Zesty Baked Lemon Donuts: A Refreshing Treat Recipe

There’s something absolutely delightful about the bright, zesty flavor of baked lemon donuts that makes your taste buds dance like nobody’s watching. Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy donut topped with a sweet, tangy glaze that’s as refreshing as a cool breeze on a summer day. Sunday morning breakfast These baked lemon donuts are not just a treat; they’re an experience that can brighten up any dull morning or sweeten up your afternoon tea.

Now, if you’re anything like me, you probably have fond memories of your childhood filled with the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the house. Lemon donuts have been part of my family gatherings, bringing smiles and happy chatter with every bite. Whether it’s a sunny brunch or a cozy evening snack, these donuts promise to deliver joy wrapped in citrusy goodness.

Ingredients for Baked Lemon Donuts

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: A sturdy base for the donuts; sifting helps achieve a light texture.
• Baking Powder: Essential for achieving that fluffy rise in each donut.
• Granulated Sugar: For sweetness; feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
• Eggs: Two large eggs provide moisture and structure to the donut batter.
• Milk: Use whole milk for richness; almond or oat milk can be substituted.
• Lemon Zest: Freshly grated zest brings out the vibrant flavor and aroma.
• Lemon Juice: Fresh juice adds the perfect tanginess to balance the sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
• Powdered Sugar: For glazing; it gives that delightful sweetness on top of your donuts.

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). This step is crucial because we want those donuts to rise beautifully while baking.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Lightly grease a donut pan with nonstick cooking spray. Trust me; nobody wants their perfectly shaped donuts stuck in those molds.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and granulated sugar until well combined. Sifting will help ensure there are no lumps.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together eggs, milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until fully blended. Make sure you’re squeezing all that juicy goodness out of those lemons!

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold them together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! We want tender donuts here.

Step 6: Fill & Bake

Carefully spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about two-thirds full. Bake in your preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until they spring back when touched.

Once baked, allow your baked lemon donuts to cool slightly before removing them from the pan.

To finish off these beauties, mix powdered sugar with some fresh lemon juice to create a simple glaze. Drizzle generously over each donut while they’re still warm. Transfer to plates and serve with a sprinkle of extra zest if you’re feeling fancy!

These baked lemon donuts are perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon treat paired with your favorite beverage. They’ll bring sunshine into your kitchen no matter what the weather looks like outside! Enjoy every zesty bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven and mixing dry ingredients. While that’s happening, whip up the wet ingredients separately. Combine everything smoothly before pouring the batter into a donut pan. Bake until golden and let them cool slightly before glazing. This sequence ensures perfect texture every time.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize these baked lemon donuts! Swap out lemon zest for orange zest for a different citrus twist or add poppy seeds for extra crunch. You can also replace the glaze with a dusting of powdered sugar for a simpler finish that still tantalizes the taste buds.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover baked lemon donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy them later, freeze them in a zip-top bag. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or let them thaw naturally.

I remember the first time I made these baked lemon donuts; my kids declared me “the donut queen” after just one bite! Their joy was priceless, and now they request these little gems every weekend.

FAQs:

What are Baked Lemon Donuts?

Baked lemon donuts are a delightful twist on traditional donuts, offering a light and fluffy texture without the need for frying. Made with fresh lemon juice and zest, these donuts are infused with a bright citrus flavor that makes them perfect for breakfast or as a snack. savory meal option The baking process keeps them healthier compared to their fried counterparts, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a delicious treat without the extra calories. Enjoy them warm with a light glaze or dusted with powdered sugar to enhance their flavor. For more inspiration, check out this baked apples recipe recipe.

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 by placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Just make sure they are completely cooled before freezing to maintain their texture. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.

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. However, this may slightly alter the texture and flavor of the donuts. Whole wheat flour tends to provide a denser texture but adds more fiber and nutrients. To ensure that your donuts remain light and fluffy, consider using half whole wheat flour and half all-purpose flour as a compromise. This way, you still achieve some health benefits while retaining the classic donut feel.

What toppings go 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 a popular choice that adds sweetness and tang. You might also sprinkle some fresh lemon zest on top for an extra burst of flavor. sweet dessert pairing For those who prefer something richer, consider drizzling melted white chocolate over the donuts or topping them with a light cream cheese frosting. Fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries can also complement these delightful treats.

Conclusion for Baked Lemon Donuts:

Baked lemon donuts are an irresistible treat that combines vibrant citrus flavors with a healthier baking method. By using fresh lemon juice and zest, these donuts bring brightness to any occasion. They are easy to store, making them perfect for breakfast or snacking throughout the week. perfect brunch addition Whether topped with glaze or enjoyed plain, they remain moist and flavorful. Experimenting with different flours or toppings further enhances your experience with these delightful baked goods! Indulge in baked lemon donuts today for a refreshing dessert option!

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📖 Recipe Card

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Baked Lemon Donuts

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• Author: Liora
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: Makes about 12 donuts 1x

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Description

Baked lemon donuts are a refreshing, light treat that perfectly balances zesty citrus flavors with a fluffy texture. These delightful baked goodies, topped with a sweet lemon glaze, are quick to prepare and ideal for brightening your mornings or serving as an afternoon snack. Whether enjoyed plain or dressed up with toppings, these donuts promise to impress family and friends alike.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup whole milk (or almond/oat milk)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glazing)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan with nonstick spray.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and sugar until combined.
3. In another bowl, beat eggs, milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla until blended.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined.
5. Spoon the batter into the prepared pan, filling each cavity two-thirds full.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and springy to the touch.
7. Allow cooling slightly before glazing with a mixture of powdered sugar and lemon juice.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 donut (45g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 75mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg