There is something utterly delightful about making a sweet treat that feels both indulgent and surprisingly easy, which is exactly why the Canned Biscuit Glazed Doughnuts Recipe has won a permanent place in my heart and kitchen. These doughnuts turn everyday refrigerated biscuit dough into golden, fluffy morsels of pure happiness, quickly fried to perfection and coated with a luscious vanilla glaze. If you’re craving doughnuts without the hassle of complicated dough or long rising times, this recipe is an absolute game changer. Whether it’s a special weekend treat or an impromptu celebration, these doughnuts deliver comforting sweetness with little fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to whip up this Canned Biscuit Glazed Doughnuts Recipe? The list of ingredients is refreshingly short, yet each element plays a vital role, from texture to flavor to that irresistible buttery golden crust.
- 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough (8 biscuits): The star of the show, they make doughnut prep effortless while ensuring a fluffy, soft bite.
- Vegetable oil, for frying: This neutral oil achieves that perfect crispy exterior without adding any overpowering flavors.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: It forms the sweet base of the glaze, giving doughnuts their signature sheen and sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons milk (or more for desired consistency): It helps melt and thin the powdered sugar into a dreamy glaze, perfect for dipping.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the glaze with a warm, comforting note that pairs beautifully with the fried dough.
How to Make Canned Biscuit Glazed Doughnuts Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Start by heating 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or saucepan over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Maintaining the right temperature is crucial — too hot and the doughnuts burn, too cool and they become greasy. Using a thermometer here is your best bet!
Step 2: Prepare the Biscuit Dough
Open the can of refrigerated biscuit dough and gently separate each biscuit. To create the classic doughnut shape, use a small round cutter—like a bottle cap—to punch out the centers. Don’t toss those little biscuit cutouts! They make delicious bite-sized doughnut holes.
Step 3: Fry the Doughnuts
Carefully place the doughnuts into the hot oil, frying in batches so they have room to cook evenly. Fry each side for 1 to 2 minutes, or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. For the doughnut holes, a quicker fry of 30 to 60 seconds per side is perfect. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Prepare the Vanilla Glaze
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the milk quantity if the glaze is too thick or runs too freely—the perfect glaze clings just enough to coat the doughnuts beautifully.
Step 5: Glaze the Doughnuts
Dip the warm doughnuts and holes into the glaze, making sure to cover them completely. Allow any excess glaze to drip off by placing them on a wire rack — this helps keep the glaze from pooling and keeps each doughnut evenly coated.
Step 6: Serve Fresh and Enjoy!
For the absolute best taste and texture, serve your glazed doughnuts immediately. The contrast between the crispy outside, fluffy inside, and sweet glaze is simply irresistible at its freshest.
How to Serve Canned Biscuit Glazed Doughnuts Recipe

Garnishes
While the classic vanilla glaze is perfection on its own, consider sprinkling some colorful nonpareils or finely chopped nuts over the glaze just before it sets for a festive touch. A light dusting of cinnamon or cinnamon sugar adds a cozy warmth that complements the doughnuts beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair these glazed doughnuts with a rich, steaming cup of coffee or a creamy hot chocolate to turn your snack into a real treat-filled moment. Fresh fruit, like berries or sliced apples, can balance the sweetness, adding a refreshing counterpoint.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful by stacking glazed doughnuts to create a mini doughnut tower for parties or brunch gatherings. Alternatively, use skewers to make doughnut kabobs alternating with fruit chunks and drizzle extra glaze overhead for a dazzling dessert display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (though rare!), place them in an airtight container lined with parchment paper to keep the glaze from sticking. Store at room temperature for up to one day to retain their soft texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze unfrosted fried doughnuts by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag for up to one month. When ready, thaw at room temperature before glazing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes to bring back the crispiness without melting the glaze too much. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that delightful texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use frozen biscuit dough instead of refrigerated?
Frozen biscuit dough can work, but make sure to fully thaw it before frying to ensure even cooking and proper puffiness.
Is vegetable oil the best choice for frying doughnuts?
Vegetable oil’s neutral flavor and high smoke point make it excellent for frying doughnuts. Other oils like canola or peanut oil can also be great alternatives.
How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature?
A thermometer reading of 350°F is ideal. If you don’t have a thermometer, test by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil—it should sizzle immediately without browning too quickly.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
For gluten-free doughnuts, you’d need to substitute the biscuit dough with a gluten-free version that fries well, but keep in mind that texture will differ from the traditional biscuit base.
What’s the best way to get a thin, smooth glaze?
Start with the suggested ratio of powdered sugar to milk, then gradually add milk until you reach a consistency that’s thick enough to coat but thin enough to drip smoothly.
Final Thoughts
This Canned Biscuit Glazed Doughnuts Recipe is one of those absolute gems that makes you wonder why you ever considered store-bought doughnuts. The ease, speed, and delectable results come together in a way that feels like a special treat made just for you. Trust me, once you try these golden, glazed delights, they’ll be requested again and again. So go ahead—grab that can of biscuits and fried dough into something spectacular today!
Print
Canned Biscuit Glazed Doughnuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Canned Biscuit Glazed Doughnuts are a quick and easy homemade treat using refrigerated biscuit dough. Crisply fried to golden perfection and dipped in a sweet vanilla glaze, they make a delightful breakfast or snack that’s ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Doughnuts
- 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough (8 biscuits)
- Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2-3 inches depth)
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (or more for desired consistency)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or saucepan over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C), ideal for frying the doughnuts to a golden crisp.
- Prepare Doughnuts: Open the can of refrigerated biscuit dough and separate the biscuits. Use a small round cutter, such as a bottle cap, to punch holes in the center of each biscuit, forming classic doughnut shapes. Save the centers for frying as doughnut holes.
- Fry the Doughnuts: Carefully fry the doughnuts in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook each side for 1 to 2 minutes or until the doughnuts are golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Fry the doughnut holes for 30 to 60 seconds per side until golden.
- Make the Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Adjust the milk quantity to achieve the glaze consistency you prefer, whether thicker or more drizzly.
- Glaze the Doughnuts: Dip the warm doughnuts and doughnut holes fully into the glaze, allowing excess to drip off on a wire rack. This creates a sweet, shiny coating.
- Serve: Serve the glazed doughnuts immediately for the best flavor and texture, enjoying their fresh crispness and sweet finish.
Notes
- Make sure the oil temperature stays consistent at 350°F for even frying.
- Do not overcrowd the pan while frying to prevent the oil temperature from dropping.
- Use a wire rack for glazing to allow excess glaze to drip and set properly.
- Leftover glazed doughnuts can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 day but are best enjoyed fresh.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond or oat milk in the glaze.

