I remember Sunday mornings as a kid, the smell of my mom's coffee brewing, and the anticipation of a special treat. While we didn't always have time for elaborate breakfasts, there was one particular morning ritual that always stuck with me: the joy of a warm, fluffy donut. As an adult, I've fallen head over heels for the homemade variety, especially these incredible **Baked Blueberry Donuts**. There's something undeniably comforting about baking a batch from scratch. It’s a simple pleasure that transforms a regular morning into something extraordinary, filling your kitchen with an aroma that promises pure happiness. This recipe brings back all those nostalgic feelings, but with the added bonus of being baked, which means less mess and a lighter indulgence. Get ready to create some delicious memories with these easy and delightful treats!
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
Healthier & Lighter
Unlike their deep-fried cousins, these **Baked Blueberry Donuts** offer a wonderfully tender, cake-like texture without the extra oil. It’s a guilt-free way to enjoy a classic treat, making them perfect for breakfast or a lighter dessert.
Quick & Easy
Forget the fuss of hot oil and proofing yeast. This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings or an impromptu craving. You'll be enjoying fresh **Baked Blueberry Donuts** in no time!
Bursting with Fresh Flavor
Each bite of these donuts delivers a delightful pop of juicy blueberries, perfectly complemented by the sweet, tangy glaze. It's a taste of summer, no matter the season, and showcases the simple beauty of fresh fruit.
Family-Friendly Fun
Baking donuts is a fantastic activity for all ages. Kids love helping to mix the batter and drizzle the glaze, making these **Baked Blueberry Donuts** a memorable treat for everyone to enjoy together.
Key Ingredient Notes
Fresh Blueberries are Best
While you can use frozen blueberries for these **Baked Blueberry Donuts**, fresh ones truly shine, offering the best texture and vibrant flavor. If using frozen, do NOT thaw them first; gently toss them with a tablespoon of flour before adding to the batter to prevent them from sinking to the bottom and discoloring the batter. This little trick ensures your **Baked Blueberry Donuts** look as good as they taste!
The Magic of Buttermilk
Buttermilk is the secret to super moist and tender **Baked Blueberry Donuts**. Its acidity reacts with the baking soda, creating a light and fluffy crumb that's irresistible. No buttermilk on hand? No problem! You can easily make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a measuring cup, then filling it with regular milk to the 1 cup line. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles – voilà, instant buttermilk!
Donut Pan is a Must
To achieve that classic donut shape without frying, a non-stick donut pan is essential. Most standard pans hold 6 donuts, so you'll likely need two or work in batches. Greasing it well ensures your **Baked Blueberry Donuts** release easily and maintain their perfect shape. If you don't have one, this is a great excuse to add a versatile baking tool to your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Guide with Pro Tips
Making **Baked Blueberry Donuts** is surprisingly simple, and with a few pro tips, you'll be a donut-making pro in no time!
Pro Tip 1: Don't Overmix
Overmixing your batter is the number one culprit for tough baked goods. For these **Baked Blueberry Donuts**, mix the wet and dry ingredients until *just* combined. A few lumps are perfectly fine; they'll disappear during baking and result in a wonderfully tender crumb.
Pro Tip 2: Fill Your Pan Smartly
For perfectly uniform and easy-to-fill donut molds, transfer your batter to a piping bag (or a large Ziploc bag with a corner snipped off). This prevents mess and ensures even distribution, giving your **Baked Blueberry Donuts** a professional look without the hassle of spoons.
Pro Tip 3: Glaze at the Right Temperature
Let your **Baked Blueberry Donuts** cool slightly on a wire rack before glazing. If they're too hot, the glaze will melt right off. If they're too cold, it won't adhere as well. Warm is just right – it allows the glaze to set beautifully without running.
Variations & Serving Suggestions
Zesty Lemon Glaze
For an extra burst of freshness, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to your glaze or substitute the milk with fresh lemon juice. This brightens the flavor of your **Baked Blueberry Donuts** beautifully, creating a delightful sweet-tart combination.
Streusel Topping
Before baking, sprinkle a simple streusel (made from flour, sugar, and cold butter) over the top of the donuts for an added crumbly texture and sweet crunch. This takes your **Baked Blueberry Donuts** to another level of indulgence, reminiscent of a coffee cake.
