The Best Fluffy Pancakes recipe you will fall in love with. Full of tips and tricks to help you make the best pancakes.
Craving a sweet treat without the deep-fried guilt? These exquisite Baked Buttermilk Donuts offer a heavenly soft texture and a subtle tangy sweetness. Each bite delivers pure comfort, especially when finished with a delicate glaze.
Baking makes them a lighter, more wholesome option for breakfast or dessert. Get ready to fall in love with these easy, delightful Baked Buttermilk Donuts.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Baked Buttermilk Donuts
Imagine starting your day with a delightful treat that tastes indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make. Our recipe for Baked Buttermilk Donuts transforms a classic into a lighter, healthier version without sacrificing any of the flavor or texture you adore. These donuts offer a perfect balance of tangy buttermilk and sweet notes, making them irresistible for brunch, dessert, or a cozy afternoon pick-me-up.
They are a fantastic way to enjoy a beloved bakery item from the comfort of your own kitchen, allowing you to control the ingredients and add your personal touch. This recipe truly embodies the joy of homemade baking.
- Unbelievably fluffy and moist with a perfect tangy sweetness.
- Much healthier than fried versions, making indulgence guilt-free.
- Incredibly simple to prepare, even for beginner bakers.
- Customizable with various glazes and toppings for endless fun.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating truly memorable Baked Buttermilk Donuts begins with selecting the finest ingredients. Quality components ensure superior flavor and texture, transforming simple baking into an exquisite experience. For these donuts, we focus on classic pantry staples, ensuring that each element contributes to the overall deliciousness.
Prioritizing fresh, wholesome ingredients not only enhances the taste but also aligns with an eco-responsible approach to cooking, minimizing waste and maximizing flavor. Here is what you will gather to bake your perfect batch of Baked Buttermilk Donuts:
- 2 cups (240g) All-Purpose Flour
- ¾ cup (150g) Granulated Sugar
- 2 tsp Baking Powder
- ½ tsp Baking Soda
- ½ tsp Salt
- 1 large Egg, at room temperature
- 1 cup (240ml) Buttermilk, at room temperature
- ¼ cup (57g) Unsalted Butter, melted and cooled
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- For the Glaze:
- 1 ½ cups (180g) Powdered Sugar
- 3-4 tbsp Milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- ½ tsp Vanilla Extract
Substitutions & Variations
Note: This video is for demonstration purposes and may use a slightly different method.
As a proponent of creative and eco-responsible cooking, I always encourage healthy swaps and exciting variations. You can easily adapt these Baked Buttermilk Donuts to fit various dietary needs or simply to experiment with new flavors. These suggestions not only offer healthier alternatives but also help reduce food waste by utilizing ingredients you might already have on hand. Don’t hesitate to personalize your donuts and explore a vibrant palette of tastes and textures.
- Flour: For a boost of fiber, substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour. This maintains a tender crumb while adding nutritional value to your Baked Buttermilk Donuts.
- Sugar: Reduce the granulated sugar by a quarter and try natural sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar for a more complex sweetness in both the donuts and the glaze. Adjust liquid content slightly if using liquid sweeteners.
- Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, create your own by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of regular milk (dairy or non-dairy) and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it curdles. For a fully plant-based version of Baked Buttermilk Donuts, use plant-based milk and an egg replacer.
- Butter: Coconut oil or a neutral-flavored vegetable oil works well as a dairy-free alternative to melted butter.
- Glaze Variations:
- Lemon Glaze: Replace some of the milk with fresh lemon juice and add lemon zest for a bright, tangy finish.
- Berry Glaze: Mash a few fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries) into your powdered sugar and milk for a naturally colored, fruity glaze. This also helps use up any berries nearing their prime, a great anti-waste tip!
- Chocolate Glaze: Whisk in a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder to your powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla mixture.
- Spices: Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, comforting flavor profile in your Baked Buttermilk Donuts.
As you explore the exciting variations of Baked Buttermilk Donuts, don’t miss out on trying some classic flavors like the Old-Fashioned Apple Cider Donuts. These unique twists can elevate your baking game, keeping it fresh and fun.
Equipment You’ll Need
To successfully create these delightful Baked Buttermilk Donuts, having the right tools on hand makes the process smooth and enjoyable. You don’t need highly specialized equipment, just a few kitchen essentials. Investing in a good donut pan is the most crucial step, as it provides the perfect shape and ensures even baking.
