Hey there, fellow baking enthusiast! If you’re anything like me, you understand that there’s something magical about transforming simple ingredients into a treat that brings joy. Today, we’re diving into the world of Glazed Sourdough Donuts. These soft, pillowy delights, featuring a sweet glaze that will make your heart skip a beat, are not just any donuts; they are a beautiful blend of tangy sourdough and sweetness that will leave your family and friends begging for more. So, grab your apron, put on your favorite playlist, and let’s get those flour-covered hands ready for baking bliss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes these glazed sourdough donuts special? Let me tell you! First, they combine the traditional techniques of sourdough baking with the joyous experience of making donuts. This recipe captures the essence of both worlds, crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside. The tang of the sourdough adds a depth of flavor that standard donuts simply can’t match.

Additionally, there’s something incredibly fulfilling about using your sourdough starter; it’s like nurturing a little pet in your kitchen. The added bonus? A deliciously sweet glaze that transforms these donuts from delightful breakfast treats to indulgent desserts.

When you share these donuts with your loved ones, you’re not just giving them a sweet treat; you’re sharing a piece of your heart and a bit of your story.

Fluffy glazed sourdough donuts in white plate

Step-by-Step: Making Glazed Sourdough Donuts

Ready to roll up your sleeves? Let’s break down how to make these delightful treats!

Ingredients

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
1 tsp salt (4g)
2 1/4 cups organic bread flour (290g)
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup whole milk (for glaze)
1-3 cups coconut oil for frying

Directions

Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine your sourdough starter, whole milk, egg, raw cane sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until well incorporated.
Strengthen the Dough: Gradually add the organic bread flour, one cup at a time, mixing until you achieve a smooth, slightly sticky dough.
Bulk Rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and let the dough rise at room temperature until it has doubled in size. This usually takes about 1-2 hours.
Roll and Cut: Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a donut cutter to cut out your donuts, placing them on parchment paper.
Second Rise: Let your shaped donuts rise for another 30-45 minutes. They should puff up nicely!
Instructions for Baked Sourdough Donuts: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place your donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown.

Instructions for Fried Sourdough Donuts: In a deep skillet or pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the donuts in batches for about 1 minute on each side, or until golden. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Glaze: To make the glaze, mix the powdered sugar with 1/4 cup of whole milk until smooth. Dip the warm donuts into the glaze, allowing the excess to drip off.

Best Ways to Serve Glazed Sourdough Donuts

Now that you’ve created these delectable donuts, how can you serve them? The options are endless! Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast experience. Drizzle some extra glaze over the top and sprinkle with colorful sprinkles if you’re feeling festive.

You might consider serving them on a charming platter at parties or gatherings; they’re great for sharing! You can even cut them in half and stuff them with whipped cream or your favorite fruit preserves for a fun twist. Oh, and don’t forget to enjoy them fresh out of the fryer while they’re still warm! Trust me, they’re best enjoyed the day you make them.

Storage Tips for Glazed Sourdough Donuts

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (which is rare!), you’ll want to store them properly. Place the cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature. They’re best consumed within two days for maximum freshness.

If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just place them flat in a freezer-safe container, and they can last up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw at room temperature, then glaze them again if necessary.

Expert Tips for Perfect Glazed Sourdough Donuts

Want to take your donut-making skills to the next level? Here are some pro tips:

Use a Digital Scale: Baking is all about precision. Measuring your ingredients by weight will help ensure consistency in your dough.
Temperature Matters: Make sure your milk is at room temperature to help activate the yeast properly.
Don’t Skip the Double Rise: This step allows the dough to develop better flavor and texture.
Experiment with Glazes: While the classic glaze is fantastic, try adding spices or citrus zest to customize your glaze.
Fry Smart: Maintain the oil temperature to avoid greasy or undercooked donuts. Use a thermometer for accuracy.

Delicious Variations of Glazed Sourdough Donuts

Once you’ve mastered the classic glazed version, why not try some fun variations? Here are a few ideas to get your creativity flowing:

Chocolate Glazed: Replace part of the powdered sugar with cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist!
Maple Glaze: Add maple syrup to the glaze for a sweet fall-inspired treat.
Cinnamon Sugar: Instead of glazing, toss your warm donuts in a mix of cinnamon and sugar for a delightfully sweet exterior.
Filled Donuts: Inject them with jam, custard, or your favorite filling for a sweet surprise inside.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes! You can experiment with different flours, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor might change. Bread flour is preferred for the best texture.

Can I make these donuts ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and rising.

What if I don’t have a donut cutter?

If you don’t have a donut cutter, don’t worry! You can use two round cookie cutters of different sizes or even a glass to cut out your donuts.

And there you have it, your guide to making fabulous glazed sourdough donuts! I hope you enjoy this delightful baking journey and find the same joy in creating these beautiful treats as I do. Remember, baking is all about love, so let your heart shine through each doughnut you make! Happy baking, my friend!