Baked Lemon Donuts: A Zesty Delight

Brighten your day with these delightful Baked Lemon Donuts! Bursting with tangy lemon flavor and light as a feather, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat. Made with simple ingredients and baked to golden perfection, these donuts are an easy way to enjoy a taste of citrus bliss without the guilt of frying.

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Ingredients and Preparation

To make these Baked Lemon Donuts, you’ll need a handful of basic ingredients:

• All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup of all-purpose flour provides the structure for these donuts.
• Sugar: 1/2 cup of granulated sugar adds sweetness to balance the tartness of the lemon.
• Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon helps the donuts rise and become fluffy.
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Buttermilk: 1/2 cup of buttermilk adds a slight tang and keeps the donuts tender.
• Egg: 1 large egg provides structure and moisture.
• Melted Butter: 2 tablespoons of melted butter adds richness and flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract complements the lemon and adds depth.
• Lemon Zest and Juice: The zest of 1 lemon and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice provide the vibrant lemon flavor that makes these donuts stand out.

Directions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan to ensure the donuts come out easily.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. This mixture will form the base of your donut batter.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix 1/2 cup of buttermilk, 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, the zest of 1 lemon, and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. Ensure these ingredients are well combined for a smooth batter.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the donuts dense.
5. Fill the Donut Pan: Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each mold about 2/3 full. This allows room for the donuts to rise without overflowing.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the donuts are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Remove: Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set and makes them easier to handle.

Tips for Success

• Lemon Glaze: For an extra touch of sweetness and lemon flavor, you can make a lemon glaze. Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled donuts.
• Freezing: These donuts freeze well, making them a convenient option for busy mornings. Just warm them up in the microwave for a quick treat.
• Donut Pan: If you don’t have a donut pan, you can use a mini muffin tin for donut holes, though the baking time may need to be adjusted.

Nutrition and Serving

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 10-12 minutes

Enjoy these homemade Baked Lemon Donuts with a cup of coffee or tea for a refreshing and satisfying snack. Their light, fluffy texture and bright lemon flavor are sure to be a hit with everyone. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just treating yourself, these donuts are a delightful way to add a bit of sunshine to your day. Enjoy every zesty bite!