Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts Recipe

If you’ve been searching for the perfect morning treat or a delightful afternoon snack with a burst of citrus sunshine, look no further than these Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts. They combine the light, cakey texture of baked donuts with a fresh zing of lemon zest, all lovingly rolled in a sparkling coating of lemon sugar that makes each bite irresistibly bright. This recipe perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors, making these donuts a crowd-pleaser whether you’re serving up a casual brunch or surprising friends with something special. I’m so excited to share how simple and fun it is to whip up your own batch of Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but vital for that perfect flavor and texture in your Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts. Each one plays a key role in creating a moist, tender donut with a refreshing lemon kick and a delicate sugary crust.

• Flour (230 g): Provides the structure and crumb to the donuts, ensuring they are light yet sturdy enough to hold their shape.
• Sugar (90 g): Adds sweetness and helps create a fine crumb texture that’s perfect for baked goods.
• Lemon zest (1 tbsp): The superstar ingredient, delivering an aromatic citrus punch that brightens every bite.
• Baking powder (1 tsp): Gives the donuts that gentle rise and airy texture without making them heavy.
• Egg (1): Binds all ingredients together while lending richness and moisture to the batter.
• Milk (140 ml): Adds fluidity to the dough and helps keep the donuts tender.
• Melted butter (40 g): Infuses the donuts with a beautiful buttery flavor and enhances moistness.
• Coating – sugar + lemon zest: This simple mix is tossed on warm donuts to create a shimmering, citrusy finish that’s irresistibly crunchy and delicious.

How to Make Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts

Step 1: Prepare Your Batter

Start by whisking together your dry ingredients—flour, sugar, lemon zest, and baking powder—in a large bowl. In another bowl, beat the egg and then mix in the milk and melted butter until everything is combined smoothly. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry mix, stirring gently until you have a smooth, lump-free batter that’s just the right consistency to pour into your donut pan. The batter should be thick but pourable.

Step 2: Filling the Donut Pan

Lightly grease your donut molds to ensure easy removal after baking. Carefully spoon or pour the batter into each cavity, filling them about three-quarters full. This gives your donuts enough room to puff up without spilling over and keeps their classic donut shape perfectly intact.

Step 3: Baking

Preheat your oven to 180°C and bake the donuts for approximately 12 minutes, or until they turn a pale golden color and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell of lemony goodness will start to fill your kitchen, and the anticipation will be half the fun!

Step 4: Coating With Lemon Sugar

While the donuts are still warm, prepare your lemon sugar mixture by combining sugar and fresh lemon zest. Carefully roll each donut in this coating, allowing the sugar to cling to the warm surface and create a crackly, citrus-scented crust. This final touch elevates the donuts from simple to spectacular.

How to Serve Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts

Garnishes

For an extra special presentation, try topping your Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts with thin slices of candied lemon peel or a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh mint. These add a touch of elegance and amplify the zesty flavors while making your donuts look irresistible.

Side Dishes

These donuts pair beautifully with a cup of hot tea, a fresh fruit salad, or even a dollop of whipped cream if you’re feeling indulgent. A light, fruity accompaniment complements the bright notes of the lemon sugar perfectly without overpowering the delicate donut itself.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, arrange the donuts on a platter with sprigs of lavender or edible flowers scattered around. Or place them in cute mini paper bags tied with twine for a charming gift idea. You can also stack them into a donut tower for parties—it’s a playful and visually stunning way to serve these citrus delights.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. Because these donuts are delicate and best fresh, try to enjoy them within one day for the best texture and flavor.

Freezing

While these donuts are really best fresh, you can freeze them if needed. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag for up to one month. Be sure to thaw them at room temperature before warming.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked warmth, gently reheat your Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts in a microwave for about 10 seconds or warm in a low oven for a few minutes. This helps soften any firm sugar coating and revives their soft crumb.

FAQs

Can I use lemon juice instead of lemon zest?

While lemon juice adds acidity and flavor, the zest carries essential oils that provide a much more intense and aromatic lemon punch, which makes the donuts truly special. I recommend using zest for the best results.

Are these donuts gluten-free?

This recipe calls for regular flour, so it’s not gluten-free as is. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends, keeping in mind that texture may vary slightly.

Can I make these without a donut pan?

If you don’t have a donut pan, a mini muffin pan can be a good alternative, though the shape will change. Adjust the bake time slightly and fill the wells a bit less to account for their depth.

How can I make the donuts extra moist?

Make sure not to overmix the batter and don’t overbake. Using melted butter and milk in the right proportions ensures a tender crumb with plenty of moisture.

Is it possible to add other flavors?

Absolutely! You can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon for a different twist, but keep the lemon zest central to maintain that bright citrus character unique to Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly joyful about making Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts at home – they’re quick, flavorful, and offer an uplifting taste experience that’s sure to brighten any day. Whether you’re new to baking donuts or a seasoned pro, this recipe invites you to share a little sunshine with friends or family through each delightful bite. Trust me, once you try these zesty, sugary morsels, they’ll quickly become one of your favorite treats to bake and enjoy!