- Donut Pan (standard 6-cavity or mini donut pan)
- Large Mixing Bowls (at least two)
- Whisk
- Rubber Spatula
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Piping Bag or Large Ziploc Bag (optional, for filling donut pans)
- Wire Cooling Rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
Baking these delightful Baked Buttermilk Donuts is a straightforward process, perfect for bakers of all levels. Follow these clear, numbered steps to achieve perfectly soft, tender, and delicious donuts every time. Precision and gentle handling ensure the best texture and rise.
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your donut pan(s) with butter or non-stick spray, even if they are non-stick. This prevents sticking and ensures easy release of your Baked Buttermilk Donuts.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure all ingredients are well combined and there are no lumps.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the egg, buttermilk, melted and cooled butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Use a rubber spatula to gently fold until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to tough donuts.
- Fill Donut Pan: Spoon the batter into a piping bag or a large Ziploc bag with a corner snipped off. Pipe the batter evenly into each donut cavity, filling them about two-thirds full. Alternatively, carefully spoon the batter into the cavities using two spoons, ensuring an even distribution.
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the donuts are golden brown and spring back when lightly touched. If using a toothpick, it should come out clean when inserted into the center of a donut. Baking time may vary depending on your oven and the size of your donut pan.
- Cool: Remove the donut pan from the oven and let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, gently invert the pan onto a wire cooling rack to fully cool your Baked Buttermilk Donuts. Cooling completely before glazing is crucial to prevent the glaze from melting.
- Prepare Glaze: While the donuts cool, prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and free of lumps. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze or more milk for a thinner glaze.
- Glaze Donuts: Once the donuts are completely cool, dip the top of each donut into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. You can also drizzle the glaze over the donuts with a spoon for a rustic look.
- Set: Place the glazed donuts back on the wire rack to allow the glaze to set before serving. Enjoy your homemade Baked Buttermilk Donuts!
Baking these delightful Baked Buttermilk Donuts is a straightforward process, perfect for bakers of all levels. To continue your culinary adventure, consider making Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Made Simple for a deliciously balanced meal.
Pro Tips for Success
Achieving perfect Baked Buttermilk Donuts involves a few key techniques that elevate them from good to truly exceptional. These professional tips focus on precision, ingredient quality, and gentle handling, ensuring every batch you bake is a resounding success. Hana’s philosophy of mindful cooking extends to these small details that make a big difference.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your egg and buttermilk are at room temperature. This helps them incorporate more smoothly into the batter, creating a more uniform emulsion and a lighter, fluffier texture in your Baked Buttermilk Donuts.
- Do Not Overmix: This is perhaps the most crucial tip. Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in dense, chewy donuts instead of light, tender ones. Mix the batter just until the wet and dry ingredients are combined. A few lumps are perfectly acceptable.
- Grease Your Pan Well: Even if your donut pan is non-stick, a light coating of butter or cooking spray ensures easy release and prevents any sticking disasters.
- Fill Pans Evenly: Use a piping bag for the neatest and most even distribution of batter. This helps your Baked Buttermilk Donuts bake uniformly and prevents overfilling or underfilling.
- Avoid Overbaking: Baked donuts can dry out quickly if left in the oven too long. Start checking for doneness at the minimum recommended baking time. They should be lightly golden and spring back when gently pressed.
- Cool Completely Before Glazing: Patience is a virtue here! Glazing warm donuts will cause the glaze to melt and slide right off, resulting in a sticky mess. Let them cool fully on a wire rack.
- Quality Buttermilk Matters: The tanginess and tenderizing properties of good quality buttermilk are key to the unique flavor and texture of these Baked Buttermilk Donuts. Opt for fresh buttermilk if possible.
Storage & Reheating Tips
To savor the deliciousness of your homemade Baked Buttermilk Donuts for as long as possible, proper storage is essential. While these donuts are undeniably best enjoyed fresh on the day they are baked, you can keep them flavorful for a few days with these simple tips, aligning perfectly with an anti-gaspillage (anti-waste) mindset.
- Airtight Container: Store leftover Baked Buttermilk Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to 4 days, though the texture might become slightly firmer.
- Separate Layers: If stacking, place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent the glaze from sticking.
