If you have a sweet tooth and crave something light, fluffy, and bursting with classic vanilla flavor, you’re going to adore this Cloud-like Vanilla Donuts Recipe. These donuts have an irresistible pillowy texture that melts in your mouth, perfectly complemented by a delicate vanilla glaze. Whether you’re making a weekend treat or impressing guests at brunch, this recipe delivers soft, tender donuts that feel like a little cloud of happiness in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Everything you need for these delightful donuts is simple, wholesome, and thoughtfully chosen to create that perfect balance of taste and texture. Each ingredient plays an essential role, whether it’s adding fluffiness, moisture, sweetness, or that signature vanilla aroma.
- All-purpose flour: The sturdy base that gives the donuts structure while keeping them tender.
- Baking powder: Helps the donuts rise beautifully and become wonderfully airy.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and contributes to a tender crumb.
- Whole milk: Provides richness and moisture for that soft texture.
- Large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add a lovely golden color.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Brings buttery flavor and keeps the donuts melt-in-your-mouth soft.
- Vanilla extract: The star ingredient, infusing warm, comforting flavor throughout.
- Almond extract: Just a touch for a subtle, nutty depth that complements vanilla.
- Powdered sugar (for glaze): For a smooth, sweet glaze that finishes the donuts beautifully.
- Milk (for glaze): Helps create a glossy, pourable glaze.
- Vanilla extract (for glaze): Enhances the glaze with an extra hit of that classic vanilla aroma.
How to Make Cloud-like Vanilla Donuts Recipe
Step 1: Get Ready and Prep Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Greasing your donut pan with cooking spray or butter ensures your donuts come out easy without sticking. This step sets the stage for perfect donuts every time.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Combining these dry ingredients first makes sure your donuts will rise evenly and have that ideal fluffy texture.
Step 3: Blend the Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, mix your granulated sugar, milk, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and almond extract. This mixture brings moisture, richness, and that gorgeous vanilla flavor that’s essential to this Cloud-like Vanilla Donuts Recipe.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Gently stir the dry ingredients into the wet bowl until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here; a few lumps are okay! Overmixing can make your donuts tough instead of soft and airy.
Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan
Spoon the batter into your prepared donut pan, filling each mold about three-quarters of the way. This helps your donuts rise perfectly without overflowing.
Step 6: Smooth the Tops
Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth the batter’s surface so your donuts bake evenly and look picture-perfect.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the donuts in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they spring back to the touch and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. This step is crucial to getting that cloud-like softness.
Step 8: Cooling Time
Let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents sogginess and maintains their tender crumb.
Step 9: Prepare the Vanilla Glaze
Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create a silky glaze. This glazing step adds a sweet, shiny finish that highlights the donuts’ delicate flavor and texture.
Step 10: Glaze and Set
Dip the cooled donuts into the glaze, letting any excess drip off. Place them back on the wire rack and allow the glaze to set for about 10 minutes. This finishing touch makes these donuts irresistible.
How to Serve Cloud-like Vanilla Donuts Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like a sprinkle of powdered sugar, crushed nuts, or colorful sprinkles can enhance visual appeal and add subtle texture contrasts. For an extra special touch, dusting with cinnamon or cocoa powder gives a warm or rich flair.
Side Dishes
Pair these fluffy donuts with a steaming cup of coffee or tea to create a cozy morning treat. Fresh berries or a simple fruit salad provide a refreshing balance that’s naturally sweet and light alongside the donuts.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Cloud-like Vanilla Donuts Recipe stacked on a beautiful cake stand or arranged on a vintage platter with edible flowers for an inviting display. You can also fill the donut holes with cream or jam for a fun surprise that’s sure to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them fresh and soft, ready for an afternoon snack or next-day breakfast.
Freezing
If you want to save these treats for longer, freeze the donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing their cloud-like texture.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy, warm the donuts gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in a low-temperature oven until just heated through. The glaze might soften, but it adds to that freshly baked feel, perfect for a quick indulgence.
FAQs
Can I make these donuts without a donut pan?
Absolutely! If you don’t have a donut pan, you can use a muffin tin and fill the cups slightly less than usual to create “donut holes.” The texture won’t be quite the same, but they’ll still be delicious.
Is it possible to bake these donuts instead of frying?
This Cloud-like Vanilla Donuts Recipe is actually designed to be baked, giving you the airy, soft texture without extra oil. Baking also means these donuts are a bit lighter and easier to make at home.
Can I substitute almond extract with something else?
Yes, if you’re not a fan of almond extract, you can skip it or replace it with an equal amount of extra vanilla extract. It won’t drastically change the recipe but almond adds a subtle nutty note that complements the vanilla beautifully.
How do I know when the donuts are perfectly baked?
Donuts are ready when they bounce back when gently pressed and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This means they are cooked through but still moist and fluffy inside.
Can I add toppings like chocolate or sprinkles?
Definitely! After glazing, adding chocolate drizzle, sprinkles, chopped nuts, or even shredded coconut can make your Cloud-like Vanilla Donuts Recipe even more festive and fun. Just add them before the glaze sets for best results.
Final Thoughts
This Cloud-like Vanilla Donuts Recipe is a delightful way to bring joy and warmth into your kitchen with every bite. The balance of softness, sweetness, and classic vanilla makes these donuts a beloved favorite. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and share the magic of homemade, fluffy donuts with your friends and family. Trust me, once you make these, your donut cravings will never be the same!
