Name: Maple Glazed Donuts with Toasted Pecans and Cinnamon Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting; 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast; ½ cup warm whole milk (about 110°F / 43°C); 2 tablespoons warm water (about 110°F / 43°C); ¼ cup granulated sugar; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 cups vegetable oil, for frying; 1 ½ cups powdered sugar; ¼ cup pure maple syrup; 2 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; ½ cup chopped toasted pecans; ½ teaspoon flaky sea salt

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 290 reviews

If you have a love for warm, indulgent treats that bring comfort and elegance together, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Maple Glazed Donuts with Toasted Pecans and Cinnamon Recipe. Soft, pillowy donuts get fried to golden perfection, then drenched in a luscious maple glaze that boasts just the right amount of sweetness and a hint of vanilla. The final touch? A beautiful sprinkle of toasted pecans and cinnamon that adds crunch and that warm spice magic, making each bite utterly irresistible. Trust me, these donuts will turn any regular morning into an extraordinary occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top view of various baking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface, including a large white bowl filled with flour at the top right, a white bowl with chopped nuts at the top left, and an oval white bowl holding two brown eggs near the center right. Smaller white bowls hold sugar, yeast, and powdered sugar placed around the larger bowls. A white mug contains milk, and next to it is a small plate with cubes of butter. A glass bottle with clear liquid is centered among the ingredients. Additional items include a small white pitcher, a small cup with dark vanilla extract, a white container with black pepper, and a small bowl of cinnamon, all spaced evenly. The clean setup focuses on the soft textures and natural colors of the baking ingredients. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is the secret to nailing the perfect texture and flavor in this recipe. Each component plays a key role, from the yeast that makes the donuts fluffy, to the cinnamon adding its signature warmth, and the toasted pecans giving that delightful crunch.

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The base that provides structure for soft, tender donuts.
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast: Essential for that perfect rise and airy texture.
½ cup warm whole milk (about 110°F / 43°C): Activates the yeast and keeps the dough moist.
2 tablespoons warm water (about 110°F / 43°C): Helps to proof the yeast just right.
¼ cup granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance flavors and feed the yeast.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all flavors and strengthens the dough.
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds that cozy, fragrant warmth in the dough.
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened: Brings richness and tender crumb to the donuts.
2 large eggs, room temperature: Provide structure and help create a soft crumb.
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract: Gives a sweet, aromatic depth to the dough.
3 cups vegetable oil: Perfect for frying to a golden, crispy exterior.
For the Maple Glaze: 1 ½ cups powdered sugar, ¼ cup pure maple syrup, 2 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt – these craft a shiny, sweet, and flavorful glaze.
Optional Toppings: ½ cup chopped toasted pecans for that irresistible crunch and ½ teaspoon flaky sea salt to elevate the sweetness.

How to Make Maple Glazed Donuts with Toasted Pecans and Cinnamon Recipe

Step 1: Proof the Yeast

Start by combining the warm water and warm milk with the active dry yeast and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy. You want this mixture bubbly and alive to ensure your donuts rise beautifully and have that perfect airy texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon. In another bowl, beat together the softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Once the yeast is proofed, mix it into the wet ingredients, then gradually add the dry mix. Stir until the dough comes together, then knead it well on a floured surface for about 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1 ½ hours or until it has doubled in size. This resting period is crucial for fluffy donuts that practically melt in your mouth.

Step 4: Shape the Donuts

Once risen, roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ½-inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters of different sizes to cut out donut shapes and holes. Place them on a parchment-lined tray, cover, and let them rise again for 30 minutes to get extra fluffy.

Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the donuts in batches, cooking for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side or until they are beautifully golden. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them onto paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 6: Prepare the Maple Glaze

Mix powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk or cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a bowl until smooth and glossy. The glaze should be thick enough to coat the donuts but still runny enough for easy dipping.

Step 7: Glaze and Garnish

Dip each warm donut into the maple glaze, allowing excess to drip off before placing them on a wire rack. Immediately sprinkle with chopped toasted pecans and a light dusting of flaky sea salt for that perfect balance of sweet, crunchy, and salty.

How to Serve Maple Glazed Donuts with Toasted Pecans and Cinnamon Recipe

A close-up view of many round donuts with light brown glaze covering their smooth surface, placed closely together on a black cooling rack on a white marbled surface; small pieces of chopped nuts are scattered evenly on top of each donut, adding texture and a slightly rough look against the shiny glaze, with some nuts fallen around the donuts on the rack; the donuts have a soft, slightly puffy texture with a hole in the center, and the glaze reflects soft light creating a shiny effect photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Aside from the toasted pecans and flaky sea salt, you can get creative by adding a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or even a light dusting of powdered sugar for extra visual appeal and flavor layers. Freshly chopped herbs like mint can add a surprising pop of freshness.

Side Dishes

These donuts are a star by themselves but pair beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a glass of cold milk. Served alongside fresh seasonal fruit or a dollop of whipped cream, they transform your breakfast or snack into an indulgent celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange these donuts on a tiered cake stand for a stunning brunch display or serve them on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of additional maple glaze and nuts for dipping and sprinkling. You could even turn them into donut sandwiches with a smear of cream cheese or mascarpone.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This will keep the donuts soft and delicious without sacrificing the tender crumb and flavor.

Freezing

Donuts freeze beautifully if you want to prep ahead. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

To bring frozen or leftover donuts back to life, warm them gently in a 300°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes. This refreshes the glaze and brings back that freshly-made softness, almost like you just fried them moments ago.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work nicely if you’re not a fan of pecans. Just toast them lightly to enhance the flavor and crunch.

Is it possible to bake these donuts instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake the donuts at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes until golden. While they won’t have the same crispiness as fried, the maple glaze will still make them delightful.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Sure! After kneading, cover the dough tightly and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature and rise before shaping and frying.

How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature?

If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of dough in the oil—if it sizzles and rises quickly to the surface, the oil is ready for frying.

What’s the best maple syrup to use for the glaze?

Use a pure maple syrup with a robust flavor. Grade A Amber is a great choice for a balance of sweetness and maple intensity.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the joy of biting into a warm, sweet donut with a perfect maple glaze and that satisfying crunch of toasted nuts. This Maple Glazed Donuts with Toasted Pecans and Cinnamon Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings homemade charm and cozy flavors that everyone will adore. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a delightful tradition in your kitchen!