Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts

Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts are a delightful treat that combines fluffy texture with zesty lemon flavor. Perfect for brunch, dessert, or a sweet snack, these baked donuts shine with a lemon-infused sugar coating that adds the perfect touch of sweetness. Their appealing taste and easy preparation make them suitable for various occasions, from casual family gatherings to festive celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, these donuts can be whipped up in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest infuses every bite with bright citrus notes.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion, enjoy these donuts at breakfast, as a snack, or for dessert.
• Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, these donuts are a lighter choice without sacrificing taste.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment by adding toppings like glaze or sprinkles to suit your style.

Tools and Preparation

To make Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts successfully, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Donut pan: This specialized pan helps create perfectly shaped donuts that bake evenly.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to easily mix dry and wet ingredients separately before combining.
• Whisk: A good whisk ensures that your ingredients blend thoroughly, giving your donuts a smooth batter.

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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.

For the Batter

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

For the Coating

• 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 a donut pan. This ensures your donuts don’t stick during baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:
1. Flour
2. Granulated sugar
3. Baking powder
4. Baking soda
5. Salt

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:
1. Eggs
2. Milk (or milk substitute)
3. Melted butter (or oil)
4. Lemon zest
5. Freshly squeezed lemon juice
Make sure everything is well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Gently fold until just combined; be careful not to overmix as this can affect the texture.

Step 5: Fill Donut Pan

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

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes or until lightly golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 7: Prepare Coating

While the donuts are baking, mix together:
1. Granulated sugar
2. Lemon zest for the coating.

Step 8: Cool Donuts

Once baked, cool donuts in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Coat in Lemon Sugar

Once cool enough to handle, roll each donut in the lemon sugar coating until well covered. Enjoy your delicious Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts!

How to Serve Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts

Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts are delightful on their own but can be elevated with a few serving suggestions. Here are some creative ways to enjoy these sweet treats.

Pair with Fresh Berries

• Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries make a vibrant and fresh complement to the donuts. Their tartness balances the sweetness beautifully.

Drizzle with Lemon Glaze

• A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice can add an extra zing. Just drizzle over the donuts for a glossy finish.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream adds richness to each bite. A dollop on the side or on top can enhance your experience.

Accompany with Coffee or Tea

• Pairing these donuts with a hot beverage like coffee or tea not only enhances the flavor but also creates a lovely afternoon treat.

Add a Scoop of Ice Cream

• For an indulgent dessert, serve warm donuts with a scoop of vanilla or lemon sorbet. The melting ice cream adds creaminess and contrasts nicely with the warm donut.

How to Perfect Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts

To achieve the best results when making Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and real lemons significantly improve flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined to keep your donuts fluffy.
• Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is properly calibrated; baking at the right temperature is crucial for even cooking.
• Cool Before Coating: Let the donuts cool slightly before rolling them in lemon sugar to prevent melting the coating.
• Experiment with Zest: Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon zest for a more intense citrus flavor if desired.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts

Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts are versatile enough to pair well with various side dishes. Here are some ideal companions.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides natural sweetness and complements the lemon flavor.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy contrast that balances the lightness of the donuts.
3. Granola: Crunchy granola adds texture and pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea during breakfast.
4. Citrus Salad: A salad made from assorted citrus fruits enhances the lemon theme while providing bright colors.
5. Cheese Board: Include some mild cheeses like brie to elevate your serving experience for guests.
6. Chia Pudding: This healthy option offers a creamy consistency that contrasts beautifully with the fluffy donuts.
7. Nut Butter Spread: Almond or peanut butter spread can be served on toast alongside, adding protein to your brunch table.
8. Green Smoothie: A nutritious green smoothie can balance out the sweetness of the donuts while providing a refreshing drink option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts can be simple and enjoyable, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly overmixing: Overmixing the batter can lead to dense donuts. Mix until just combined for a light texture.
• Boldly skipping the zest: The lemon zest is essential for flavor. Don’t omit it; it adds a fresh, zesty kick.
• Boldly underbaking: Undercooked donuts can be gooey inside. Ensure they are lightly golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
• Boldly using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or milk can affect the batter’s consistency. Use room temperature ingredients for better results.
• Boldly ignoring cooling time: Skipping the cooling step before coating in sugar can cause the sugar to melt. Allow them to cool briefly on a wire rack.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts

• Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts

• Boldly use the Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), then warm the donuts for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• Boldly use the Microwave: Heat one donut at a time on high for about 10-15 seconds for best results.
• Boldly use the Stovetop: Place donuts in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make my Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts fluffier?

To achieve fluffier donuts, ensure you do not overmix your batter and use fresh baking powder.

Can I substitute almond milk in Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts?

Yes, almond milk or any other milk substitute works well in this recipe without affecting the taste significantly.

What if I don’t have a donut pan?

You can use a muffin tin instead; just adjust baking time slightly as muffins may take longer than donuts.

How should I store leftover Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate them for three days.

Can I customize the flavor of my Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts?

Absolutely! You can add poppy seeds, blueberries, or change the citrus by using orange zest and juice.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts are delightful treats that bring brightness to any occasion. Their soft texture combined with zesty lemon makes them versatile enough for breakfast, dessert, or a snack. Feel free to customize these donuts by adding different flavors or toppings!