Glazed Sourdough Donuts Recipe: 5 Simple Steps to Bliss

Name: Glazed Sourdough Donuts Recipe: 5 Simple Steps to Bliss
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups sourdough starter; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/4 cup butter, melted; 2 eggs; 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon active dry yeast; Oil for frying; 2 cups powdered sugar for glaze; 4 tablespoons milk for glaze; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for glaze

September 14, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s something absolutely magical about making donuts at home, don’t you think? The aroma wafting through the kitchen as they fry is pure bliss! When I first discovered the idea of using sourdough starter for donuts, I was beyond intrigued. I mean, who knew that my bubbling starter could lead to such deliciousness? The first time I tried this recipe, I was a bit nervous, but the moment I took my first bite of that warm, glazed goodness, I was sold! The slight tang from the sourdough just elevates the flavor to a whole new level. Trust me, once you try these glazed sourdough donuts, you won’t be able to look at store-bought donuts the same way again. They’re fluffy, sweet, and oh-so-satisfying! Get ready to impress yourself and everyone around you!

glazed sourdough donuts recipe - detail 1

Ingredients for Glazed Sourdough Donuts Recipe

Gathering the right ingredients is the key to success in this delicious glazed sourdough donuts recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups sourdough starter: Make sure it’s active and bubbly for the best results!
1/2 cup milk: Use whole milk for richness, but feel free to substitute with your favorite milk if you prefer.
1/4 cup sugar: This adds sweetness to the dough; you can adjust to your taste.
1/4 cup butter, melted: Unsalted is best, as it lets you control the saltiness of the dough.
2 large eggs: They help bind everything together and give the donuts a lovely texture.
4 cups all-purpose flour: Spoon and level it when measuring to avoid dense donuts.
1 teaspoon salt: This enhances the overall flavor; don’t skip it!
1 tablespoon active dry yeast: Gives the donuts that perfect rise and fluffiness.
Oil for frying: Vegetable or canola oil works great; make sure it’s deep enough for frying.
2 cups powdered sugar for glaze: This will give you that sweet, shiny finish!
4 tablespoons milk for glaze: Adjust the amount to achieve your desired glaze consistency.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract for glaze: Trust me, it adds a lovely flavor that pairs perfectly with the donuts!

How to Prepare Glazed Sourdough Donuts

Now that you have your ingredients lined up, let’s dive into the preparation process! I promise, it’s simpler than it might seem, and the end result is totally worth it. Let’s get those donuts frying!

Preparing the Dough

First things first, we need to mix our wet and dry ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter, milk, sugar, melted butter, and eggs. Give it a good stir until everything is well blended—don’t be afraid to get in there with a whisk or a spoon! In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and yeast. Now, here’s the fun part! Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring until a dough begins to form. It might seem a bit sticky at first, but keep mixing until it starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl. Once you’ve got a cohesive dough, transfer it to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes. You’re looking for a smooth and elastic texture—this is key to those fluffy donuts!

Rising the Dough

Once your dough is beautifully kneaded, it’s time for a little rest! Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. You’ll know it’s ready when you gently poke it, and the dough springs back a bit. Just imagine the fluffy donuts that are about to come from this magic moment!

Shaping and Frying the Donuts

Alright, the dough has risen, and it’s time to bring these donuts to life! Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and roll it out to about 1/2 inch thick. Now comes the fun part—grab a donut cutter or two round cookie cutters (one larger and one smaller) to cut out your donut shapes. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; they’ll still taste amazing! Once you’ve cut them out, place them on a floured baking sheet, cover them again, and let them rest for about 30 minutes. While they’re resting, heat up your oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 350°F (175°C). Careful, it splatters, so keep an eye on it! Fry the donuts in batches, about 2-3 minutes per side, until they’re golden brown. They’ll puff up beautifully—oh, the anticipation!

Making the Glaze

Now, while the donuts are draining on paper towels, let’s whip up that luscious glaze! In a medium bowl, combine the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and has a pourable consistency. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk; too thin? Just add a bit more powdered sugar. Once your donuts have cooled slightly, dip the tops into the glaze, letting the excess drip off. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before digging in. Trust me, you’ll want to enjoy them warm for the ultimate treat!

Tips for Success with Glazed Sourdough Donuts Recipe

Now that you’re ready to make these delicious glazed sourdough donuts, here are some of my top tips for ensuring everything goes smoothly. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will help you avoid any common pitfalls and make your donut experience even more enjoyable!

Use an active sourdough starter: Make sure your starter is bubbly and has been fed recently. This will give your donuts that lovely rise and flavor.
Don’t skip the kneading: Kneading your dough is crucial for developing the gluten that gives your donuts that perfect fluffy texture. If it feels too sticky, don’t hesitate to add a sprinkle of flour while kneading.
Temperature matters: Keep an eye on the oil temperature while frying. If it’s too hot, your donuts will cook too quickly and burn; too cool, and they’ll absorb too much oil. A thermometer is your best friend here!
Resting is key: Allowing the shaped donuts to rest before frying helps them puff up beautifully. Don’t rush this step; it makes a big difference!
Glazing tips: Dip the donuts into the glaze while they’re still warm for better adhesion. If you want a thicker glaze, let the first layer set, then dip again!
Store properly: If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They’re best enjoyed within a couple of days!

