# What You Need:
→ Donuts
01 - 36 mini glazed donuts (store-bought or homemade)
→ Icing
02 - 2 cups powdered sugar
03 - 3 to 4 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Decorations
05 - 1/2 cup assorted colorful sprinkles
06 - Edible gold stars (optional)
07 - Graduation-themed toothpick toppers (optional)
# How-To:
01 - If donuts are homemade, confirm they are completely cooled before beginning; if store-bought, choose fresh donuts and bring them to room temperature for best adhesion.
02 - Combine powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons milk and vanilla in a bowl; whisk until smooth. Add the remaining tablespoon of milk only if the icing is too thick—aim for a glossy, pourable consistency.
03 - Dip the top of each mini donut into the icing, allow excess to drip off, then immediately press into sprinkles or sprinkle them on. Place decorated donuts on a rack or tray and let the icing set for about 15 minutes.
04 - Position a 12-inch foam cone or cone-shaped tower base on a serving platter or cake stand to ensure stability before assembling.
05 - Starting at the cone base, impale the center of each donut into the cone or secure through the center with a wooden skewer/toothpick so the donuts sit flush and form a stable first ring.
06 - Continue placing donuts in slightly overlapping rings, working upward and angling each donut slightly inward. Use additional skewers or toothpicks where needed to stabilize the structure.
07 - Fill any visible gaps with extra donuts or smaller pieces trimmed with a knife. Scatter additional sprinkles and add edible gold stars for sparkle where desired.
08 - Place a graduation-themed topper or decorative piece at the peak. Inspect the tower for balance and press any loose donuts gently to secure.
09 - Present immediately for best appearance, or cover and keep at room temperature for up to 2 hours before serving to preserve texture and icing.
