Are you craving the irresistible taste of donuts but want a healthier, less messy alternative to frying? Then you're in the right place! This recipe for baked buttermilk donuts delivers all the fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of your favorite treat, without the guilt. These easy recipes are perfect for a weekend baking project, a delicious breakfast, or a satisfying afternoon snack. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this simple, yet incredibly rewarding recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 ¼ cups buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Glaze (optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-4 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan generously with nonstick cooking spray or baking spray. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can result in tough donuts.
Step 4: Fill the Donut Pan
Fill each donut cup about ¾ full.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Make the Glaze (Optional)
While the donuts are cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the amount of milk to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 7: Glaze the Donuts
Once the donuts are completely cool, dip the tops in the glaze. You can also drizzle the glaze over the donuts for a more rustic look.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Baked Donuts:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough donuts. Mix until just combined.
- Grease the pan well: This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of the donuts.
- Check for doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the donuts are baked through. If it comes out clean, they're ready.
- Cool completely before glazing: Glazing warm donuts will cause the glaze to melt and become sticky.
Variations:
- Chocolate Donuts: Add ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
- Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: Sprinkle the cooled donuts with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar.
- Glaze Variations: Experiment with different glazes, such as lemon glaze, chocolate glaze, or even a cream cheese glaze.
Nutritional Information (per donut, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on glaze and ingredients used)
This baked buttermilk donut recipe is a delicious and healthier alternative to fried donuts. It's a quick dinner idea or a perfect treat for any occasion! Enjoy the delightful taste of these homemade donuts, and remember to share your baking creations with friends and family. They're sure to be a hit!