Baked Donuts Recipe – glassika recipes

Baked Donuts Recipe: A Delightful Treat for Every Occasion

Donuts are universally loved for their soft, pillowy texture and sweet, satisfying taste. With this Baked Donuts Recipe, you can skip the deep frying and enjoy a healthier version of this classic treat. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these baked donuts are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite fillings and toppings. Let’s dive into the recipe and create something irresistibly delicious!

Introduction

Baked donuts offer a lighter alternative to traditional fried donuts without compromising flavor or texture. Made with simple pantry staples, these donuts are golden, fluffy, and irresistibly sweet. Whether filled with jelly or enjoyed plain, they are sure to become a family favorite. Plus, baking donuts at home is both fun and rewarding, making it a great activity for any weekend morning.

Ingredients for Baked Donuts

To prepare these mouthwatering Baked Donuts, gather the following ingredients:

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (divided, plus more for dusting)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 tsp salt
2 1/4 tsp instant yeast (quick acting, 1 packet = 7 grams)
2/3 cup warm milk (110˚F, microwave 35 sec.)
4 Tbsp unsalted butter (melted, divided)
2 egg yolks
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/3 cup jelly or jam (without large fruit pieces)
1/3 cup granulated sugar (to roll donuts)

These simple ingredients come together to create a deliciously soft dough, perfect for baking into golden donuts.

Step-by-Step Directions

Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour, 1/4 cup sugar, yeast, and salt. Add warm milk, 3 tablespoons melted butter, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Whisk well until combined.
Rest the Dough: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the mixture rest at room temperature for 10 minutes. During this time, bubbles should form, indicating the yeast is active.
Knead the Dough: Add the remaining flour to the mixture and knead the dough for 5 minutes. You can do this in the bowl to avoid making a mess.
First Rise: Cover the bowl again and let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size. This takes about 45 minutes in a 100˚F oven or 1 1/2 hours at room temperature.
Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 375˚F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to a thickness of 1/2 inch. Use a 2 1/2-inch round cutter to cut out donut shapes, re-rolling scraps as needed.
Second Rise: Arrange the cut dough circles on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a towel and let rise again until slightly puffy, about 20 minutes.
Bake the Donuts: Bake the donuts in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden on top. Be careful not to overbake, as this can dry out the donuts.
Finish the Donuts: Brush the warm donuts with the remaining melted butter and roll them in granulated sugar for a classic touch. Using a piping bag or a small spoon, fill the donuts with your favorite jelly or jam.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Baked Donuts

Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid adding too much flour, which can make the donuts dense.
Keep Dough Warm: For the dough to rise properly, keep it in a warm, draft-free environment.
Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the donuts while baking to ensure they stay soft and fluffy.

Customizing Your Baked Donuts

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can customize these donuts in countless ways to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas:

Glazed Donuts: Dip the cooled donuts in a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk for a classic look.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some dark or white chocolate and drizzle it over the donuts for a decadent treat.
Sprinkles: Add a fun, colorful touch by sprinkling the donuts with your favorite toppings while the glaze is still wet.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Baked Donuts with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast. They also pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a fruit smoothie for a satisfying snack. For special occasions, arrange the donuts on a decorative platter and let your guests pick their favorite fillings and toppings.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 210
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 100mg
Sugar: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Vitamin A: 4%
Calcium: 4%
Iron: 6%

These baked donuts provide a balance of indulgence and lightness, making them a guilt-free treat you can enjoy any time.

Storage and Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.

Freeze: Unfilled donuts can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature and warm them slightly in the oven before serving.

Reheat: Warm the donuts in a 350˚F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore their softness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use whole milk instead of 2% milk? Yes, whole milk works perfectly in this recipe and will make the donuts slightly richer.

What if I don’t have a round cutter? Use a drinking glass or a mason jar lid to cut out the donuts.

Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough, let it rise, and then refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before rolling and cutting.

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Conclusion

This Baked Donuts Recipe offers a fun and easy way to enjoy a classic treat in a healthier form. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, these donuts are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, you’ll love how soft, fluffy, and delicious these baked donuts are. Try them today and savor the sweet, homemade goodness!