- Freezing (Un-glazed): For longer storage, freeze un-glazed donuts. Wrap each cooled donut individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature and then glaze. This method is excellent for enjoying fresh Baked Buttermilk Donuts whenever a craving strikes without baking a full batch.
- Reheating: While often enjoyed at room temperature, you can gently warm plain Baked Buttermilk Donuts in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a just-baked feel. Be cautious not to overheat, as they can become rubbery. Glazed donuts are best not reheated in the microwave to preserve the glaze texture.
To savor the deliciousness of your homemade Baked Buttermilk Donuts for as long as possible, proper storage is essential. For those who enjoy filled treats, check out our Cream Filled Donuts recipe for more delightful options.
What to Serve With This Recipe
These delightful Baked Buttermilk Donuts are wonderfully versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. To embrace a balanced and vibrant culinary experience, consider serving them alongside fresh, wholesome options. Hana loves creating colorful fusions, and these pairings offer both complementary flavors and nutritional balance.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of seasonal berries, melon, and citrus provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet, tangy donuts. The brightness of the fruit beautifully balances the richness of the Baked Buttermilk Donuts.
- Plant-Based Yogurt Parfait: Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. This adds protein and probiotics, making for a more complete and satisfying breakfast or brunch.
- Coffee or Tea: A classic pairing! A hot cup of your favorite coffee or an aromatic herbal tea provides a comforting beverage that complements the sweetness of the donuts without overwhelming them.
- Homemade Berry Compote: A simple compote made from fresh or frozen berries offers a warm, fruity topping. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps utilize any fruit nearing its peak, aligning with anti-waste principles.
- Green Smoothie: For a truly vibrant and nutritious start, pair your donut with a refreshing green smoothie packed with spinach, banana, and plant-based milk. This creates a fun balance between indulgence and wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these Baked Buttermilk Donuts vegan?
Absolutely! To create vegan Baked Buttermilk Donuts, swap the large egg for a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes). For buttermilk, use plant-based milk (like almond or soy) mixed with 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.
Replace melted butter with an equal amount of melted vegan butter or a neutral oil like coconut or canola. Ensure your glaze milk is also plant-based. These simple substitutions yield equally delicious and tender vegan donuts.
How do I know if my Baked Buttermilk Donuts are fully baked?
You’ll know your Baked Buttermilk Donuts are perfectly baked when they appear golden brown around the edges and spring back lightly to the touch in the center. For added assurance, insert a toothpick into one of the donuts; it should come out clean, indicating the batter is fully cooked through. Be mindful not to overbake, as this can lead to dry donuts. Always start checking at the minimum recommended baking time.
Can I freeze Baked Buttermilk Donuts?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze Baked Buttermilk Donuts! For the best results, freeze them un-glazed. Once the donuts have completely cooled, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe airtight bag or container.
They will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature and then apply your desired glaze. This method is fantastic for meal prepping sweet treats and minimizing food waste.
Baked Buttermilk Donuts are a beloved variant of traditional donuts that are healthier as they are baked rather than fried. These delightful confections can be customized with various flavors and toppings, making them a favorite for both breakfast and dessert; learn more about them in this doughnut history.
Final Thoughts
These Baked Buttermilk Donuts bring a ray of sunshine to any day. They embody creative joy, simple ingredients, and mindful indulgence. Share them with loved ones, experiment with glazes, and truly savor each fluffy, tangy bite. Happy baking!
Nutrition Information (per serving)
(Based on approximately 12 servings, values are approximate and may vary with specific ingredients and portion sizes for the Baked Buttermilk Donuts, excluding glaze.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Total Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 4.5g |
| Cholesterol | 35mg |
| Sodium | 180mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Total Sugars | 18g |
| Protein | 4g |
Baked Buttermilk Donuts
These exquisite Baked Buttermilk Donuts offer a heavenly soft texture and a subtle tangy sweetness, finished with a delicate glaze for pure comfort.
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your donut pan(s).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the egg, buttermilk, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and fold gently until just combined.
- Fill the donut pan cavities about two-thirds full.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Whisk together the glaze ingredients until smooth.
- Once donuts are cool, glaze them and let set before serving.
Notes
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. Do not overmix the batter. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze un-glazed donuts for up to 3 months.
