These baked yeast donuts are light, fluffy, and a healthier alternative to traditional fried donuts. Made with simple ingredients, they are perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat any time of the day.
The recipe is easy to follow and yields delicious results. You can customize the toppings and glazes to suit your taste.
Creating the Perfect Baked Yeast Donuts
Imagine a warm kitchen filled with the sweet aroma of freshly baked donuts. These baked yeast donuts are a delightful treat that can brighten any morning. The process begins with simple ingredients that come together to create a fluffy, golden brown delight.
To start, activating the yeast is essential. Mixing warm milk, sugar, and yeast allows the yeast to froth, which is a sign that it’s ready to work its magic. This step is crucial for achieving the light texture that makes these donuts so special.
Mixing and Kneading the Dough
Once the yeast is activated, it’s time to combine it with melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. This mixture forms the base of the dough. Gradually adding flour will lead to a soft dough that is easy to handle.
Kneading the dough for about five minutes on a floured surface helps develop the gluten, giving the donuts their structure. After kneading, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot. This first rise is where the magic happens, as the dough doubles in size, creating a light and airy texture.
Shaping the Donuts
After the dough has risen, it’s time to shape the donuts. Rolling out the dough to about half an inch thick allows for easy cutting. Using a donut cutter or two round cutters, you can create perfectly shaped donuts and holes.
Once shaped, the donuts need a second rise. Cover them and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This step is vital for achieving that fluffy texture that makes each bite so enjoyable.
Baking to Perfection
Preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) sets the stage for baking. The donuts should bake for about 10-12 minutes until they are lightly golden. Once out of the oven, they should cool slightly on a wire rack, allowing the steam to escape and keeping them fluffy.
The sight of these golden donuts is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. With a light dusting of powdered sugar, they are ready for the final touch.
Glazing and Topping
Preparing the glaze is a simple yet rewarding process. Mixing powdered sugar with a splash of milk creates a smooth glaze that enhances the donuts’ sweetness. Dipping the tops of the cooled donuts into the glaze allows for an even coating.
For an added burst of color and fun, sprinkle colorful toppings on the glazed donuts. Whether it’s sprinkles or a dusting of cinnamon sugar, these toppings elevate the presentation and add a delightful crunch.
Serving Suggestions
These baked yeast donuts are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual breakfast or a special gathering. Arranging them neatly on a white plate creates an inviting display, especially when paired with a warm cup of coffee.
Each bite offers a fluffy texture and a hint of sweetness, making them a delightful treat any time of day. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as a sweet snack later, these donuts are sure to please everyone at the table.
Delicious Baked Yeast Donuts
This recipe features soft donuts made with yeast, baked to perfection, and topped with a sweet glaze. The preparation and baking time is approximately 1 hour, and it serves about 12 donuts.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
- Sprinkles or cinnamon sugar for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and stir until combined. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Donuts: Punch down the dough and roll it out to about 1/2 inch thick. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters to cut out donuts and holes. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Second Rise: Cover the shaped donuts and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the donuts for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. Let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar with milk until smooth. Dip the tops of the cooled donuts into the glaze and add sprinkles or cinnamon sugar if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 32 minutes
- Servings: 12 donuts
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 23g