1. Preheat oven (if baking):

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a donut pan with non-stick spray. (If frying, heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F/175°C.)

2. Prepare the donut batter:

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). In another bowl, whisk the milk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and maple syrup until smooth. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

3. Shape the donuts:

If baking, spoon the donut batter into a donut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full. If frying, transfer the batter to a piping bag and pipe the batter into the hot oil in the shape of donuts.

4. Bake or fry the donuts:

• Baked version: Bake the donuts for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
• Fried version: Fry the donuts for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

5. Prepare the glaze:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the thickness by adding more powdered sugar (to thicken) or more milk (to thin) as needed.

6. Glaze the donuts:

Once the donuts are cool enough to handle, dip the tops of each donut into the maple glaze, allowing any excess glaze to drip off. Let the donuts sit for a few minutes for the glaze to set.

7. Serve:

Enjoy your homemade maple donuts! They are perfect with a cup of coffee or as a sweet breakfast treat.