Today’s the day we turn your kitchen into a donut paradise. These baked donuts are so light and fluffy, you’ll forget they’re not fried. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or that 3 pm slump.
Why This Recipe Works
- Uses simple, pantry-staple ingredients for ease and accessibility.
- Baking instead of frying means less mess and a healthier treat.
- The dough is forgiving, making it perfect for beginners and experts alike.
- Customizable with endless topping and glaze options to suit any taste.
- Quick prep time means you’re never more than 30 minutes away from fresh donuts.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup milk
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Equipment Needed
- Donut pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Piping bag or ziplock bag
Instructions
Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease your donut pan. This ensures your donuts will pop out easily after baking. Tip: Use a pastry brush for even greasing.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the leavening agents, ensuring your donuts rise perfectly.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Tip: Overmixing can lead to tough donuts, so stop when you see no more flour streaks.
Fill the Donut Pan
Transfer the batter to a piping bag or ziplock bag with a corner snipped off. Pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each mold about 2/3 full. This method gives you the most uniform donuts.
Bake to Perfection
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when lightly touched. Let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Tip: For extra flavor, brush the warm donuts with melted butter and dip in cinnamon sugar.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate their donut game, consider these advanced tips. First, sifting your dry ingredients can make your donuts even lighter. Second, letting the batter rest for 10 minutes before baking can improve texture. Third, experimenting with different flours, like cake flour, can yield interesting results. Lastly, don’t be afraid to play with flavors by adding citrus zest or spices to the batter.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Glazed: Dip cooled donuts in a mixture of melted chocolate and a splash of cream.
- Maple Bacon: Drizzle with maple glaze and top with crispy bacon bits.
- Lemon Poppyseed: Add lemon zest and poppyseeds to the batter, then glaze with lemon icing.
- Red Velvet: Mix cocoa powder and red food coloring into the batter, top with cream cheese glaze.
- Stuffed Donuts: Fill with jam or custard after baking for a surprise inside.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these donuts without a donut pan? Yes, you can shape the dough into balls and bake them as donut holes, or use a muffin tin for a similar effect, though the shape will be different.
How do I store leftover donuts? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them and reheat in the microwave when ready to eat.
Can I make the batter ahead of time? It’s best to bake the donuts immediately after making the batter to ensure they rise properly. However, you can prepare the dry and wet ingredients separately the night before and combine them in the morning.
Summary
This baked donut recipe is your ticket to delicious, homemade donuts with minimal fuss. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with variations, you’re in for a treat. Happy baking!