What is the classic doughnut variety with a shiny sugar glaze?

The classic doughnut variety with a shiny sugar glaze is the glazed doughnut. Its defining feature is a thin, glossy coating applied after frying, usually made from confectioners’ sugar and liquid such as water or milk.

Glazed doughnuts can be made from either yeast-raised or cake dough. Yeast-raised versions are light and airy, while cake doughnuts are denser and more crumbly. The glaze sets as it cools, creating the familiar smooth shell that can crack slightly when bitten.

A common mix-up is confusing a glaze with frosting or powdered sugar. Powdered sugar is dusted onto the surface, while frosting is generally thicker and more opaque. The term “original glazed” is also strongly associated with Krispy Kreme, but glazed doughnuts are a broad style sold by bakeries and chains worldwide.