Baked glazed blueberry donuts are a charming blend of classic flavors and modern convenience, offering a delightful alternative to their fried counterparts. These donuts bring a light and fluffy bite, bursting with juicy blueberries and topped with a sweet glaze that makes them utterly irresistible. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack, they provide a delightful treat suitable for any occasion. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into every detail of making these delicious donuts, from gathering the right ingredients to mastering the baking process and perfecting the glaze.
Whether you’re craving a comforting breakfast or want to impress your guests at a brunch, these donuts are sure to be a hit. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. It’s easy to make, requires no frying, and delivers the perfect balance of sweetness and fruitiness. Once you’ve perfected the art of these baked blueberry donuts, you’ll never want to buy store-bought ones again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Light and Fluffy Texture
These donuts are baked, not fried, making them lighter while still maintaining a soft, airy texture that melts in your mouth.
2. Bursting with Fresh Blueberries
Each bite offers a juicy burst of blueberries, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the glaze.
3. Easy to Make
No need for complicated techniques—just a simple batter that’s mixed together and baked to perfection.
4. Healthier Option
Since these donuts are baked, they offer a slightly healthier alternative to traditional fried donuts without sacrificing flavor.
5. Customizable
Feel free to add a dash of lemon zest or a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for an extra layer of flavor, or experiment with different toppings like sprinkles or chopped nuts.
Ingredients
For the Donuts:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides the base structure for the donuts.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to the donut batter.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the donuts rise and become light and fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – A hint of spice that complements the blueberries.
- 2/3 cup milk – Adds moisture and tenderness to the donut batter.
- 2 large eggs – Helps bind the ingredients together and adds richness.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and a soft texture to the donuts.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the donuts.
- 1 cup fresh blueberries – Bursts of juicy blueberries in every bite.
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar – Forms the base of the glaze and adds sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons milk – Helps thin out the glaze for a smooth consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a touch of vanilla flavor to the glaze.
- Fresh blueberries (optional, for topping) – For extra blueberry flavor and decoration.
Variations
- Lemon Blueberry Donuts: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a fresh citrus twist.
- Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Instead of glaze, roll your warm donuts in a cinnamon-sugar mixture for a different flavor profile.
- Chocolate Glaze: Add cocoa powder to the glaze for a chocolatey finish, or drizzle melted chocolate over the top.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a donut pan with non-stick spray or butter, ensuring each donut cavity is well-coated.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Gently fold in the fresh blueberries, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan
Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 of the way full. Smooth the tops of the batter with a spatula to ensure even baking.
Step 6: Bake the Donuts
Bake the donuts in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a donut comes out clean. The donuts should be lightly golden on top.
Step 7: Cool the Donuts
Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Prepare the Glaze
While the donuts are cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. If you’d like a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar. For a thinner glaze, add a little more milk.
Step 9: Glaze the Donuts
Once the donuts are completely cooled, dip the tops of each donut into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the glazed donuts back on the wire rack to set.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
Optional: Top the donuts with fresh blueberries for a burst of extra fruit flavor. Allow the glaze to fully set before serving.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can result in dense donuts, so stir gently until the ingredients are just combined.
- Use fresh blueberries: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh blueberries instead of frozen ones. If you must use frozen, don’t thaw them before adding them to the batter.
- Adjust the glaze consistency: If you prefer a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar, and for a thinner glaze, simply add a bit more milk.
- Donut pan alternative: If you don’t have a donut pan, you can bake these in a muffin tin and call them “blueberry muffins,” although they won’t have the classic donut shape.
How to Serve
Serve your Blueberry Glazed Donuts for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They are best eaten fresh but can be enjoyed for up to 3 days.
Freezing
To freeze, allow the donuts to cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a resealable plastic bag or airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds before glazing.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat the donuts in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, but fresh blueberries will give you the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, don’t thaw them, and be gentle when folding them into the batter.
2. Can I make the donuts without a donut pan?
You can use a muffin tin instead to make “blueberry muffins,” but the shape and texture will be different.
3. How can I make the glaze thicker?
To thicken the glaze, add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Can I substitute almond milk or other non-dairy milk?
Yes, feel free to use almond milk, oat milk, or any other non-dairy milk in place of regular milk for a dairy-free version.
5. How long do these donuts stay fresh?
The donuts will stay fresh for 1-2 days at room temperature in an airtight container.
6. Can I add other fruits to the donuts?
Yes! You can mix in raspberries, blackberries, or even diced strawberries for a fruity twist.
7. Can I make the donuts ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the donuts in advance and store them at room temperature for a couple of days. Just glaze them right before serving.
8. How do I prevent the blueberries from sinking in the batter?
Toss the blueberries in a little bit of flour before folding them into the batter. This helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking.
9. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! If you want to make more, simply double the ingredients and bake in batches.
10. Can I use a glaze with a different flavor?
Yes, feel free to experiment with flavored glazes like lemon or vanilla for a fun twist on the classic blueberry glaze.
Conclusion
These Blueberry Glazed Donuts are the perfect combination of light, fluffy texture and burst of juicy blueberries, all topped off with a sweet, creamy glaze. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a homemade treat, they are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy these donuts fresh, or make them ahead for a delightful breakfast or snack!
PrintBlueberry Glazed Donuts: A Sweet and Fluffy Delight
- Total Time: 12 donuts
- Yield: 12 donuts 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Baked Blueberry Glazed Donuts are a light, fluffy, and flavorful treat that combines the sweetness of fresh blueberries with a sweet, smooth glaze. These donuts are a delightful twist on the traditional fried variety, offering a healthier yet equally indulgent option. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a midday snack, these donuts are bursting with juicy blueberries and finished with a sugary glaze that makes them irresistible.
Ingredients
For the Donuts:
- 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or buttermilk)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (thoroughly dried)
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (or more for desired consistency)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice (optional for added zing)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan lightly or use a non-stick spray to prevent the donuts from sticking. - Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon (if using). Whisk them together to ensure they are evenly distributed. - Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined. - Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the donuts. - Add Blueberries:
Gently fold in the blueberries. If you’re using frozen blueberries, be sure to thaw them beforehand and pat them dry to prevent excess moisture in the batter. - Fill the Donut Pan:
Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full. Smooth the tops with a spatula to ensure even baking. - Bake the Donuts:
Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a donut comes out clean. The donuts should be lightly golden on the edges and firm to the touch. - Cool the Donuts:
Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. - Prepare the Glaze:
While the donuts are cooling, make the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and lemon juice (if using) until smooth and creamy. Adjust the amount of milk to reach your desired glaze consistency. - Glaze the Donuts:
Once the donuts are completely cooled, dip each one into the glaze, turning them to coat the top evenly. Place the glazed donuts back on the wire rack to let the glaze set. - Serve and Enjoy:
Once the glaze has set, your Blueberry Glazed Donuts are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them fresh, or store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Notes
- Storage: Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze unglazed donuts for up to 1 month. To enjoy, thaw and glaze before serving.
- Blueberry Variations: Fresh blueberries are preferred, but you can also use frozen blueberries. Just be sure to dry them thoroughly before adding them to the batter.
- Vegan Variation: To make these donuts vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Swap the butter for vegan butter or oil.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Baked Goods
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American