Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts

Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts are the perfect blend of soft texture and zesty flavor. These delightful treats are ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack throughout the day. The unique lemon-infused sugar coating sets them apart, making them a refreshing choice for any occasion. Whether it’s a sunny spring afternoon or an inviting get-together, these donuts will surely impress your guests and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 10 minutes to prepare and 12 minutes to bake, making it perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
• Fluffy Texture: The combination of baking powder and baking soda ensures that each donut is light and airy, giving you that satisfying bite.
• Zesty Flavor: Fresh lemon juice and zest provide a vibrant flavor that brightens your taste buds, setting this dessert apart from traditional donuts.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy these donuts as a breakfast option, an afternoon snack, or even as a dessert at parties. They fit perfectly into any occasion!
• Easy Coating: Rolling the donuts in lemon-infused sugar adds a simple yet delicious touch without the need for complicated frosting.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delightful world of Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Donut pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Piping bag (optional)
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Donut pan: Ensures your donuts keep their shape while baking, providing that classic donut look.
• Mixing bowls: Different sizes help keep your wet and dry ingredients separate until it’s time to combine them.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing ingredients quickly and thoroughly, ensuring a smooth batter.
• Wire rack: Allows donuts to cool evenly after baking, preventing sogginess.

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Ingredients

Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts are soft, fluffy treats with a zesty lemon flavor and a slightly crisp exterior, coated in lemon-infused sugar for a refreshing twist on a classic baked dessert.

Dry Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup whole milk (or milk substitute)
• ⅓ cup melted butter (or oil for dairy-free)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Coating Ingredients

• ½ cup granulated sugar (for coating)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (for coating)

How to Make Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your donut pan.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together the eggs, milk (or milk substitute), melted butter (or oil), lemon zest, and freshly squeezed lemon juice until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

1. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients.
2. Gently fold until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Fill Donut Pan

1. Using either a piping bag or spoon, fill each cavity of the donut pan about ⅔ full with batter.

Step 6: Bake Donuts

1. Place in the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes.
2. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean when done.

Step 7: Prepare Sugar Coating

While the donuts are baking:
1. In a small bowl, mix together ½ cup granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon lemon zest for coating.

Step 8: Cool Down

1. Allow donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 9: Roll in Lemon Sugar Coating

Once they are cool enough to handle:
1. Roll each donut carefully in the lemon sugar mixture until well covered.

Enjoy your homemade Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts fresh out of the oven!

How to Serve Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts

Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts are delightful on their own, but you can enhance the experience with some creative serving suggestions. Here are a few ideas to elevate your donut enjoyment.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve the donuts alongside a mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a burst of flavor and color.

Drizzled with Lemon Glaze

• Create a simple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with lemon juice, then drizzle it over the donuts for an extra sweet and tangy touch.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream adds creaminess that complements the zesty lemon flavor beautifully.

Paired with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these delicious donuts with a warm cup of coffee or tea to balance their sweetness while enhancing your breakfast or snack time.

Garnished with Mint Leaves

• Add a sprig of fresh mint as a garnish for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the donuts.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Include them in a brunch spread along with other pastries, fruits, and beverages for a festive gathering option.

How to Perfect Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts

To ensure your Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh lemons for zest and juice to maximize the flavor in your donuts.

• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts instead of light and fluffy ones.

• Check Your Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary in temperature. Use an oven thermometer to verify that yours is set correctly at 350°F (175°C).

• Cool Before Coating: Let the donuts cool slightly before rolling them in lemon sugar; this helps the coating stick better.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other flavors like vanilla or almond extract for an extra layer of taste!

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts

Pairing side dishes with your Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts can create a well-rounded meal or snack. Here are some great options:

1. Greek Yogurt: A creamy yogurt topped with honey and nuts complements the sweetness while adding protein.

2. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the donuts nicely.

3. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with fruits provides a hearty option alongside your sweet treats.

4. Nut Butter Toast: Whole-grain toast spread with almond or peanut butter offers healthy fats and protein for energy.

5. Smoothie: A refreshing smoothie made with spinach, banana, and almond milk is perfect for a nutritious pairing.

6. Granola Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries in a glass for a visually appealing side dish that harmonizes well with lemon flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Ignoring Ingredient Temperature: Using cold eggs or milk can lead to uneven mixing. Always let them come to room temperature for better incorporation.
• Overmixing the Batter: This can result in tough donuts. Mix until just combined for a light, airy texture.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Skipping this step can cause uneven baking. Make sure your oven is fully heated before placing the donuts inside.
• Using Incorrect Pan Size: Donut pans come in various sizes. Ensure you’re using the right size to avoid undercooked or overcooked donuts.
• Skipping the Coating: The lemon sugar coating is what gives these donuts their unique flavor. Don’t forget this essential step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.

Freezing Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Wrap each donut individually for best results.

Reheating Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one donut at a time on medium power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid, and warm for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly, making them denser.

How do I make Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts vegan?

You can replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk and oil instead of butter.

What if I don’t have a donut pan?

You can use a muffin tin instead! Just fill it slightly more than halfway and adjust the baking time accordingly.

How do I know when my donuts are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they’re ready!

Final Thoughts

Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts are delightful treats perfect for any occasion. Their bright lemon flavor paired with the sugary coating makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize by adding sprinkles or drizzling with glaze. Enjoy experimenting with these donuts!