Name: Maple Glazed Donuts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/3 cup brown sugar 1 large egg 1/4 cup milk 1/4 cup sour cream 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1/4 cup pure maple syrup 1/2 cup powdered sugar

Golden, fluffy, and soaked in a rich maple glaze, these Maple Glazed Donuts are like a warm hug in edible form. Perfect for cozy weekends, holiday brunches, or a sweet treat to brighten up your weekday morning, these donuts are baked instead of fried, making them easier (and a little lighter) than traditional versions.

The magic is in the maple glaze—a glossy, buttery topping infused with real maple syrup that hardens slightly as it cools, giving each donut a melt-in-your-mouth texture with a satisfying finish. Whether you’re new to baking or just craving something indulgent yet comforting, this recipe is a total winner.

What Kind of Donut Pan Should I Use?

For this recipe, a standard-size nonstick donut pan works best. Silicone pans are great for easy release, but metal pans will give your donuts more structure and an evenly golden color. If you don’t have a donut pan, you can use a muffin tin—just know they won’t have the signature hole in the middle.

Ingredients for the Maple Glazed Donuts

All-purpose flour – The base for a light but sturdy donut.

Baking powder & baking soda – These leavening agents help the donuts rise and create that fluffy interior.

Salt – Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance flavor.

Ground cinnamon – Adds cozy warmth to the batter.

Brown sugar – Brings moisture and a slight caramel note.

Egg – Provides structure and helps bind everything together.

Milk – Adds moisture and helps thin the batter to the right consistency.

Sour cream – Makes the donuts ultra-tender and moist.

Vanilla extract – Enhances the donut flavor subtly.

Unsalted butter – Melted butter adds richness to both the batter and the glaze.

Pure maple syrup – The hero of the glaze, offering deep, real maple flavor.

Powdered sugar – Used in the glaze to create that smooth, pourable texture.

How To Make the Maple Glazed Donuts

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a donut pan with nonstick spray or melted butter. This ensures your donuts pop out with ease and have golden, crisp edges.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Set this aside while you mix the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Blend the Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, egg, milk, sour cream, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth. The sour cream keeps the texture soft and moist.

Step 4: Combine and Fill

Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix just until combined—don’t overmix! Spoon or pipe the batter into the greased donut pan, filling each mold about 2/3 full.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when gently pressed. Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 6: Make the Maple Glaze

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt unsalted butter and whisk in maple syrup. Remove from heat and stir in powdered sugar until smooth and glossy.

Step 7: Dip and Set

Once the donuts are cool enough to handle, dip the tops into the warm glaze. Place back on the rack and allow the glaze to set for at least 10 minutes before serving.

How to Serve and Store These Maple Glazed Donuts

These donuts are best served slightly warm or at room temperature. That glossy maple glaze sets just enough to stay intact, yet still melts a little on your tongue with every bite. Pair them with a hot coffee or a cold glass of milk for a dreamy breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up.

If you’re serving for a crowd, arrange them on a cake stand or a rustic wooden board for an irresistible display. Want a little extra flair? Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top of the glaze.

To store, place the cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, microwave for about 10 seconds to soften the glaze without melting it entirely.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best type of maple syrup to use?

Always use 100% pure maple syrup, not the artificial pancake syrup. Grade A dark color maple syrup has the richest flavor for the glaze.

Can I make these donuts ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the donuts a day ahead and store them unglazed. When you’re ready to serve, warm slightly and dip them in freshly made glaze.

Do I have to use sour cream?

Sour cream adds moisture and a slight tang that balances the sweetness. Greek yogurt is a great substitute if that’s what you have.

Can I freeze the donuts?

Absolutely. Freeze them unglazed in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze when ready to enjoy.

What if I don’t have a donut pan?

You can use a muffin tin or even shape rings with aluminum foil in a baking sheet. Just keep an eye on the bake time.

How do I keep the glaze from running off?

Let the donuts cool completely before glazing, and make sure the glaze is slightly thickened before dipping.

Want More Donut Ideas?

If you’re loving the cozy flavors of these Maple Glazed Donuts, don’t miss these other homemade treats that bring a creative twist to your morning or dessert table:

Bombolini Italian Donuts for a filled, pillowy delight.
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups if you’re into gooey cinnamon goodness in a handheld version.
Old Fashioned Egg Custard Pie when you’re in the mood for a nostalgic southern classic.
Condensed Milk Snow Cookies for melt-in-your-mouth simplicity.
Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats for a unique twist on a no-bake favorite.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest breakfast or dessert board so you can revisit it anytime: Life with Jam on Pinterest.

And if you give these maple glazed donuts a try, leave a comment below! Did you go with pecans or keep it simple? Glaze them twice for extra shine? I’d love to hear what worked for you.

Baking should be fun and flexible, so let’s learn from each other—ask your questions or share your spin on the recipe!