Maple Donut Recipe – A Sweet Treat with Irresistible Glaze

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Maple donuts are a bakery-style indulgence that you can easily prepare at home. These soft, fluffy donuts are fried (or baked, if preferred) to golden perfection and finished with a luscious maple glaze that makes every bite irresistible. They strike the perfect balance between rich, yeasted dough and the sweet, earthy flavor of maple syrup in the glaze. This recipe is perfect for those who love a classic donut with a unique twist. Not only are they a delightful breakfast or dessert option, but they also make an impressive treat for special occasions, gatherings, or even weekend family breakfasts. With the comforting aroma of maple and the tender bite of homemade donuts, this recipe delivers a nostalgic taste that rivals your favorite donut shop. Once you try them fresh from the kitchen, store-bought versions will never quite measure up.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-Purpose Flour
The backbone of the donut dough, flour provides structure while keeping the texture light and fluffy.

Active Dry Yeast
This leavening agent helps the dough rise, ensuring the donuts are airy and soft on the inside.

Whole Milk
Warm milk activates the yeast and adds richness, creating a tender crumb.

Granulated Sugar
A touch of sugar sweetens the dough and feeds the yeast, aiding in fermentation.

Butter
Butter enriches the dough with flavor and moisture, making it soft and indulgent.

Eggs
Eggs provide structure, richness, and stability to the donut dough.

Salt
Salt balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the donuts.

Vegetable Oil
Essential for frying, vegetable oil ensures the donuts cook evenly to a golden-brown finish.

Powdered Sugar
Used for the glaze, powdered sugar creates a smooth and creamy texture when mixed with liquid.

Maple Syrup
Pure maple syrup adds natural sweetness and depth of flavor, giving the glaze its signature taste.

Vanilla Extract
A splash of vanilla rounds out the glaze, enhancing the maple flavor beautifully.

Directions

Warm the milk gently until it reaches about 110°F (43°C). In a small bowl, combine the yeast, warm milk, and a pinch of sugar, letting it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add in eggs, melted butter, and the activated yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size. Once risen, roll the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ½-inch thickness and cut out donuts with a round cutter. Arrange on a tray, cover, and let them rise again for 30 minutes. Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a large pot. Fry donuts in batches for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown, then drain on paper towels. For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar, maple syrup, a little milk, and vanilla until smooth. Dip warm donuts into the glaze and let set before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 12 donuts. Preparation and rising take roughly 2 hours, while frying and glazing require about 20 minutes, making the total time approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to 4 days, though the texture may firm slightly. Reheat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes. Avoid refrigerating glazed donuts if possible, as condensation can affect the glaze.

Variations and Customizations

Baked Maple Donuts
Instead of frying, bake the donuts at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes for a lighter version.

Maple Bacon Donuts
Top the maple glaze with crispy bacon pieces for a sweet-and-savory twist.

Spiced Maple Donuts
Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.

Maple Cream Filling
Pipe maple-flavored pastry cream into the donuts for a decadent filled version.

Gluten-Free Version
Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.

Mini Donuts
Cut smaller rounds to make bite-sized treats perfect for parties or gatherings.

Double Maple Glaze
Add an extra drizzle of pure maple syrup on top of the glaze for a stronger maple flavor.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, instant yeast can be used directly with the dry ingredients without proofing.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise, then roll and cut the next day.

Do I need a donut cutter?

No, you can use two round cutters or even a glass and bottle cap to cut out the shapes.

Can I air fry these donuts?

Yes, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 6–8 minutes, though the texture will be slightly different.

Can I substitute pancake syrup for maple syrup?

It is not recommended, as pure maple syrup gives the best flavor and consistency.

How do I prevent oily donuts?

Ensure the oil stays at 350°F; too low will make the donuts greasy.

Can I freeze maple donuts?

Yes, freeze unglazed donuts for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.set.

Conclusion

Maple donuts bring together the light, airy texture of freshly made donuts with the sweet, earthy flavor of maple glaze. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or special occasions, they are a treat that feels both nostalgic and indulgent. The recipe offers flexibility—whether you fry, bake, or customize with creative toppings like bacon or cream filling. With simple ingredients and clear steps, you can easily recreate bakery-quality donuts in your own kitchen. Once you taste these maple-glazed delights fresh from the fryer, they are sure to become a family favorite and a go-to recipe for years to come.