Maple Glazed Donuts

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Golden, pillowy-soft, and coated in a rich, buttery maple glaze, these Maple Glazed Donuts are a sweet escape into cozy comfort. With every bite, you get a warm taste of fall – even if you’re enjoying them in the middle of summer. These donuts are baked, not fried, giving you a slightly healthier option without sacrificing that classic donut-shop texture. The glaze is the true star: thick, creamy, and packed with real maple flavor that lingers pleasantly on your tongue.

Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent snack, these donuts feel like a warm hug on a chilly morning. Whether you’re brewing a fresh cup of coffee or serving them at a gathering, they bring instant joy. They’re simple enough for weekday baking but special enough to show off on the weekend.

Why You’ll Love This Maple Glazed Donuts Recipe

• They’re baked, not fried — less mess and healthier.
• The maple glaze is rich and luscious, made with real maple syrup.
• No mixer needed, just a few bowls and basic kitchen tools.
• Perfect balance of fluffy texture and sweet flavor.
• Ready in under 30 minutes!

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get started, you’ll need a few key tools. A donut pan is essential for shaping the donuts and giving them that signature ring. Silicone or non-stick metal pans work well. Mixing bowls will help keep wet and dry ingredients separate until combining. A whisk ensures smooth batter and a lump-free glaze. You’ll also need a spoon or piping bag to neatly fill the donut pan, and a cooling rack for glazing the donuts after baking.

Every tool plays a role: the donut pan gives structure, the whisk aerates the batter for a light crumb, and the rack lets the glaze set beautifully without pooling.

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Preparation Tips

Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature, especially the egg and milk, to ensure even mixing and a smoother batter. Grease your donut pan thoroughly, even if it’s non-stick, to guarantee easy release. When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, stir just until combined—overmixing can make the donuts tough. Let the donuts cool slightly before glazing so the maple glaze doesn’t slide off completely. If you want a thicker glaze layer, double-dip after the first coat has set for a few minutes.

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Ingredients for this Maple Glazed Donuts Recipe

For the Donuts:

• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, but adds depth)
• 1/3 cup (65g) brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk, room temperature
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

For the Maple Glaze:

• 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp (30ml) pure maple syrup
• 1 tbsp (15ml) heavy cream or milk
• Pinch of salt (enhances flavor)

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Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Lightly grease a 6-cavity donut pan with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking.

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Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Ensure everything is well combined and free of lumps.

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Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.

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Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently fold until just combined. Do not overmix; the batter should be slightly thick but smooth.

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Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Spoon the batter into a piping bag or a large zip-top bag with the corner cut off. Pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full.

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Step 6: Bake

Bake the donuts for 10–12 minutes, or until the tops spring back when lightly touched and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

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Step 7: Make the Maple Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, cream (or milk), and a tiny pinch of salt. Adjust consistency if needed by adding more cream or sugar.

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Step 8: Glaze the Donuts

Once the donuts are cool, dip the top of each donut into the glaze. Let any excess drip off, then place them back on the cooling rack. For a thicker glaze, dip again after the first coat sets.

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Notes

These donuts are best enjoyed fresh the day they’re made, but they also keep well for a few days if stored properly. Using real maple syrup (not pancake syrup) makes a big difference in the flavor of the glaze. If you’re looking for more complex flavor, adding a pinch of nutmeg or using browned butter in the batter can elevate the taste.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to tough, dense donuts instead of light and fluffy ones.
• Not greasing the donut pan thoroughly: Even nonstick pans need greasing to ensure easy release.
• Skipping the cooling step before glazing: If the donuts are too warm, the glaze will slide right off.
• Using imitation maple syrup: The glaze won’t have that rich, deep maple flavor.
• Overbaking: A few extra minutes can dry them out quickly. Check early for doneness.

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Storage Instructions

Allow glazed donuts to set completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, but note the texture may slightly firm up. To freeze, do not glaze the donuts. Freeze the baked donuts in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and glaze fresh before serving.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Donut)

• Calories: 210
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugar: 18g
• Protein: 3g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these donuts without a donut pan?

Yes! You can use a muffin tin and form foil rings in the center to mimic the donut shape, or just make donut muffins.

Can I fry this batter instead of baking?

This batter is designed for baking. It’s too thin for frying and won’t hold up in hot oil.

Can I make them dairy-free?

Absolutely. Substitute almond milk or oat milk for dairy milk, and use plant-based butter for the glaze and batter.

How do I make the glaze thicker?

Add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.

Can I add toppings?

Definitely! Crushed nuts, mini chocolate chips, or sprinkles can be added to the glaze before it sets.

How long do they stay fresh?

They’re best on the first day but will stay soft for about 2 days at room temperature.

What if I don’t have maple syrup?

You can substitute honey or agave for a different flavor, but it won’t taste the same as classic maple glaze.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure not to overcrowd the pan and adjust baking time slightly if needed.

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Conclusion

Maple Glazed Donuts are a sweet, easy treat that brings bakery-quality indulgence right into your home kitchen. With simple ingredients and minimal tools, you can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes and enjoy the cozy flavors of maple and vanilla in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a weekend brunch or a weekday pick-me-up, these donuts never disappoint.

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