Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze

Introduction

Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze are the perfect combination of light, fluffy texture and a tangy citrus punch. These soft, baked donuts are infused with fresh lemon zest and juice, giving them a refreshing, bright flavor. Topped with a sweet and tart lemon glaze, these donuts are a delightful treat for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack.

I first made these when I was craving something sweet yet refreshing, and they turned out to be the perfect balance of flavor. The light, airy texture of the donuts combined with the zesty lemon glaze was an instant hit with everyone. The great thing about these donuts is that they’re baked, not fried, so they’re a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.

They’re easy to make, deliciously zesty, and sure to brighten your day! Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them yourself, these donuts are a sweet, tangy treat that’s sure to bring a smile to your face.

Perfect for:

• Breakfast or brunch
• Special occasions
• Afternoon tea
• Citrus lovers
• Light, sweet treats

Why You’ll Love This Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze

Here’s why Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze will become your new favorite:

• Light and Fluffy Texture: These baked donuts are airy and soft, thanks to the use of buttermilk and the right amount of leavening.
• Refreshing Lemon Flavor: The combination of lemon zest and fresh lemon juice gives these donuts a perfect balance of tangy and sweet.
• Simple and Easy: These donuts come together quickly, with a simple batter that’s easy to mix up. No frying needed!
• Lemon Glaze: The sweet and tart lemon glaze is the perfect finishing touch, adding an extra layer of citrusy goodness.
• Perfectly Baked: These donuts are baked, making them a lighter and healthier option compared to their fried counterparts.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
• Servings: 12 donuts
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-180 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 2g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 5g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 2 lemons)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup buttermilk
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Lemon Glaze:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon milk (or more to reach desired consistency)

Ingredient Highlights

• Lemon Zest: The zest adds a vibrant lemon flavor without being overly tart, giving the donuts a refreshing citrusy taste.
• Buttermilk: Buttermilk makes these donuts tender and moist, contributing to their soft, fluffy texture.
• Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is used both in the batter and in the glaze to infuse a tangy brightness.
• Butter: The melted butter provides richness and ensures the donuts have a delicate crumb.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze:

Prepare the Donut Batter:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan with cooking spray or lightly oil it to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the donuts dense.
5. Fill the Donut Pan: Spoon or pipe the batter into the donut pan, filling each well about ¾ full.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a donut comes out clean.
7. Cool: Let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Lemon Glaze:

8. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add a little more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
9. Glaze the Donuts: Once the donuts are completely cool, dip the tops of each donut into the glaze, allowing the excess to drip off. Set the glazed donuts on a wire rack to let the glaze set.

How to Serve Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze

Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze are a versatile treat that can be served in many ways:

• For Breakfast or Brunch: These donuts make a light and refreshing breakfast option, perfect alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea.
• As an Afternoon Snack: Enjoy one with a glass of lemonade or iced tea for a sweet, citrusy pick-me-up.
• For Special Occasions: Serve them on a dessert table at a party or celebration for a tangy, delightful treat.
• For Gifting: Package these donuts in a cute box or bag for a homemade gift that’s sure to impress.

Additional Tips for Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze

Here are some tips to ensure your Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze are perfect every time:

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Stir the batter just until combined to ensure the donuts stay light and airy.
• Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the most vibrant flavor, making these donuts extra citrusy.
• Check for Doneness: Test the donuts by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the donuts are ready to come out of the oven.
• Cool Completely Before Glazing: Make sure the donuts are completely cool before glazing, so the glaze doesn’t melt and slide off.
• Adjust the Glaze Consistency: If you prefer a thicker glaze, reduce the amount of milk. If you like a thinner glaze, add a little more milk.

Recipe Variations for Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze

Here are 10 variations you can try for Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze:

• Blueberry Lemon Donuts: Add fresh or frozen blueberries to the batter for a fruity twist.
• Lemon Poppy Seed Donuts: Stir in a tablespoon of poppy seeds for a classic lemon poppy seed flavor.
• Coconut Lemon Donuts: Add shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist.
• Lemon Raspberry Donuts: Fill the donuts with a spoonful of raspberry jam before baking for a burst of fruity flavor.
• Gluten-Free Lemon Donuts: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these donuts gluten-free.
• Lemon Chia Seed Donuts: Incorporate chia seeds into the batter for extra texture and a healthy boost.
• Lemon Ginger Donuts: Add a teaspoon of ground ginger to the batter for a warm, spicy kick.
• Lemon Earl Grey Donuts: Steep some Earl Grey tea in the buttermilk to add a subtle, fragrant flavor to the donuts.
• Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze: Swap the powdered sugar glaze for a cream cheese-based glaze for a richer, tangier topping.
• Chocolate-Dipped Lemon Donuts: After glazing, dip the bottoms of the donuts in melted dark chocolate for a sweet contrast.

Freezing and Storage for Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze

• Freezing: These donuts freeze beautifully. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and glaze before serving.
• Storage: Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer freshness, store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Special Equipment for Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze easier:

• Donut Pan: A donut pan is essential for shaping the donuts and baking them evenly.
• Mixing Bowls: Use a large bowl for mixing the dry ingredients and a separate bowl for the wet ingredients.
• Whisk: A whisk is perfect for combining the glaze ingredients smoothly.
• Piping Bag or Spoon: Use a piping bag or spoon to fill the donut pan with batter for neat and even donuts.
• Wire Rack: A cooling rack allows the donuts to cool evenly and prevents them from becoming soggy.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions for Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze

1. Can I make these donuts without a donut pan?
   Yes, you can use a muffin tin instead of a donut pan, but the shape will be different. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly.
2. Can I make these donuts ahead of time?
   Yes, you can bake the donuts a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Glaze them right before serving.
3. Can I use lemon extract instead of fresh lemons?
   Yes, you can use lemon extract, but fresh lemon zest and juice will provide a more vibrant and natural flavor.
4. Can I make the glaze without milk?
   Yes, if you prefer a thicker glaze, you can omit the milk or use a different liquid like water or lemon juice for consistency.

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Conclusion

Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze are a light, refreshing treat that combines the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Their soft, airy texture and bright citrus notes make them a delightful choice for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast or gifting them to friends, these baked donuts are sure to become a favorite. With a simple recipe and a delicious glaze, you can enjoy the taste of lemon in every bite.

This recipe is as easy to make as it is delicious, making it perfect for everything from casual brunches to thoughtful homemade gifts. Whether you’re serving them at a get-together or enjoying them yourself, these donuts bring a zesty, cheerful touch to any moment.

I’d love to see how your Baked Lemon Donuts turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!