Baked Lemon Donuts

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that perfectly balances zesty lemon flavor with a soft and tender texture, look no further than these Baked Lemon Donuts. They are incredibly easy to make and require only simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. With the sweet brightness of lemon and a hint of vanilla from yogurt, these donuts will brighten your day and perhaps even your weekend brunch.

There’s something magical about donuts. They are fun to make, easy to customize, and perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!). These baked lemon donuts are not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to their fried counterparts. The best part? You get to enjoy them warm from the oven, fresh and full of flavor.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

You may wonder what sets these Baked Lemon Donuts apart. Well, here are a few reasons! Firstly, they are baked, meaning they require less oil and are lighter than traditional fried donuts. Secondly, the significant use of vanilla yogurt not only adds moisture but also contributes a lovely richness to the donuts, making them irresistibly soft. Lastly, fresh lemon juice and zest elevate these treats, creating a refreshing and vibrant flavor that will have you reaching for seconds.

Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy donut with a burst of lemon flavor. These donuts are perfect for brunch, a snack throughout the day, or as a sweet ending to any meal. Trust us; they won’t last long!

Ingredients

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 ½ cups vanilla yogurt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Make sure to gather all your ingredients before you begin. This will not only streamline your process but also ensure you don’t miss anything essential while whisking away in the joy of donut-making!

How To Make Baked Lemon Donuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your donuts will bake evenly and come out perfect every time. Don’t forget to lightly grease your donut pan or use a silicone donut mold, which makes removing the donuts a breeze!

Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar. Stir until smooth and lovely, and then add in the egg. Whisk the mixture until it’s creamy and well combined. Next, incorporate the vanilla yogurt, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix these ingredients until they create a luscious, silky batter.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This step helps ensure that the baking soda is evenly distributed throughout the flour, preventing any clumps from forming in your donuts.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture. Gently fold the two together until just combined; be careful not to overmix! A few small lumps are perfectly fine. The goal here is to create a batter that is thick yet smooth and ready for the donut pan.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Spoon the batter into your prepared donut pan using a piping bag or a zip-top bag with one corner snipped off. Fill each cavity about two-thirds full to allow room for rising as they bake.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts

Place the donut pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 12–15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be careful not to overbake; you want these donuts to remain moist and tender!

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy!

Once baked, allow the donuts to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Let them cool completely before serving or glazing. You can sprinkle them with powdered sugar or a simple lemon glaze if you’d like!

Expert Tips

• For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest; it makes a noticeable difference!
• Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for a well-blended batter.
• If you do not have vanilla yogurt, plain yogurt or Greek yogurt will work just fine.
• When measuring flour, spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy.

Variations and Customizations

• Add poppy seeds for a delightful crunch and a classic flavor pairing!
• Drizzle a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice over the cooled donuts.
• Incorporate blueberries or raspberries into the batter for added fruitiness and color.
• For a decadent touch, add a cream cheese frosting on top for a sweet and tangy finish.

How to Store Leftovers

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 keep them longer, consider freezing them. Simply place the cooled donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet in the freezer until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back that fresh-from-the-oven warmth!

FAQ

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes! You can experiment with whole wheat flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour, but the texture may vary slightly.

Can I make these donuts ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before baking.

What can I use instead of butter?

You can substitute melted coconut oil, vegetable oil, or even applesauce for a lighter option; however, it may slightly change the flavor and texture.

Are these donuts suitable for kids?

Definitely! These baked lemon donuts are a fantastic treat for kids, with their sweet flavor and fun shape. Plus, they can help with mixing and decorating!

Conclusion

Baking can be a wonderful experience, especially when you’re creating something so delicious. These Baked Lemon Donuts combine simple ingredients into a delightful treat that’s bursting with flavor. They’re perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a cheerful addition to any gathering. With their fluffy texture, zesty notes, and the joy of baking, these donuts will surely become a favorite in your home. So preheat your oven, grab those ingredients, and enjoy the bright, delicious world of homemade lemon donuts! Happy baking!