Baked Lemon Blueberry Doughnuts

Baked Lemon Blueberry Doughnuts are a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion. These doughnuts are fresh, moist, and bursting with flavor. They are simple to make and can be enjoyed as a sweet breakfast or a light dessert. With their bright lemony taste and juicy blueberries, they capture the essence of spring in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: You don’t need advanced baking skills. This recipe is straightforward, making it great for bakers of all levels.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lemon zest and fresh blueberries creates a refreshing taste that will brighten your day.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s brunch, a picnic, or dessert, these doughnuts fit right in.
• Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, these doughnuts offer a lighter alternative without sacrificing taste.
• Makes Plenty: This recipe yields 14 doughnuts, so there’s enough to share—or keep for yourself!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of Baked Lemon Blueberry Doughnuts, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Donut pans
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Piping bag or zip-top bag
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Donut pans: These are essential for shaping your doughnuts perfectly. They ensure even baking and help maintain the classic donut shape.
• Mixing bowls: A good set of mixing bowls allows you to combine ingredients easily without creating a mess.
• Whisk: This tool is perfect for blending ingredients smoothly and effectively aerating your batter.

Ingredients

For the Doughnuts

• ¾ cup granulated sugar (150g)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• ¼ cup oil
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
• 2⅔ cups all-purpose flour (350g)
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup fresh blueberries

For the Glaze

• 2 cups powdered sugar (220g)
• 7-8 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (from 2-3 lemons, divided)

How to Make Baked Lemon Blueberry Doughnuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Grease two donut pans with butter or spray them with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the sugar, melted butter, and oil. Whisk them together for about two minutes until smooth.

Step 3: Add Buttermilk Mixture

Add in the buttermilk, room temperature eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Whisk until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Incorporate the flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda into the wet mixture. Whisk until just combined; be careful not to overmix. Gently stir in the fresh blueberries; note that the batter will be thick.

Step 5: Fill Donut Pans

Spoon the batter into a large disposable piping bag or zip-top bag. Cut off the end so that it’s about ½-¾ inch wide. Pipe the batter around each donut hole until just filled since they will rise while baking.

Step 6: Bake Your Doughnuts

Bake for 7 to 8 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow them to cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy these delicious Baked Lemon Blueberry Doughnuts as a special treat that brings joy to any table!

How to Serve Baked Lemon Blueberry Doughnuts

These Baked Lemon Blueberry Doughnuts are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Glaze

• A simple lemon glaze made with powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice adds a sweet-tart contrast that perfectly complements the doughnuts.

Fresh Fruit

• Serve with a side of mixed fresh fruit, such as strawberries, raspberries, or more blueberries for extra flavor and nutrition.

Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream on top makes these doughnuts feel indulgent, perfect for special occasions or breakfast in bed.

Coffee or Tea

• Pair your doughnuts with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the drink enhances the bright flavors of the lemon and blueberry.

Ice Cream

• For a dessert twist, serve these doughnuts warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream; the creaminess pairs beautifully.

How to Perfect Baked Lemon Blueberry Doughnuts

Perfecting your Baked Lemon Blueberry Doughnuts is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use Fresh Blueberries: Fresh blueberries will provide better flavor and texture compared to frozen ones. Make sure they are plump and ripe!

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can result in dense doughnuts instead of light and fluffy ones.

• Check Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary in temperature; use an oven thermometer to ensure yours is accurate for perfect baking results.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Lemon Blueberry Doughnuts

Baked Lemon Blueberry Doughnuts can shine even brighter when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some ideas to consider:

1. Greek Yogurt: Creamy Greek yogurt adds protein and balances sweetness. Try drizzling honey on top for added flavor.

2. Granola: A crunchy granola mix offers a delightful contrast to the soft doughnut texture while adding fiber and nutrients.

3. Cottage Cheese: This creamy option is packed with protein and can be topped with additional blueberries for extra fruitiness.

4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides natural sweetness and acidity that pairs well with the lemony flavor of the doughnuts.

5. Smoothie Bowl: A bright smoothie bowl filled with spinach, banana, and almond milk serves as a nutritious side that complements the donut’s flavors.

6. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts or seeds rounds out a breakfast spread nicely, making it hearty yet healthy.

7. Chia Pudding: This trendy option is not only delicious but also nutritious, offering fiber and omega-3 fatty acids alongside your sweet treat.

8. Trail Mix: A handful of trail mix gives you a crunchy snack that’s easy to prepare ahead of time, perfect for brunch gatherings!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Baked Lemon Blueberry Doughnuts can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the zest: Not adding lemon zest will make your doughnuts taste flat. Always include fresh lemon zest for that extra zing.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to dense doughnuts. Mix just until combined to keep them light and fluffy.
• Not greasing the pan: Failing to grease your doughnut pans can result in sticking. Use butter or nonstick spray for easy removal.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or buttermilk can affect the batter’s texture. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
• Ignoring baking time: Baking them too long can dry out the doughnuts. Keep an eye on them and use a toothpick to check for doneness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the doughnuts at room temperature before serving for optimal flavor.

Freezing Baked Lemon Blueberry Doughnuts

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1 hour before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating Baked Lemon Blueberry Doughnuts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 5-7 minutes. This helps retain moisture and freshness.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as they can become tough.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 3-4 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Baked Lemon Blueberry Doughnuts, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions.

Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, frozen blueberries work well too! Just fold them into the batter without thawing.

How do I know when my doughnuts are done?

Insert a toothpick into a doughnut; if it comes out clean, they’re ready!

Can I substitute buttermilk?

Yes, you can use regular milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute for buttermilk.

What toppings go well with Baked Lemon Blueberry Doughnuts?

Consider drizzling with a lemon glaze or dusting with powdered sugar for added sweetness.

How long do these doughnuts stay fresh?

When stored properly, they remain fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature or longer if frozen.

Final Thoughts

Baked Lemon Blueberry Doughnuts are perfect for any occasion and incredibly versatile! You can customize them by adding nuts or different fruits. Try this delightful recipe today and enjoy its fresh flavors!