With these tips in mind, you’re all set to make the most amazing glazed sourdough donuts. Happy frying, and get ready for some serious deliciousness!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying these delightful glazed sourdough donuts, it’s always good to know what you’re indulging in! Below are the typical nutritional values per serving (which is one donut). Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on standard ingredients and can vary slightly depending on specific brands or quantities used.

Calories: 250
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 12g
Protein: 3g

So, there you have it! A little treat that packs a punch, perfect for satisfying that sweet tooth. Enjoy these donuts in moderation, and savor every delicious bite!

FAQ About Glazed Sourdough Donuts

Can I use a different type of flour?

Absolutely! While all-purpose flour gives the best results for these donuts, you can experiment with other types. For a heartier flavor, you might try using whole wheat flour. Just keep in mind that it can make the donuts denser, so you may need to adjust the liquid slightly. Gluten-free flour blends can also work, but I recommend looking for one specifically designed for baking to ensure you get that lovely rise. Just remember, the texture might be a bit different, but they’ll still be delicious!

How should I store leftover donuts?

If you happen to have any donuts left (which is quite rare!), the key to keeping them fresh is to store them in an airtight container. This keeps them from drying out and maintains that delightful texture. They’re best enjoyed within a couple of days, but if you need to keep them longer, you can pop them in the fridge. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature or warm them up a bit before indulging again — trust me, they’ll taste even better that way!

Can I make these donuts ahead of time?

You can definitely prep some parts of the recipe ahead of time! If you want to save time on the day you plan to serve them, you can prepare the dough and let it rise, then shape the donuts and place them on a floured baking sheet. Cover them and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to fry them, just let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before frying, so they can puff up a bit. This way, you can enjoy fresh, warm donuts without all the fuss in the morning!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you, there are so many reasons to fall in love with these glazed sourdough donuts! Each bite is a little piece of heaven, and here’s why:

Incredible Flavor: The unique tang from the sourdough starter adds a depth of flavor that sets these donuts apart from anything you’d find in a store.
Fluffy Texture: Thanks to the sourdough and proper kneading, these donuts come out light and airy—just the way a donut should be!
Easy to Make: Don’t let the word “sourdough” intimidate you! This recipe is straightforward, and I promise you’ll feel like a pro in no time.
Perfectly Sweet Glaze: The glaze is simple yet so satisfying, giving a sweet finish that complements the donuts beautifully.
Homemade Goodness: Making your own donuts means you know exactly what goes into them—no preservatives or mystery ingredients here!
Fun to Customize: Feel free to get creative! You can add sprinkles, flavored glazes, or even different toppings to suit your taste.
Great for Sharing: These donuts are perfect for gatherings, brunches, or just as a special treat for yourself and your loved ones!

With all these wonderful reasons, it’s hard to resist whipping up a batch of these glazed sourdough donuts. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!

Serving Suggestions

Pairing these glazed sourdough donuts with the right accompaniments can elevate your treat to a whole new level! Here are some delicious ideas to consider:

Coffee: You can’t go wrong with a hot cup of coffee! The rich flavors of a freshly brewed cup perfectly complement the sweetness of the donuts. Whether you prefer a classic black coffee or a creamy latte, it’s a match made in heaven.
Tea: If coffee isn’t your thing, a nice cup of tea works wonderfully too. Try an Earl Grey or a chai for a fragrant pairing that balances the sweetness of the donuts.
Milk: For a nostalgic touch, serve your donuts with a glass of cold milk. It’s a classic combo that’s always a hit, especially with kids!
Fresh Fruit: Add some fresh fruit on the side—slices of strawberries, blueberries, or even a fruit salad. The natural sweetness and acidity from the fruit can complement the richness of the donuts beautifully.
Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt or a fruity yogurt can provide a nice contrast to the sweet glaze. It also adds a creamy texture that pairs well with the donuts.
Ice Cream: Feeling indulgent? Why not serve your donuts with a scoop of vanilla ice cream? The combination of warm donuts and cold ice cream is absolutely divine!
Maple Syrup: Drizzling a bit of maple syrup over the donuts can add another layer of flavor. It’s especially good if you want to enhance the sweetness without overpowering it.

With these serving suggestions, you can create a delightful treat experience that’ll have everyone coming back for more. Enjoy experimenting with different pairings to find your favorite combo!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

After you’ve whipped up a batch of these heavenly glazed sourdough donuts, you might find yourself with a few leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Here’s how to store them properly to keep that fresh, delicious taste intact:

Storage: Place any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about 1-2 days. If you want to keep them longer, I recommend popping them in the fridge, but just remember, they’re best enjoyed within a couple of days for optimal texture and flavor.
Freezing: If you’ve got a whole stash you can’t finish, don’t fret! You can freeze the donuts. Just wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up.

Now, when it comes to reheating, you’ll want to ensure they stay soft and delightful. Here’s the best method:

Reheating: If you’re reheating a cold donut, the microwave is your best bet! Just microwave it for about 10-15 seconds. This will warm it up nicely without making it tough. If you prefer a little crispness, you can pop them in a toaster oven at a low temperature for a couple of minutes.

With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can savor every last bite of your glazed sourdough donuts just like they were freshly made. Enjoy!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.