Experience a burst of citrusy delight with these glazed lemon donut holes. Each bite offers a zesty tang and sweet indulgence, making them perfect for any occasion—from brunch gatherings to cozy family nights. What sets these treats apart is not just their flavor but also the glossy lemon glaze that makes them visually appealing. These donut holes are sure to brighten your day!
Why You’ll Love This Glazed Lemon Donut Holes
These donut holes are a fantastic treat for everyone.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious snacks in no time.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest creates an irresistible citrus burst.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, brunches, or even as a sweet afternoon snack.
- Baked, Not Fried: Enjoy the delightful taste without the added calories from frying.
- Customizable: Add your favorite flavors or toppings to make them uniquely yours.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Baking sheet
- Piping bag (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients easily.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter without lumps.
- Piping bag: Useful for creating uniform shapes if desired.
Ingredients
For the Donut Holes
- 1 cup milk (regular or plant-based)
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed or bottled lemon juice
- 1/4 cup melted butter (regular or plant-based)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp lemon extract (optional)
- 2 cups regular or gluten-free all-purpose flour
For the Glaze
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp melted butter (regular or plant-based)
- 2 oz cream cheese (regular or plant-based)
How to Make Glazed Lemon Donut Holes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your baking sheet will help prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Milk
2. Lemon juice
3. Melted butter
Whisk together until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together:
1. Sugar
2. Baking powder
3. Baking soda
4. Flour
Stir until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 5: Bake the Donut Holes
Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each cavity of your donut pan with batter. Bake for about 10–12 minutes until golden brown.
Step 6: Prepare the Glaze
While waiting for the donut holes to cool, prepare your glaze by mixing:
1. Powdered sugar
2. Melted butter
3. Cream cheese
Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 7: Glaze the Donut Holes
Once cooled, dip each donut hole into the glaze, ensuring they are fully coated. Place on a cooling rack to set.
Enjoy your delightful glazed lemon donut holes!
How to Serve Glazed Lemon Donut Holes
Glazed lemon donut holes are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, these zesty bites can bring joy to any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
With Fresh Berries
- Add a side of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the donuts.
Drizzled with Extra Glaze
- For an indulgent touch, drizzle extra lemon glaze over the top of the donut holes right before serving.
Accompanied by Coffee or Tea
- Pair these donut holes with a hot cup of coffee or tea to complement their citrusy flavor and create a cozy atmosphere.
Served on a Dessert Platter
- Arrange donut holes on a beautiful platter with other treats like cookies or brownies for an appealing dessert spread at parties.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- A dollop of whipped cream can add creaminess and make each bite even more delightful alongside the tangy flavor.
How to Perfect Glazed Lemon Donut Holes
To ensure your glazed lemon donut holes turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the flavor significantly compared to bottled options.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently mix your batter until just combined; overmixing can lead to dense donuts.
- Adjust Bake Time: Keep an eye on baking time; ovens vary, and you want them golden but not overbaked.
- Cool Completely Before Glazing: Let the donut holes cool down fully before applying the glaze for better adherence and shine.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add lemon zest or even poppy seeds for added texture and flavor variation.
Best Side Dishes for Glazed Lemon Donut Holes
Glazed lemon donut holes pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some fantastic options that complement their bright flavors.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the donuts.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy side that offers crunch and nutrition.
- Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese can provide a savory counterpoint to the sweet donuts.
- Smoothie Bowl: A vibrant smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds can create an energizing breakfast option alongside.
- Savory Muffins: Pair with herb-infused muffins for those who enjoy contrasting flavors at brunch.
- Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy option adds creaminess and is great for those looking for lighter sides.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky, especially when making glazed lemon donut holes. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.
- Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking powder and flour. Stale ingredients can affect the rise and texture of your donut holes.
- Skipping the zest: Not using lemon zest can reduce the lemon flavor. Make sure to add freshly grated lemon zest for a more vibrant taste.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough donut holes. Stir until just combined for a light, fluffy texture.
- Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure consistent results.
- Ignoring cooling time: Not letting the donut holes cool completely before glazing can cause the glaze to melt off. Allow them to cool on a wire rack first.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store glazed lemon donut holes in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Instructions
- Place cooled donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes for crispy edges.
- Microwave: Heat individually on medium power for about 10-15 seconds for quick warming.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat and warm for about 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Glazed Lemon Donut Holes gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free all-purpose flour as a substitute. This will keep the recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
What is the best way to store Glazed Lemon Donut Holes?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for short-term or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
How long do Glazed Lemon Donut Holes last?
They typically last about 3 days at room temperature or up to 3 months if frozen properly.
Can I use other citrus flavors instead of lemon?
Absolutely! You can substitute lime or orange juice and zest for different flavor profiles while maintaining that citrusy zing.
Final Thoughts
These glazed lemon donut holes are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a perfect treat for any occasion, from brunch gatherings to casual snacking. Feel free to customize your glaze with different citrus flavors or even add sprinkles on top!
Glazed Lemon Donut Holes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 donut holes 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of Glazed Lemon Donut Holes, where each bite bursts with refreshing citrus flavor. These baked treats are light and fluffy, topped with a glossy cream cheese glaze that adds just the right amount of sweetness. Perfect for any occasion—from brunch gatherings to cozy snacks—these donut holes are sure to brighten your day. Their easy preparation makes them an ideal choice for bakers of all skill levels, and their irresistible taste will have everyone coming back for more!
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk (regular or plant-based)
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (regular or gluten-free)
- For the glaze: 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 2 oz cream cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking sheet.
- In a bowl, whisk together milk, lemon juice, and melted butter.
- In another bowl, mix sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and flour until combined.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir gently until just mixed.
- Fill each cavity of a donut pan with batter and bake for 10–12 minutes until golden brown.
- For the glaze, mix powdered sugar, melted butter, and cream cheese until smooth.
- Once cooled, dip donut holes into the glaze and let them set on a cooling rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut hole (30g)
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
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