Baked Lemon Donuts are like sunshine on a plate, bursting with zesty flavor and sweet delight. Imagine biting into a fluffy, warm donut that dances on your taste buds, leaving you craving more. creamy cheesecake mousse pie The aroma of fresh lemons wafts through the air, instantly brightening your mood and making every moment feel like a special occasion.
Whether it’s a lazy Sunday brunch or a surprise treat for your best friend, these donuts are the perfect companion. I remember the first time I made them—my kitchen transformed into a lemon-scented wonderland, and my family couldn’t resist popping in to sneak a taste. Trust me, once you bake these donuts, you’ll have everyone asking for seconds! For more inspiration, check out this Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These baked lemon donuts are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for any baking novice.
- With their bright lemon flavor and fluffy texture, they look as good as they taste.
- They are versatile enough to serve at breakfast or as an afternoon snack.
- Plus, they are healthier than fried donuts while still satisfying your sweet tooth!
Ingredients for Baked Lemon Donuts
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides the base for our donuts; sifted flour ensures lightness and fluffiness.
- Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness that perfectly balances the tartness of the lemons.
- Baking Powder: This is our secret weapon for fluffy donuts; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all flavors and balances sweetness.
- Eggs: Acts as a binding agent, giving structure and moisture to the donuts.
- Buttermilk: Adds richness and tang; if you don’t have it on hand, regular milk will work too. For more inspiration, check out this Easy Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies recipe.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: The star of our show! Use freshly squeezed juice for maximum flavor.
- Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of zest amplifies that citrus punch, making each bite more vibrant!
- Melted Butter: Adds richness and helps keep the donuts moist; don’t skimp on this!
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
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because nobody wants cold donuts. While it warms up, lightly grease your donut pan with nonstick cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until combined. This will ensure an even distribution of all dry ingredients.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat eggs and then add buttermilk, melted butter, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Whisk until everything is well mixed; you should see some bubbles forming from the buttermilk reacting with the acid.
Step 4: Blend It All Together
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold them together using a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to overmix—lumps are okay!
Step 5: Fill the Pan
Spoon the batter into your prepared donut pan about two-thirds full. If you’re feeling fancy (and who isn’t?), use a piping bag or zip lock bag with one corner snipped off for cleaner filling.
Step 6: Bake
Pop those delightful little rings in the oven for about 10-12 minutes or until they’re golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed. Once done baking, let them cool slightly before removing from the pan.
Transfer to plates and serve while still warm; you can dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze if you’re feeling extra indulgent!
Now that you’ve mastered these Baked Lemon Donuts, get ready for compliments from friends and family! Each bite is like taking a mini vacation to a sunny citrus grove—so go ahead and enjoy every last crumb!
You Must Know
- Baked lemon donuts are not just a treat; they’re a delightful experience.
- With their zesty flavor and fluffy texture, these donuts will brighten your day.
- Plus, they’re healthier than fried versions, making them perfect for any occasion or snack attack.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you mix the dry ingredients. Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and zest in one bowl. In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, and melted butter. Finally, blend both mixtures together before pouring the batter into your donut pan.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out regular flour for almond or whole wheat flour for added nutrition. You could also play around with different citrus flavors like orange or lime instead of lemon for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store baked lemon donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy them later, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and reheat in the microwave for a few seconds.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly fluffy baked lemon donuts, be sure not to overmix the batter; it should be just combined.
- Always use fresh lemons for maximum zestiness and flavor.
- Let the donuts cool completely before glazing to prevent the icing from melting away.
Sometimes I whip up a batch of these baked lemon donuts when I need a pick-me-up. Friends rave about them at brunches, and honestly, who wouldn’t love a donut that feels like sunshine on a plate? blueberry chimichangas for brunch.
FAQs :
What are Baked Lemon Donuts?
Baked lemon donuts are a delightful treat that combines the bright, zesty flavor of lemons with the soft, fluffy texture of baked donuts. Unlike their fried counterparts, they are made using a simple batter that includes flour, sugar, eggs, and fresh lemon juice. These donuts are healthier and easier to make at home. They are perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack throughout the day.
How do I store Baked Lemon Donuts?
To store baked lemon donuts, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This helps maintain their freshness and flavor. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them for up to a week or freezing them for up to three months. Just be sure to wrap each donut tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
Can I use other citrus fruits instead of lemon?
Yes, you can easily substitute other citrus fruits in your baked donuts. For instance, orange or lime zest and juice can provide a similar refreshing flavor profile. Experimenting with different citrus fruits will allow you to create unique variations of your baked lemon donuts while still enjoying that bright taste that citrus offers.
What toppings pair well with Baked Lemon Donuts?
Baked lemon donuts pair wonderfully with a variety of toppings. A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice enhances their flavor beautifully. You can also use fresh berries or whipped cream for added sweetness and texture. Consider sprinkling some toasted coconut or crushed nuts on top for an exciting crunch.
Conclusion for Baked Lemon Donuts :
In summary, baked lemon donuts offer a deliciously light and zesty treat perfect for any occasion. They come together easily with simple ingredients, making them an ideal choice for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike. By experimenting with various toppings and flavors, you can customize these treats to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy these delightful baked goodies as a refreshing snack or a delightful dessert!
Baked Lemon Donuts
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Baked Lemon Donuts are a delightful way to brighten your day with their zesty flavor and fluffy texture. These baked treats are perfect for breakfast or as a sweet afternoon snack, offering a healthier alternative to traditional fried donuts. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have delicious, warm donuts that your family will love. Serve them dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with lemon glaze for an extra touch of indulgence.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a donut pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the egg and mix in buttermilk, melted butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Fill the donut pan about two-thirds full with batter.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until golden brown and springy to touch. Allow cooling slightly before removing from the pan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut (45g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
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