If you’re looking for a fun twist on a classic treat, this Strawberry Glazed Donuts Recipe is absolutely perfect. Imagine soft, fluffy donuts with a delicate pink hue and that fresh burst of strawberry flavor in every bite—trust me, they’re irresistible!

Four round donuts with rough, golden-brown sides coated in sugar are placed on torn brown parchment paper. Each donut has a thick layer of pink glaze on top, with small red strawberry pieces scattered over the glaze. The donuts rest on a wooden surface with a few stray strawberry bits nearby. Two glass bottles filled with white milk are in the blurred background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Strawberry Glazed Donuts Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Strawberry Glazed Donuts Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Glazed Donuts Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Making these strawberry glazed donuts at home has been one of my favorite kitchen adventures lately. From the tangzhong technique that makes the dough pillow-soft, to the vibrant pink color and fresh strawberry glaze, this recipe quickly became a crowd favorite in my house.

Unique Flavor and Color: Freeze-dried strawberry powder brings a natural fruity flavor and lovely pink tone without artificial coloring.
Light & Fluffy Texture: Using the tangzhong method guarantees incredibly soft and tender donuts every time.
Perfectly Fried Every Time: Clear frying times and temperatures help you get that perfect golden crust with a melt-in-your-mouth center.
Customizable Glaze: The strawberry sugar and glaze combo add just the right sweet, tangy finish that’s totally drool-worthy.

Ingredients & Why They Work

When it comes to these strawberry glazed donuts, a few pantry staples come together with some special touches like freeze-dried strawberry powder to deliver that vibrant color and flavor. I always recommend grabbing freeze-dried strawberries or powder at well-stocked grocery stores or online to get the best taste.

Flat lay of a small white ceramic bowl filled with clear water, a small white ceramic bowl holding white bread flour, a few tablespoons of granulated sugar lightly heaped in a white ceramic dish, a whole large brown egg with a clean shell, a small white ceramic bowl of pale pink freeze-dried strawberry powder, a few tablespoons of unsalted butter in a solid stick form, a small white ceramic bowl of whole milk, a small white ceramic bowl filled with fine sea salt crystals, a small white ceramic bowl with neutral cooking oil, a small white ceramic bowl filled with powdered sugar, and some whole freeze-dried strawberries scattered neatly, all arranged in perfect symmetry on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Water: Essential for making the tangzhong, which keeps the donuts moist and tender.
Bread Flour: Provides the right amount of gluten development for chewy, soft dough.
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps nourish the yeast for good rise.
Instant Yeast: For a steady, predictable fermentation so your dough rises beautifully.
Fine Sea Salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the strawberry notes.
Whole Milk: Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
Large Egg: Helps with structure and gives the texture a nice bounce.
Freeze-Dried Strawberry Powder: The star ingredient for that gorgeous pink dough and fresh strawberry flavor.
Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and creates that tender crumb.
Neutral Oil (Canola, Vegetable, or Avocado): Best for frying to keep the donuts light and crisp without adding extra flavor.
Powdered Sugar: Key for the smooth and sweet strawberry glaze.
Extra Freeze-Dried Strawberries: For garnishing to add texture and visual appeal on top of the glaze.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

The Strawberry Glazed Donuts Recipe is wonderfully versatile, so don’t be afraid to play around with flavors and toppings to suit your taste or occasion. Whether you prefer a lighter glaze or extra crunch, you can tailor these donuts to make them truly yours!

