Donut Glaze

Perry Santanachote
Perry Santanachote
Perry is a food writer, photographer, and recipe developer based in New York City. She cooks every day, and somehow eats even more often. Her recipes have been published in Eating Well, Fine Cooking, Food & Wine, The Kitchn, Thrillist, and Tone It Up. Perry grew up in Denver, Colorado and was raised by two grandmothers who taught her the importance of cooking with all five senses and never adhering to a diet with a name. She has a degree in anthropology and a slightly more practical master’s degree in journalism.
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published Aug 1, 2021
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Donut Glaze

If you're making homemade donuts, this easy, vanilla-speckled glaze is a must.

Makes2 cups

Prep2 minutes

Cook4 minutes to 5 minutes

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a donut with white glaze on a cooling rack, with a whisk in a bowl of glaze in the background
Credit: Perry Santanachote
Donut Glaze

Imagine a cupcake without a glorious heap of frosting — it wouldn’t quite be a full treat, right? The same goes for a donut. Especially for those with a sweet tooth, that layer of sugary goodness is what makes a donut so irresistible. And this glaze recipe, although simple, will do just that. It’s a basic vanilla glaze, but consider it a blank canvas to have fun with flavors. Feel free to use any fruit juice in place of the milk or try coconut milk for a vegan variation.

What’s the Difference Between Icing and Glaze?

Both are typically made with powdered sugar and milk, but a glaze has more liquid and is thinner (think: pourable consistency) than icing. Glazes are usually translucent and poured over cakes and pastries, most notably donuts. Icings are usually spread or brushed on cookies.

Why Is My Donut Glaze Runny?

Donut glaze is supposed to be runny and translucent and apply a thin coating to whatever you’re dipping in it. This will contribute to that toothsome crack when you bite into the donut.

Credit: Perry Santanachote
Donut Glaze

How Long Does a Glaze Take to Set?

Donut glaze sets within minutes at room temperature, which is why we suggest keeping the glaze warm while you’re working.

Comments

Donut Glaze

If you're making homemade donuts, this easy, vanilla-speckled glaze is a must.

Prep time 2 minutes

Cook time 4 minutes to 5 minutes

Makes 2 cups

Nutritional Info

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup

    milk

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons

    light corn syrup

  • 1 teaspoon

    vanilla extract

  • 1/8 teaspoon

    kosher salt

  • 3 1/2 cups

    powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Fill a large bowl with hot water and set aside.

  2. Place 1/2 cup milk, 1 1/2 teaspoons light corn syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt in a medium saucepan and whisk to combine. Heat over low heat until warm, about 4 minutes. Gradually whisk in 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar until smooth and well combined.

  3. Transfer the saucepan to the bowl of hot water—let it float in the water or sit on top—to keep the glaze warm and runny. Dip donuts, one at a time, into the glaze and let excess drip off. Place the donuts glazed-side up on a wire rack. Let sit until the glaze sets, about 5 minutes.

Recipe Notes

Storage: Leftover glaze can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Rewarm before using.

Filed in:
baked goods
Breakfast
dairy
sweets
Gluten-Free
pantry