Spice It Up
A pinch of nutmeg or cardamom in the batter can add a warm, comforting note to your **Baked Blueberry Donuts**, especially perfect for cooler weather or a cozy morning.
Chocolate Chip Bliss
Swap out some of the blueberries for mini chocolate chips for a different kind of sweet treat. Or, combine both for a truly decadent experience! These variations make your **Baked Blueberry Donuts** adaptable to any craving.
Serving Suggestions
These **Baked Blueberry Donuts** are perfect with a hot cup of coffee, a glass of cold milk, or as part of a lavish brunch spread. They also make a wonderful dessert alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. If you're looking for another delightful lemon and blueberry treat, you absolutely must try our Divine Lemon Blueberry Crumble Cheesecake – it's pure summer bliss! And for another utterly decadent baked good, don't miss our recipe for The Ultimate Decadent Chocolate Cherry Layer Cake Recipe.
Storage Tips
Store leftover **Baked Blueberry Donuts** in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but still delicious the next day. I often use Basics Glass Food Storage containers to keep them fresh and visible on my counter, making them an easy grab-and-go snack.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Cholesterol | 45mg |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Serving Size | 1 donut |
| Sodium | 180mg |
| Sugar | 22g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 3g |
I truly hope these **Baked Blueberry Donuts** bring as much joy to your kitchen and your taste buds as they do to mine. There’s something so satisfying about creating a treat that’s both delicious and a little bit healthier, especially when it's so easy to achieve. Whether you're making them for a special occasion or just to brighten a regular Tuesday morning, they’re sure to be a hit. The taste of warm, fluffy cake, bursting with sweet blueberries, and topped with a simple glaze is pure comfort. Happy baking!
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries for Baked Blueberry Donuts?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries! The key is to not thaw them first. Gently toss the frozen blueberries with a tablespoon of flour before adding them to the batter. This helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the donuts and from bleeding their color into the batter.
How do I store leftover Baked Blueberry Donuts?
Store your leftover Baked Blueberry Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. They are best enjoyed fresh, but still delightful the next day. Avoid refrigerating them, as it can dry them out.
What if I don't have a donut pan?
A donut pan is essential for achieving the classic donut shape for baked donuts. If you don't have one, you could try baking the batter in a muffin tin to make blueberry muffins instead. The texture will be similar, though the shape will be different.
Can I make the Baked Blueberry Donuts batter ahead of time?
It's best to bake the donuts immediately after mixing the batter. The leavening agents (baking powder and baking soda) start working as soon as they are combined with the wet ingredients, so letting the batter sit for too long can result in less fluffy donuts.
Baked Blueberry Donuts
These Baked Blueberry Donuts are a delightful alternative to their fried counterparts, offering a tender, cake-like crumb bursting with fresh blueberries and topped with a simple, sweet glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a satisfying treat any time of day, they come together quickly and easily in a donut pan.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 donuts
Ingredients
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for batter)
1 large egg
½ cup buttermilk
¼ cup melted unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup fresh blueberries (or frozen, not thawed)
For the Glaze:
1 ½ cups powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons milk (or lemon juice for a zesty glaze)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cavity donut pan (or two 6-cavity pans) with non-stick spray or butter.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Make sure there are no lumps.
Step 3: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the egg, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 5: Gently fold in the fresh blueberries. If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them first; toss them directly into the batter.
Step 6: Transfer the batter to a piping bag or a large Ziploc bag with a corner snipped off. Pipe the batter evenly into the prepared donut cavities, filling each about two-thirds full.
Step 7: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the donuts are golden brown and spring back when lightly touched. A toothpick inserted into a donut should come out clean.
Step 8: Remove the donut pan from the oven and let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 9: While the donuts cool, prepare the glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk (or lemon juice), and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more sugar for a thicker glaze or more milk for a thinner glaze.
Step 10: Once the donuts are cool enough to handle but still slightly warm, dip the top of each donut into the glaze, letting any excess drip off. Place them back on the wire rack for the glaze to set. Serve your delicious **Baked Blueberry Donuts** immediately or store for later.
Notes
For best results, use fresh blueberries. If using frozen, do not thaw them first; toss them directly into the flour mixture to prevent discoloration of the batter. Do not overmix the batter to ensure light and fluffy donuts. Use a piping bag for easier and cleaner filling of the donut pan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Desserts & Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
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