Glaze Swap: I once tried substituting half of the powdered sugar with cream cheese to create a strawberry cream cheese glaze. It added a lovely tang that balanced the sweetness beautifully.
Vegan Variation: To make these donuts vegan-friendly, you can replace whole milk with almond or oat milk, swap the egg for a flax egg, and use vegan butter. The freeze-dried strawberry powder still lends that magical pink hue and flavor.
Seasonal Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a hint of vanilla extract to the glaze for a fall-inspired version. It gives the donuts a warm, comforting vibe that’s perfect for the cooler months.
Extra Crunch: Top your glazed donuts with chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds along with the freeze-dried strawberry pieces for a delightful texture contrast.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Strawberry Glazed Donuts Recipe

The image shows two doughnuts stacked on a white marbled surface, each covered with a smooth pink glaze that drips down the sides. The top doughnut has a large bite taken out, revealing a soft, airy inside with a light brown color. Small red crumbles are scattered on top of both doughnuts, adding texture and color contrast. In the background, a blurred glass container with milk can be seen against a dark backdrop. The overall look is warm and inviting, focusing on the doughnuts' textures and colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Whip Up the Tangzhong Base

Start by making your tangzhong, which is key to that fluffy, soft donut texture. Whisk together ¾ cup water and ¼ cup bread flour in a small saucepan, then cook over medium heat while whisking constantly. After about 4 to 5 minutes, you’ll see it thicken into a smooth paste—think pudding-like consistency. Once done, scrape it into a bowl and let it cool. This step may seem small, but it makes a tremendous difference in the donut’s lightness!

Step 2: Bring the Strawberry Dough Together

In your stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine 3 cups + 2 tablespoons bread flour, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon + ¼ teaspoon instant yeast, and 1 ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt. Then add ⅔ cup room temperature whole milk, 1 large room temperature egg, and the cooled tangzhong. Knead at low speed for 2 minutes until the flour is hydrated and dough begins to form.

Next, sprinkle in ¼ cup freeze-dried strawberry powder. This is what gives your dough that gorgeous pale pink color and subtle fruity flavor. Knead until it’s fully incorporated and the dough looks evenly tinted.

Step 3: Incorporate Butter and Knead to Perfection

Add 5 tablespoons of unsalted butter gradually—one tablespoon at a time—making sure each addition is fully mixed before adding the next. Then turn the mixer speed up to level 2 and knead for 12 minutes. When the dough is smooth, elastic, and passes the windowpane test (meaning you can stretch a small piece thin without tearing), you know you’re there. The dough should feel soft and slightly tacky but not sticky.

Step 4: First Rise and Parchment Prep

Shape the dough into a ball, place it in a clean bowl, and cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Let it rest and rise for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, cut nine parchment squares around 4 to 5 inches each – these will help you handle the delicate doughnuts during frying.

Step 5: Shape Donuts and Let Them Puff Up

Flour your work surface lightly and roll the dough to about ¾-inch thickness. Use a donut cutter to cut out as many donuts as you can. Don’t toss those scraps! Reroll them once to maximize your yield.

Place each donut on a parchment square on a baking tray, cover loosely, and let them rise for 60 to 75 minutes until doubled in size and puffy. If your kitchen is cool, give them a bit more time. This second rise is crucial for that airy texture.

Step 6: Frying Time—Golden and Perfect

Heat 3 to 4 inches of neutral oil (canola, vegetable, or avocado oil) in a heavy-bottomed pot to 340°F. Keep the temperature steady between 330°F and 350°F—too hot and the outside burns before the inside cooks, too cool and the donuts become greasy.

When the donuts feel light and spring back slowly when pressed, they’re ready. Fry them in batches of two, lowering them gently with the parchment attached. Remove the parchment after 5 to 10 seconds, then fry for a total of 2½ minutes, flipping halfway through. You’re looking for that beautiful golden brown with a delicate pale ring around the center.

Transfer to a wire rack and let cool completely before moving on to the next delicious step!

Step 7: Roll in Strawberry Sugar for Extra Love

Mix ½ cup granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon freeze-dried strawberry powder. Gently roll just the donut sides in this strawberry sugar as soon as they’ve cooled. This adds a delightful sparkle and an extra burst of strawberry flavor into every bite.

