Baked Donuts Recipe

Is there anything better than a warm, freshly baked donut? These baked vanilla-glazed donuts are incredibly easy to make. All you need are mixing bowls, an egg beater, and a donut tray. If you don’t have one, it’s time to get one ASAP! You can have a fresh donut baked in less than 20 minutes, and it’s healthier than fried ones. Plus, they’re so pretty, they’ll surely bring a smile to your face!

I like to use a pastry bag to pour the mixture into the donut tray, but you can also use a spoon or a ziplock bag. Cut a hole in one of the corners and squeeze the mixture into the pan. Be careful not to overfill the cavities of the pan, or the holes in the center will close up.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked donut recipe is a game-changer. It’s quick, easy, and requires minimal equipment. You’ll love the fluffy texture and delightful vanilla flavor. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, making them a healthier option for satisfying your donut cravings.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Egg beater
• Donut tray
• Pastry bag or ziplock bag
• Whisk
• Cookie cutter
• Baking tray
• Parchment paper

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour, divided, plus extra for dusting
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (1 sachet = 7 grams)
• 2/3 cup warm milk (110°F – microwave for 36 seconds)
• 4 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, divided
• 2 egg yolks
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup jelly or jam (without large fruit pieces)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar for rolling the donuts

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, instant yeast, and salt.
2. Add the warm milk, 3 tablespoons of melted butter, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes, until bubbles form on the surface.
4. Add the remaining 1 1/2 cups of flour gradually, just until the dough holds together and doesn’t stick to the sides of the bowl. Knead in the bowl for about 5 minutes.
5. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle a little flour and continue kneading with clean, dry hands. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a 100°F oven for 45 minutes or at room temperature for 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and preheat the oven to 375°F with a rack in the center.
7. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and roll it out to about 1/2 inch thick. Use a 2 1/2-inch round cookie cutter to cut out circles. Re-roll scraps if necessary to make 12 donuts.
8. Place the donuts on the prepared baking tray, cover with a tea towel, and let them rise in a 100°F oven for 20 minutes or at room temperature for 45 minutes, or until puffed.
9. Bake in the center of the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until slightly golden.
10. Right out of the oven, brush the warm donuts with the remaining 1 tablespoon of melted butter and roll them in sugar to coat.
11. Cut a deep slit in the side of each donut and pipe jam into each one using a pastry bag.

Tips for Success

Ensure your milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly. Don’t skip the rising times, as they are essential for the donuts’ fluffy texture. Be gentle when rolling and cutting the dough to maintain its lightness.

Additional Tips and Variations

Try experimenting with different fillings like chocolate or custard. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a spiced flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

These baked donuts are a lighter alternative to traditional fried donuts, with reduced fat content. Each serving is approximately 150 calories.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, but the texture will be denser.
• How do I store these donuts? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Can I freeze these donuts? Yes, freeze them before filling with jam, and add the filling after thawing.

Conclusion

These baked donuts are a delightful treat that you can whip up in no time. I invite you to try this recipe and share your experiences. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of biting into a homemade donut. Enjoy!