110degF) with a pinch of sugar for optimal dough rise. Maintain oil temperature at 350degF during frying to achieve golden, evenly cooked donuts without absorbing excess oil. When rolling the dough, keep the surface lightly floured to prevent sticking but avoid adding too much flour to retain dough softness. Your glaze should be warm and smooth for easy dipping, ensuring it coats the donuts evenly and sets with a shiny finish.
Nutritions
The Glazed Donut from Dunkin' Donuts contains approximately 260 calories, with about 12 grams of fat, 34 grams of carbohydrates, and 3 grams of protein per serving. Its yeast-based dough provides moderate energy primarily from refined flour and sugar, while the glaze adds extra sugars contributing to its sweet flavor. Due to its high sugar and fat content, consuming this donut regularly may affect blood sugar levels and overall calorie intake. You should enjoy this treat occasionally within a balanced diet to maintain nutritional health.
Storage
Store your glazed donuts in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their soft, fluffy texture and prevent the sugar glaze from becoming sticky. If you need to keep them longer, wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator for up to three days, though this may slightly affect their freshness. For extended storage, freeze the donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, allowing you to enjoy them within one month by thawing at room temperature before serving.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk in both the dough and glaze for a dairy-free option that maintains moisture and flavor. Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the dough for a subtle spice twist that complements the sweet glaze. For a different cooking process, bake the doughnuts at 375degF (190degC) for 10-12 minutes instead of frying, resulting in a lighter and less oily treat. Using a candy or digital thermometer is crucial to keep the frying oil at 350degF (175degC), ensuring a perfectly golden crust and soft interior.
Allergies
The Glazed Donut from Dunkin' Donuts contains several common allergens such as eggs, milk, and wheat, which can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The presence of unsalted butter and whole milk highlights the need for caution if you have dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. If you have allergies to yeast or gluten, consuming this donut may cause adverse effects, so always check ingredient details carefully before enjoying your treat.
Why this recipe?
Dunkin' Donuts' Glazed Donut menu is beloved for its perfect balance of fluffy texture and sweet, melt-in-your-mouth glaze that creates a satisfying indulgence. The simple yet iconic flavor profile appeals to a wide audience, making it a staple breakfast or snack choice. Recreating this classic at home allows you to customize sweetness and freshness, ensuring every bite meets your personal taste. Your homemade Glazed Donuts can capture the restaurant's signature quality while offering the rewarding experience of baking from scratch.