Easy Lemon Glazed Donuts

There’s something about a fresh donut that feels like pure comfort. The thought of biting into a soft, fluffy donut, still warm from the oven, coated in a zesty lemon glaze is simply irresistible. Easy Lemon Glazed Donuts offer that delightful experience without the need for complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with family, these donuts bring a smile to every face.

At the heart of this recipe are ingredients like light all-purpose flour, silky buttermilk, and vibrant lemon zest. The combination of 1 cup of flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and a touch of baking powder creates a base that’s both tender and light. Meanwhile, the bright flavors from the lemon zest and lemon juice perfectly complement the sweetness, resulting in a delicious balance. These elements meld into a delightful treat that feels familiar yet special.

The method for these donuts is as straightforward as it gets. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a donut pan to prepare for the magic. You’ll mix the dry ingredients separately from the moist ones, and then bring them together gently. After pouring the batter into the donut pan, just wait 10 to 12 minutes for those fluffy donuts to bake to perfection. A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice adds a finishing touch that makes these treats really shine.

These donuts are perfect for a cozy breakfast with loved ones, a snack during chilly afternoons, or even for celebrating a special occasion. Imagine serving them at a weekend brunch, or bringing them to a potluck—everyone will appreciate the thoughtful touch and delicious flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Lemon Glazed Donuts

• Quick to Prepare: In just over 30 minutes, you can enjoy warm donuts straight from the oven.
• Simple Ingredients: All you need are basic pantry staples, making this an accessible recipe for everyone.
• Comfort Food: With a fluffy texture and a hint of tartness, these donuts offer a delightful and comforting treat.
• Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even a sweet afternoon snack.
• Homemade Goodness: The homemade glaze adds a personal touch that store-bought versions can’t compete with.

All-Purpose Flour Tips

When choosing all-purpose flour, aim for a good-quality brand. It should have a fine, powdery texture for the best baking results. Look for flour that’s fresh and has been stored properly; old flour can lose its leavening power. If you’re sensitive to gluten or need a lighter touch, consider using cake flour, which has a lower protein content and creates an even softer donut. Remember, sifting the flour before measuring can ensure accuracy and yield a lighter product.

Options for Substitutions

• Substitute whole wheat flour for a heartier flavor.
• Use almond milk or any plant-based milk instead of buttermilk for dairy-free options.
• Swap coconut oil for melted butter for a different richness.
• Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a lower-glycemic alternative.
• Consider Greek yogurt in place of buttermilk for added protein and creaminess.
• For an egg-free version, use 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce instead of the egg.

Watch Out for These Mistakes

One common pitfall is overmixing the batter. You want to combine the wet and dry ingredients gently and only until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough donuts.

Another mistake is not greasing the donut pan adequately. If the pan is not well-greased, your donuts might stick, making them difficult to remove and losing their beautiful shape.

Be sure to check the baking time closely. Donuts can go from perfectly baked to overcooked in just a minute—check them at the 10-minute mark.

Lastly, make sure your oven is preheated properly before placing the donuts inside. An oven that’s too cold can result in denser donuts that don’t rise well.

What to Serve With Easy Lemon Glazed Donuts?

These donuts pair beautifully with a few side offerings. Consider serving them alongside a fresh fruit salad, which adds a refreshing touch to complement the sweetness. A cup of hot coffee or tea also works wonderfully, enhancing the flavors of the lemon. For something a little heartier, bacon or sausage can balance the sweetness of the donuts, providing a satisfying meal option.

Storage Instructions

Store: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness.

Freeze: If you want to enjoy them later, these donuts can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are cooled completely and packed well to prevent freezer burn.

Reheat: For best results, reheat in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds or place them in a toaster oven until warm.

Recipe Info

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 20-22 minutes
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Servings: Makes about 6-8 donuts, depending on the size of your pan.

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):

• Calories: 540-600
• Protein: 8-10g
• Fat: 20-22g
• Carbohydrates: 80-90g

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 large egg
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp lemon juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prep Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, grease your donut pan thoroughly to ensure that the donuts come out easily after baking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure to break up any lumps and combine everything well.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, egg, and lemon zest until they are fully combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gently mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients using a spatula or a wooden spoon. Stir until just combined; it’s okay if there are a few lumps left. Avoid overmixing.

Step 5: Fill Donut Pan and Bake

Pour the batter into the greased donut pan, filling each cavity about two-thirds full. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Glaze

Once baked, let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before carefully removing them. For the glaze, mix the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Dip the tops of the cooled donuts in the glaze and allow them to set before serving.

Conclusion

These Easy Lemon Glazed Donuts are sure to brighten your day and make moments with family and friends even sweeter. They are quick to prepare, packed with bright flavor, and don’t require any advanced baking skills. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and give this delightful recipe a try! I would love to hear how they turn out, or if you have any variations or experiences to share.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat or gluten-free flour for all-purpose flour. However, this may change the texture slightly.

How can I make these donuts lower in sugar?

You can reduce the amount of sugar in the batter and glaze to your preference. Consider using a sugar substitute that measures like sugar for a healthier option.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

While it’s best to bake these donuts fresh, you can prepare the dry ingredients ahead and mix in the wet ingredients just before baking for the best texture.

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