Glazed Sourdough Donuts: A Comforting Treat for Any Occasion
There’s a certain magic that fills the air when you bite into a warm, freshly glazed donut. The tender, pillowy texture combined with a sweet, sticky glaze creates a moment of pure bliss. I still remember my grandmother’s kitchen, bustling with scents of cinnamon and sugar as she whipped up her beloved donuts. Now, as I recreate those cherished memories, I’m excited to share my own twist on this classic—a delightful recipe for Glazed Sourdough Donuts. These dreamy treats not only celebrate the magic of sourdough but also bring that comforting nostalgia to your own home. This is the ultimate easy weekend project for anyone looking to enjoy a creamy yet slightly tangy treat. You’ll definitely want to pin this for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Heavenly Flavor: The sourdough starter adds an incredible depth of flavor, enriching these donuts with a complex, tangy sweetness.
- Comforting Texture: Light and airy interiors combine with a perfectly crisp exterior, giving you an indulgent treat for cozy days.
- Fun to Make: Enjoy a family kitchen experience mixing and molding dough together—perfect for bonding with loved ones.
- Customizable: From decadent toppings to unique flavors, let your creativity shine with each batch!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a quiet morning treat or a dazzling dessert for gatherings, these glazed donuts fit right in.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Glazed Sourdough Donuts
Gather these simple ingredients to make your dreams of warm, glazed donuts come true:
- 1 cup 100% hydration sourdough starter (250g)
- 1/2 cup whole milk (115g)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup raw cane sugar (55g)
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter (50g)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (3g)
- 1 tsp salt (4g)
- 2 1/4 cups organic bread flour (290g)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1-3 cups coconut oil for frying
Let’s Make It Together
Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine your active sourdough starter, whole milk, egg, raw cane sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and salt. Stir until well combined. Gradually add the bread flour, mixing until a shaggy dough begins to form.
Strengthen the Dough: Once the dough comes together, transfer it to a floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Feel the warmth of the dough—each knead builds character!
Bulk Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 2-3 hours or until it doubles in size. The blissful aroma of rising sourdough will fill your kitchen.
Roll and Cut: Once risen, gently punch down the dough and transfer it back to the floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness and use a donut cutter to shape your donuts. Gather scrapes, re-roll, and cut until all dough is used.
Second Rise: Place your formed donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover with a towel. Let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes until puffy and airy.
Instructions for Fried Sourdough Donuts: In a deep pot, heat coconut oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the donuts in batches, about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Transfer to a cooling rack on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Instructions for Baked Sourdough Donuts: If you prefer a lighter version, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the donuts in a greased donut pan and bake for 10-12 minutes until they spring back when touched.
Glaze: While the donuts cool slightly, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Dip each warm donut into the glaze, letting the excess drip off.
Variations & Creative Twists
- Zesty Lemon Glaze: Add freshly grated lemon zest to your glaze for a bright, refreshing twist that adds a delightful zing.
- Chocolate Dipped: Once glazed, dip half of the donut into rich melted chocolate for an indulgent treat that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Spiced Cinnamon Sugar: Toss your fried donuts in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon for a warm, nostalgic flavor reminiscent of holiday baking.
- Creamy Coconut: Incorporate unsweetened shredded coconut into the glaze for a tropical twist that adds both texture and flavor.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge overnight for an easy morning treat.
- Ingredient Swaps: If you don’t have coconut oil, vegetable oil works well for frying; just keep an eye on the temperature.
- Storing Leftovers: Keep any leftover donuts in an airtight container for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them and glaze them when you’re ready to indulge.
- Perfect Frying: For the ideal fry, use a deep-fry thermometer to maintain consistent temperature—this ensures crispy donuts without greasy excess.
What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown
- Serving Size: 1 donut
- Calories: 270
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sugar: 17g
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 160mg
Reader FAQs About Glazed Sourdough Donuts
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before frying.
Can I use different ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in different types of flour or milk substitutes based on your preference.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any uneaten donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
How long do they last?
These delicious donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can still be savored for up to two days when stored properly.
Wrapping It Up
These Glazed Sourdough Donuts are more than just a recipe; they’re a way to connect with loved ones, share stories, and create warm moments in the kitchen. As you recreate these delightful treats, may they bring you as much joy as they brought to me in my grandmother’s kitchen. Save this Glazed Sourdough Donuts recipe to your cozy treats board so it’s ready when you need that perfect indulgence!
