Name: Maple Glazed Long Johns
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the dough:; 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast; 1 cup whole milk (warm); 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened); 2 large eggs; 1/2 tsp salt; Vegetable oil (for frying); For the maple glaze:; 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 2–3 tbsp milk or cream; 1/2 tsp maple extract (optional); Pinch of salt

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Maple Glazed Long Johns are rectangular, yeast-risen donuts topped with a smooth, sweet maple glaze. Often enjoyed as a breakfast pastry or indulgent snack, these classic bakery favorites offer the perfect balance of fluffy dough and rich maple flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Maple Glazed Long Johns combine the softness of a raised donut with the bold, comforting taste of maple. Their unique shape makes them ideal for glazing and filling, while their texture is light and airy. These donuts are not only delicious but also visually appealing and satisfying to make from scratch.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the dough:

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Active dry yeast
Whole milk (warm)
Unsalted butter (softened)
Eggs
Salt
Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the maple glaze:

Powdered sugar
Maple syrup
Milk or cream
Maple extract (optional, for stronger flavor)
Pinch of salt

Directions

In a bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with a teaspoon of sugar. Let sit until foamy, about 5–10 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, butter, eggs, and yeast mixture. Knead until a smooth, elastic dough forms.
Cover and let rise in a warm area until doubled in size, about 1 to 1½ hours.
Roll out dough to ½-inch thickness and cut into rectangular shapes. Place on a parchment-lined tray.
Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry donuts in batches until golden brown on both sides, about 1–2 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk or cream, and maple extract until smooth.
Dip the tops of cooled donuts into the glaze and place on a wire rack to set.

Servings and timing

Servings: 10–12 Long Johns
Prep time: 20 minutes
Rise time: 1.5–2 hours
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: ~2.5 hours

Variations

Filled version: Pipe custard, cream, or jam into the center after frying.
Chocolate topping: Replace maple glaze with a chocolate ganache for a different twist.
Nut topping: Sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts over the glaze.
Vegan version: Use plant-based milk, egg replacer, and vegan butter substitutes.

Storage/reheating

Store unglazed donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Glazed donuts are best eaten the day they’re made. To reheat, place in a microwave for 10–15 seconds. Avoid refrigerating as it may dry out the texture. Freezing is possible before glazing—thaw and reheat before adding glaze.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry?

Yes, but reduce the rising time slightly as instant yeast activates faster.

How do I make the donuts fluffier?

Ensure proper kneading and allow adequate rising time in a warm, draft-free space.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Frying gives the classic texture, but baking is possible—brush with butter and bake at 375°F for 12–15 minutes.

What’s the best oil for frying?

Use neutral oils like vegetable or canola oil with a high smoke point.

Can I make the dough the night before?

Yes, prepare the dough and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and frying.

How do I avoid greasy donuts?

Make sure oil is at the correct temperature—too low, and the dough will absorb excess oil.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe doubles well. Be sure to use a large bowl and enough oil for frying.

Do I need a stand mixer?

No, you can knead the dough by hand, though it may take a bit longer to develop the right elasticity.

How long should I let the glaze set?

About 15–20 minutes at room temperature.

Can I add flavor to the dough?

Yes, a bit of cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract can enhance the flavor of the dough.

Conclusion

Maple Glazed Long Johns are a nostalgic bakery treat that you can recreate in your own kitchen with simple ingredients and a bit of time. Their soft, airy texture and rich maple topping make them a memorable indulgence for breakfast or dessert. With endless variations and a delightful homemade flavor, they are sure to become a household favorite.

Maple Glazed Long Johns

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Maple Glazed Long Johns are fluffy, rectangular yeast donuts coated in a rich maple glaze. A beloved bakery classic, they make a perfect breakfast pastry or indulgent treat.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Yield: 10–12 Long Johns 1x
Category: Breakfast
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 tsp sugar. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
In a large bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, salt, butter, eggs, and yeast mixture. Knead until a smooth dough forms (8–10 minutes).
Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Roll dough to 1/2-inch thickness and cut into rectangles. Place on a parchment-lined tray, cover, and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry donuts in batches, 1–2 minutes per side, until golden. Drain on paper towels.
For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk or cream, maple extract (if using), and a pinch of salt until smooth.
Dip tops of cooled donuts into glaze. Place on a wire rack and let set for 15–20 minutes before serving.