Glazed Sourdough Donuts – tastykitchenjoy

Looking for a delightful treat that elevates your dessert game? These Glazed Sourdough Donuts are soft, fluffy, and boast a perfect balance of sweetness with a hint of tang. Ideal for family gatherings, brunches, or just a special snack, these donuts can be baked or fried, making them versatile for any occasion. With a simple process and incredible flavor, they might just become your new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Unique Flavor: The combination of sourdough starter adds a distinct tang that sets these donuts apart from traditional recipes.
Versatile Preparation: Enjoy the option to bake or fry, giving you flexibility based on your preference and time constraints.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these donuts even if you’re new to baking.
Perfect for Any Occasion: From breakfast to dessert, these donuts fit seamlessly into any meal or celebration.
Homemade Goodness: Creating these delicious treats at home means you control the ingredients and flavors.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Glazed Sourdough Donuts, gather the necessary tools to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Rolling pin
Donut cutter (or two round cutters)
Baking sheet
Frying pan (if frying)
Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining your ingredients effectively without spills.
Donut cutter: This tool helps shape uniform donuts, ensuring they cook evenly and look professional.
Frying pan: If you choose to fry your donuts, a good-quality frying pan allows for better heat distribution and cooking results.

Ingredients

To make these delectable Glazed Sourdough Donuts, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dough

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 (3g)
1 tsp salt (4g)
2 1/4 cups organic bread flour (290g)

For the Glaze

2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup whole milk

For Frying (if using)

1-3 cups coconut oil

How to Make Glazed Sourdough Donuts

Step 1: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, whole milk, egg, raw cane sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.

Step 2: Strengthen the Dough

Gradually add in the organic bread flour. Stir until a cohesive dough forms. Knead gently on a floured surface until smooth.

Step 3: Bulk Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap or a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size—about 1-2 hours.

Step 4: Roll and Cut

Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about ½ inch thick. Use a donut cutter to shape your donuts.

Step 5: Second Rise

Transfer cut donuts onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them again and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.

Step 6: Instructions for Baked Sourdough Donuts

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the donuts for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Allow cooling on a rack before glazing.

Step 7: Instructions for Fried Sourdough Donuts

Heat coconut oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry each donut for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Step 8: Glaze

In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and whole milk until smooth. Dip cooled donuts into the glaze while still warm for an irresistible finish!

How to Serve Glazed Sourdough Donuts

Serving Glazed Sourdough Donuts can be a delightful experience for everyone. Whether you’re enjoying them at breakfast or serving them as a dessert, these donuts can be paired with various accompaniments to enhance their flavor.

With Fresh Fruits

Berries: Serve your donuts with a side of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
Sliced Bananas: The sweetness of bananas pairs well with the tangy glaze, adding a creamy texture.

With Coffee or Tea

Coffee: A rich cup of coffee complements the sweetness of the donuts and enhances the overall flavor experience.
Herbal Tea: For a lighter option, herbal teas like chamomile or mint can provide a soothing balance.

As a Breakfast Treat

Yogurt Parfait: Layer your donuts with yogurt and granola for a deliciously indulgent breakfast parfait.
Oatmeal Bowl: Crumble some donuts over oatmeal to add sweetness and texture to your morning meal.

How to Perfect Glazed Sourdough Donuts

Perfecting your Glazed Sourdough Donuts takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your sourdough starter is active and bubbly. This will improve the rise and flavor of your donuts.
Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This ensures that your donuts have the right texture.
Watch the Temperature: Keep an eye on the dough during rising; if it’s too warm, it may overproof. Ideal temperatures help develop flavors.
Cut Evenly: Use a sharp knife or donut cutter for even shapes. This helps in uniform cooking and presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Glazed Sourdough Donuts

When serving Glazed Sourdough Donuts, pairing them with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the donuts.
Cream Cheese Spread: A lightly sweetened cream cheese spread provides a rich complement to the glazed surface.
Granola: Crunchy granola offers a delightful texture contrast when served alongside your donuts.
Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy dessert can act as a healthy counterpoint to the heaviness of fried sweets.
Smoothie Bowl: A nutrient-packed smoothie bowl pairs well, providing fruit flavors that enhance each bite of donut.
Savory Breakfast Burrito: Combining savory elements like eggs and vegetables can create an exciting flavor dynamic when served together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Glazed Sourdough Donuts, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your donuts turn out perfectly.

Skipping the Proofing Step: Not allowing your dough to rise properly can lead to dense donuts. Be patient and let your dough bulk rise until it doubles in size.
Using Cold Ingredients: Cold ingredients can hinder the yeast’s activity. Make sure your milk and egg are at room temperature before mixing them into your dough.
Over-Flouring the Dough: Adding too much flour can make your donuts tough. Use just enough flour to keep the dough from sticking while kneading.
Not Monitoring Temperature for Frying: If your oil is too hot, the outside will cook quickly while the inside remains raw. Use a thermometer to maintain an ideal frying temperature of around 350°F (175°C).
Rushing the Glazing Process: Glazing while the donuts are too hot may result in runny glaze. Let them cool slightly before applying the glaze for better adhesion.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store glazed sourdough donuts in an airtight container.
They will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Glazed Sourdough Donuts

Place cooled, unglazed donuts in a freezer-safe container or bag.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Glazed Sourdough Donuts

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the donuts for about 5-10 minutes for a fresh taste.
Microwave: Heat each donut on medium power for about 10-15 seconds, ensuring not to overheat.
Stovetop: Warm on a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Glazed Sourdough Donuts that might help you in your baking journey.

How do I make my Glazed Sourdough Donuts fluffier?

Using fresh sourdough starter and allowing proper proofing times will enhance fluffiness. Ensure not to rush these steps!

Can I bake instead of fry Glazed Sourdough Donuts?

Yes! You can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

What if my dough is too sticky when making Glazed Sourdough Donuts?

If you find your dough sticky, gradually incorporate a bit more flour until it reaches a manageable consistency without overdoing it.

Can I add flavors to my Glazed Sourdough Donuts?

Absolutely! You can mix spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough or add citrus zest for extra flavor.

What is the best way to store leftover Glazed Sourdough Donuts?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Glazed Sourdough Donuts are a delightful treat that combines softness with a unique tang from sourdough. Whether you choose to bake or fry, these donuts offer versatility that allows you to customize flavors and glazes according to your preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy creating delicious memories with family and friends!