Baked Lemon Donuts are like sunshine on a plate, bursting with zesty flavors and a fluffy texture that makes your taste buds do a happy dance. Imagine biting into a warm donut, its sweet lemon glaze dripping down your fingers while the aroma tickles your nose, making you feel like you’ve just stepped into a bakery on a sunny day. For more inspiration, check out this easy air fryer cookies recipe.
These delightful treats remind me of my childhood summers spent at the county fair, where the air was thick with the scent of fried dough and lemonade. I would always beg my mom for one more donut before we headed home. Now, I can recreate that nostalgic joy right in my kitchen. Perfect for brunch or an afternoon snack, these Baked Lemon Donuts will have your friends asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Baked Lemon Donuts are quick to whip up, requiring minimal ingredients and effort.
- Their bright lemon flavor provides a refreshing twist that’s perfect for any occasion.
- The soft, fluffy texture will make them disappear fast, leaving everyone craving more.
- These donuts look stunning topped with glaze, making them an attractive treat for gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients for Baked Lemon Donuts
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: A must-have for creating a light and fluffy donut base; choose unbleached flour for better results.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps achieve that lovely golden-brown color.
- Baking Powder: Essential for giving the donuts their rise; make sure it’s fresh to get the best fluffiness.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Milk: Whole milk works best for richness, but you can use any milk you prefer.
- Egg: One large egg helps bind everything together and adds moisture.
- Lemon Zest: Freshly grated zest provides vibrant flavor; it’s like sunshine in your batter!
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice is key for that tangy kick that makes these donuts shine.
- Butter: Melted butter brings richness to each bite; don’t skimp on quality!
For the Glaze:
- Powdered Sugar: This gives the glaze its smooth texture; sifting it ensures no lumps.
- Lemon Juice: Use fresh juice again to keep that bright flavor profile in the glaze.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Baked Lemon Donuts
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grab your donut pan and lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray. We’re not trying to create a new form of art here—let’s keep those donuts intact!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until combined. Feel free to channel your inner scientist—this is where the magic begins!
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat together the milk, egg, melted butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth. It should smell like summer!
Step 4: Unite Both Mixtures
Pour your wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined—overmixing is a common pitfall that leads to dense donuts! We want light and fluffy delights instead.
Step 5: Fill Your Pan
Carefully spoon the batter into each cavity of your prepared donut pan until they’re about two-thirds full. If you’re feeling fancy (and why wouldn’t you?), use a piping bag for cleaner filling.
Step 6: Bake & Cool
Pop those beauties into your preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until they’re golden brown and spring back when touched. Once done, let them cool in the pan for about five minutes before transferring them to wire racks.
Step 7: Prepare the Glaze
While those donuts are cooling down, mix powdered sugar with enough lemon juice in a small bowl until you reach a smooth consistency. Dip each donut in this dreamy glaze while it’s still warm—because who doesn’t love warm sugary goodness?
Transfer them to plates and serve immediately—or try not to eat them all at once!
With their irresistible lemon flavor and soft texture, these Baked Lemon Donuts are not just treats—they’re happiness on a plate! Perfectly paired with coffee or tea during brunch or as an afternoon pick-me-up snack. Lemon Poppyseed Muffins Enjoy!
You Must Know
- Baked Lemon Donuts are not just delightful treats; they’re a burst of sunshine in every bite.
- These little rings of joy are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or whenever you need a sweet pick-me-up.
- Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make and customize!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it warms up, mix your dry ingredients in one bowl and wet ingredients in another. Then, combine them like a match made in heaven. Pour the batter into your donut pan and bake until golden brown—about 10-12 minutes.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to get creative! Swap out lemon zest for orange or lime for a different citrus twist. Add poppy seeds for texture or sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for extra sweetness. You can even pipe in some lemon curd for an unexpected surprise!
Storing & Reheating
Store your Baked Lemon Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For a warm treat later, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds. Instant happiness!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To keep your donuts fluffy, avoid over-mixing the batter; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
- Always use fresh lemon juice and zest for maximum flavor impact.
- And don’t forget to let them cool before glazing—trust me, it’s worth the wait!
When I first made these Baked Lemon Donuts, my friends devoured them faster than I could say “donut.” Their smiles said it all—these treats are pure joy on a plate!
FAQs :
What are Baked Lemon Donuts?
Baked Lemon Donuts are a delicious and light treat that combines the bright flavor of fresh lemons with a soft, cake-like texture. Unlike traditional fried donuts, these baked versions offer a healthier alternative without compromising taste. Lemon Raspberry Cake The recipe typically includes ingredients like flour, sugar, baking powder, eggs, and lemon juice. You can also add a lemon glaze for extra sweetness. These donuts are perfect for breakfast or as a dessert.
How do I store Baked Lemon Donuts?
To keep your Baked Lemon Donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the donuts. Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Thaw them at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Can I use whole wheat flour for Baked Lemon Donuts?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour when making Baked Lemon Donuts. This swap adds more fiber and nutrients to the recipe while still maintaining good flavor and texture. However, the donuts may have a denser texture compared to those made with all-purpose flour. It’s best to use white whole wheat flour if you’re looking for a milder taste.
What toppings work well with Baked Lemon Donuts?
Baked Lemon Donuts pair beautifully with various toppings that enhance their citrus flavor. A simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice is popular and adds sweetness. You can also sprinkle powdered sugar or drizzle honey on top for added sweetness without overpowering the lemon flavor. Additionally, consider using fresh berries or whipped cream as garnishes.
Conclusion for Baked Lemon Donuts :
Baked Lemon Donuts are a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweetness with citrusy brightness. They are easy to prepare and offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried donuts. Store them properly to enjoy their freshness longer or experiment with different toppings for variety. Easy Chocolate Mousse Whether served at breakfast or as an afternoon snack, these donuts are sure to please anyone who loves lemon-flavored desserts.
Baked Lemon Donuts
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 6 donuts 1x
Description
Baked Lemon Donuts are a delightful treat that combines the vibrant flavor of fresh lemons with a soft, fluffy texture. These light and airy donuts are baked instead of fried, making them a healthier option without sacrificing taste. Topped with a sweet lemon glaze, they make the perfect addition to brunch or a refreshing snack any time of day. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can whip up these scrumptious delights that will brighten your day!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice for the glaze
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
- In one bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine milk, egg, melted butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Gently mix wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just combined.
- Fill the donut pan about two-thirds full with batter.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
- For the glaze, mix powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth; dip warm donuts in glaze.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut (40g)
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
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