Easy Homemade Strawberry Glazed Donuts for Your Next Brunch

Spring is finally here and the garden is waking up. There is nothing like the smell of fresh berries in the kitchen. These strawberry glazed donuts are a total treat for your family. They are light, airy, and perfectly sweet.

You can make bakery-quality treats right at home today. This recipe is simple enough for any beginner cook. Your kitchen will smell like a dream while they fry. Let’s get started on something delicious together. These are perfect for a bright spring morning.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Making donuts at home feels like a special magic trick. Your kids will be amazed when the dough doubles in size. This recipe uses real strawberry reduction for the glaze. It tastes much better than store-bought versions. It is the perfect project for a lazy Sunday morning.

You will love how soft and pillowy these turn out. They are a wonderful way to celebrate a spring birthday. Plus, you know exactly what ingredients are going inside. These are kid-approved and parent-loved treats. You might never buy store-bought donuts again.

How It Comes Together

Don’t be afraid of working with yeast today. It just needs a little warmth and some time. The dough is very soft and forgiving to handle. We use a simple stand mixer to do the hard work. The frying happens very fast in a heavy pot. You will feel like a professional pastry chef in no time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Most of these items are already in your pantry. We use fresh berries for the best seasonal flavor.

• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 quart vegetable oil for frying
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and pureed
• 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Directions

1. In a stand mixer bowl, combine warm milk and 1 tablespoon of sugar.
2. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
3. Add the remaining sugar, eggs, melted butter, and salt; mix until combined.
4. Switch to the dough hook and gradually add flour while kneading.
5. Knead on medium-low for 7 minutes until the dough is smooth.
6. Transfer dough to a greased bowl and cover with plastic wrap.
7. Let rise in a warm area for 90 minutes until doubled.
8. Punch down the dough and roll out to 1/2-inch thickness.
9. Cut into rounds using a 3-inch donut cutter.
10. Place on parchment and let rise for 45 more minutes.
11. Heat vegetable oil in a heavy pot to 350°F (175°C).
12. Fry donuts in batches for 90 seconds per side until golden.
13. Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly.
14. Whisk strawberry puree, powdered sugar, and vanilla for the glaze.
15. Dip the warm tops into the glaze and let them set.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve these donuts while they are still slightly warm. The glaze should be just set and shiny. Pair them with a cold glass of milk for the kids. A hot cup of coffee is perfect for the adults. They look beautiful on a white serving platter. Set the table and enjoy a slow morning together.

How to Store Leftovers

Donuts are always best on the day you make them. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft for about 24 hours. You can reheat one for 5 seconds in the microwave. This makes them feel fresh and soft again. I do not recommend freezing the glazed donuts.

Tips for Best Results

• Always check that your yeast is fresh and foamy.
• Do not rush the rising time for the fluffiest texture.
• Use a thermometer to keep the oil at 350°F.
• Sift your powdered sugar to avoid a lumpy glaze.
• Don’t crowd the pot while frying the donuts.
• Use fresh spring strawberries for the brightest color.
• Dip the donuts while they are still warm for better sticking.

Ways to Switch It Up

• Add a little lemon zest to the dough for brightness.
• Try using raspberries instead of strawberries for a tarter glaze.
• Top with rainbow sprinkles for a fun kid-friendly look.
• Use a dairy-free milk if you need a lactose-free dough.

Common Questions

Can I bake these instead of frying?

You can bake them at 350°F for about 12 minutes. The texture will be more like a soft bread. Frying gives them that classic golden donut crunch.

What if I don’t have a donut cutter?

You can use a wide drinking glass for the circle. Use a small soda bottle cap for the center hole. It works perfectly every single time.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen berries for the glaze. Just make sure to thaw and drain them first. The glaze might be slightly thinner but still delicious.

I hope these bring a little sunshine to your kitchen today. There is nothing like a homemade donut shared with family. Enjoy every sweet, sticky bite together.

— Lidia

Strawberry Glazed Donuts

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs 45 minutes mins

Servings 12 servings

Calories 315 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs , room temperature
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 3 1/4 cups all -purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 quart vegetable oil for frying
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and pureed
• 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

 

• In a stand mixer bowl, combine warm milk and 1 tablespoon of sugar; sprinkle yeast over the top and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
• Add the remaining sugar, eggs, melted butter, and salt; mix with the paddle attachment until combined.
• Switch to the dough hook and gradually add flour, kneading on medium-low speed for 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and pulls away from the sides.
• Transfer dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm, draft-free area for 90 minutes or until doubled in size.
• Punch down the dough and roll out on a floured surface to 1/2-inch thickness.
• Cut into rounds using a 3-inch donut cutter and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Cover and let the cut donuts rise for an additional 30 to 45 minutes.
• Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Carefully fry donuts in batches for 60 to 90 seconds per side until golden brown, then transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly.
• Prepare the glaze by whisking strawberry puree, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a shallow bowl until smooth.
• Dip the tops of the warm donuts into the glaze and allow them to set on the rack for 10 minutes before serving.