Are you craving the irresistible taste of cake doughnuts but want a healthier, less messy option? Then this baked cake doughnut recipe is for you! Forget greasy frying; these delightful treats achieve the perfect fluffy texture and sweet flavor without the guilt. They're incredibly easy to make, perfect for a weekend baking project, or a quick and delicious weeknight dessert. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meal options.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
Equipment:
- Two 6-cup standard muffin tins
- Mixer (handheld or stand)
- Spatula
- Doughnut pan (optional, for shaping)
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two standard muffin tins. If using a doughnut pan, grease and flour that as well.
Make the Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; don't overmix.
Bake the Doughnuts: Fill each muffin cup about ¾ full. If using a doughnut pan, fill each mold about halfway. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Decorate: Let the doughnuts cool in the tins for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, unleash your creativity! Dust them with powdered sugar, drizzle with a simple glaze (powdered sugar mixed with milk or lemon juice), or get fancy with chocolate ganache and sprinkles.
Tips for Perfect Baked Cake Doughnuts:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough doughnuts. Mix until just combined.
- Use fresh baking powder and soda: Old baking powder and soda can lead to flat doughnuts.
- Let the doughnuts cool completely: This prevents the glaze or icing from melting.
- Experiment with flavors: Add cocoa powder for chocolate doughnuts, cinnamon for spiced doughnuts, or extracts like almond or lemon for unique twists.
Variations:
- Glazed Cake Doughnuts: Mix powdered sugar with milk or lemon juice to create a simple glaze. Add a pinch of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
- Chocolate Cake Doughnuts: Add ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
- Sprinkled Cake Doughnuts: Toss cooled doughnuts in sprinkles for a festive touch.
Nutritional Information (per doughnut, approximate):
- Calories: Around 200-250
- Fat: 8-10g
- Protein: 3-4g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Sugar: 15-20g
These delicious baked cake doughnuts are a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest. They're a simple yet satisfying treat that's sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy! They’re ideal for quick dinner ideas, or even a healthy alternative to other less nutritious sweet treats. These are truly some of the best recipes for a simple, yet delicious baked good.