Baked Strawberry Donuts Recipe

If you are looking to brighten up your breakfast or add a burst of fruity flavor to your snack time, these Baked Strawberry Donuts are an absolute dream. Soft, tender, and bursting with real strawberry sweetness, these donuts bring together the lightness of vanilla with the luscious juiciness of fresh strawberries. The magic of sour cream in the batter ensures every bite is moist and delicate, while the homemade strawberry glaze adds the perfect amount of tangy sweetness on top. Trust me, once you try these Baked Strawberry Donuts, they’ll quickly become a beloved treat you’ll reach for again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients in this recipe are wonderfully simple yet each plays a crucial role, from the tenderizing sour cream to the vibrant fresh strawberries that bring both color and flavor. The combination of pantry staples and fresh fruit makes this recipe accessible and incredibly satisfying.

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: This forms the soft base of the donuts, providing structure without heaviness.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the donuts rise gently for a tender crumb.
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds moisture and richness, making the donuts incredibly tender.
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter while keeping it light.
• 1/4 cup oil: Keeps the donuts moist and soft after baking.
• 1 large egg: Binds everything together and provides structure.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
• 1/2 cup diced hulled fresh strawberries: Infuses the batter with juicy bursts of strawberry flavor and pretty pink flecks.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: For the sweet, smooth glaze that crowns these donuts.
• 1 large fresh strawberry (or 2 small), hulled: Pureed into the glaze for fresh strawberry intensity.
• Zest of 1/2 a lemon: Adds a bright citrus pop to the glaze, balancing sweetness beautifully.

How to Make Baked Strawberry Donuts

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350° F and lightly misting a donut pan with non-stick spray. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and kosher salt. This ensures your dry ingredients are evenly distributed, setting the stage for perfectly risen donuts.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a smaller bowl, whisk together the sour cream, granulated sugar, oil, egg, and vanilla extract. This mix creates the luscious, tender base that transforms the donuts from ordinary to extraordinary. The sour cream especially gives the batter a rich texture that bakes into moist, soft donuts.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry, Then Add Strawberries

Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the donuts tender. Next, carefully fold in the diced fresh strawberries, which will add juicy bursts and a hint of natural sweetness throughout each donut.

Step 4: Bake the Donuts

Transfer the batter evenly into your prepared donut pan, filling each cavity nearly to the top. Bake for about 14 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Once baked, let the donuts cool completely—this allows the glaze to stick beautifully later on.

Step 5: Make the Strawberry Glaze

While the donuts cool, prepare the strawberry glaze by combining powdered sugar, fresh strawberries, and lemon zest in a food processor or blender. Pulse until smooth and glossy. This glaze packs a fresh, zesty strawberry punch that perfectly complements the soft donuts.

Step 6: Glaze the Donuts

Once the donuts have cooled, generously dip or drizzle the strawberry glaze over the top of each one. Let them set briefly, and prepare to enjoy the juicy, sweet magic of these Baked Strawberry Donuts.

How to Serve Baked Strawberry Donuts

Garnishes

These donuts are delightful on their own, but garnishing can elevate your presentation and flavor. Sprinkle with freeze-dried strawberry powder for an intense fruity punch, or add a light dusting of powdered sugar for extra sweetness and a charming look. Fresh strawberry slices or tiny mint leaves also make a pretty, fresh finish that impresses guests.

Side Dishes

Pairing your Baked Strawberry Donuts with fresh fruit salad or a simple bowl of vanilla yogurt creates a well-rounded, refreshing treat. For something heartier, serve them alongside scrambled eggs or a creamy espresso latte, turning a simple snack into a satisfying brunch affair.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your donuts into a delightful dessert platter by stacking them and drizzling additional glaze in a sloppy but charming fashion. Or place each donut in a small cupcake liner for an adorable serving presentation perfect for kids or parties. You can even sandwich a spread of cream cheese or mascarpone between two donuts for a homemade strawberry donut sandwich that’s utterly irresistible.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Baked Strawberry Donuts (unlikely but possible!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for about 2 days, retaining their soft texture and sweet strawberry flavor without drying out.

Freezing

Baked Strawberry Donuts freeze beautifully. Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. This way, you always have a quick, tasty treat on hand whenever strawberry cravings strike.

Reheating

To enjoy your frozen or refrigerated donuts at their best, gently reheat them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds until they’re warmed through but not hot. This revives the softness and brightens the flavors. Avoid overheating to keep the glaze intact and the texture tender.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

While fresh strawberries add the best texture and vibrant flavor, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh aren’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before folding into the batter to avoid excess moisture.

What is the role of sour cream in the recipe?

Sour cream adds moisture and acidity that tenderize the donut batter, resulting in a softer, more cake-like texture. It also gives a slight tang that complements the sweetness of the strawberries beautifully.

Can I make these donuts gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just be sure the blend includes xanthan gum or an equivalent binder for best texture.

How do I know when the donuts are done baking?

Donuts are baked when a toothpick inserted into the thickest part comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, indicating the inside is fully cooked but still tender.

Is there a way to make the glaze less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the powdered sugar slightly or add a bit more lemon zest for tartness. You can also thin the glaze with a splash of fresh lemon juice to adjust sweetness and consistency.

Final Thoughts

These Baked Strawberry Donuts bring so much joy to the table, combining fresh fruit, tender crumb, and a luscious glaze that feels like a hug in donut form. They are just the kind of sweet treat you can enjoy any time of day, and I hope you’ll find as much happiness in making and eating them as I do sharing them with you. Give this recipe a try—you might just discover your new favorite donut!