Step 8: Glaze and Garnish the Stars

Whisk together 2 cups powdered sugar, 1 to 2 tablespoons freeze-dried strawberry powder (adjust to preferred intensity), and 4 to 5 tablespoons room temperature water until smooth, thick but pourable. Spoon this vibrant pink glaze over the tops of your sugared donuts. For the crowning touch, sprinkle extra freeze-dried strawberry pieces on top. Allow the glaze to set slightly before digging in.

Top Tip

Mastering these strawberry glazed donuts is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips that will take your Strawberry Glazed Donuts Recipe to the next level, based on what I've learned in my kitchen adventures.

Temperature Control: Keep your frying oil steady between 330°F and 350°F. I’ve found that maintaining this range prevents the donuts from turning greasy or getting too dark before they’re cooked through.
Freeze-Dried Strawberry Powder: I always grind the freeze-dried strawberries myself when possible. Freshly ground powder gives a more vibrant pink color and intense strawberry flavor than pre-ground versions.
Donut Dough Kneading: Don’t rush the kneading—spending those 12 minutes until the dough passes the windowpane test makes all the difference for soft, tender donuts that hold their airy texture.
Careful Proofing: Letting your donuts rise until they’re fully puffed and doubled in size (about 60 to 75 minutes) ensures they fry up light and fluffy—not dense or doughy. I avoid cutting this time short even if I’m eager to fry!

How to Serve Strawberry Glazed Donuts Recipe

The image shows a close-up view of light pink dough inside a clear glass mixing bowl. The dough has a smooth, slightly sticky texture with a few small red specks scattered throughout. A metal dough hook is partially submerged in the dough, resting against the bowl's side. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

These donuts really shine with a sprinkle of extra freeze-dried strawberry pieces on top of the glaze, adding delightful crunch and a gorgeous look. You can also dust lightly with powdered sugar or add a few tiny fresh strawberry slices for an extra burst of freshness and color.

Side Dishes

Pair your strawberry glazed donuts with a refreshing fruit salad made from citrus and berries to complement the sweet glaze. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a creamy latte always elevates the experience, especially during breakfast or brunch. If you're serving dessert, vanilla bean ice cream or whipped cream on the side is a lovely indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover donuts in a container with a loosely placed lid so excess moisture can escape. This keeps them from getting soggy and allows the donut’s texture to stay pleasantly soft. They stay fresh and delicious for up to two days when stored this way.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted donuts by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature, then add the strawberry glaze and sugar coating fresh for best results.

Reheating

To revive day-old donuts, warm them gently in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. This softens the texture without melting the glaze too much. Avoid microwaving as it can make them rubbery or soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried strawberry powder for the glaze?

Freeze-dried strawberry powder provides a concentrated flavor and vibrant color without adding extra moisture, which keeps the glaze smooth and thick. Using fresh strawberries will make the glaze runnier and less stable, so it's best to stick with freeze-dried powder for this recipe.

How do I know when the donuts are properly fried?

Properly fried donuts should be a golden brown color with a slight pale ring around the center. They will feel light and airy, and when pressed gently, they should spring back slowly. Keeping the oil temperature steady between 330°F and 350°F helps achieve this perfect fry.

Why do I need to use tangzhong in this Strawberry Glazed Donuts Recipe?

Tangzhong is a cooked flour-water mixture that helps keep the donut dough soft, tender, and moist even after frying. It improves the texture and shelf life of the donuts, making them wonderfully fluffy and less prone to drying out.

Can I make these donuts ahead of time?

You can prepare the dough and fry the donuts ahead, then store them as mentioned. However, for the best texture and flavor, it’s ideal to glaze the donuts just before serving. If making the glaze in advance, keep it covered and stir well before use.

Final Thoughts

Making these Strawberry Glazed Donuts Recipe truly is a labor of love, but the result is absolutely worth it. There's something so special about sinking your teeth into a freshly fried donut with that delicate strawberry sweetness shining through in every bite. Whether you’re enjoying them at breakfast, brunch, or as a treat to brighten your day, I hope these donuts bring a smile and become a beloved homemade favorite in your kitchen.