Strawberry Donuts

If you’re looking for a delightful way to brighten your morning or sweeten up an afternoon snack, these Strawberry Donuts are just the thing! Made with fresh strawberries and baked to perfection, they are light, fluffy, and oh-so-delicious. This recipe is a favorite in my home because it brings back memories of family gatherings and sunny brunches with friends. Plus, they’re simple enough for even the busiest weeknights!

Imagine biting into a warm donut that bursts with fresh strawberry flavor. Whether you’re surprising loved ones or treating yourself, these Strawberry Donuts are sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, anyone can whip up these delicious donuts from scratch.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves donuts! These treats will surely bring smiles to faces of all ages.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or a snack, these donuts fit right in.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare the batter ahead of time and bake when you’re ready to enjoy!
• Bursting with flavor: Fresh strawberries take these donuts to the next level of deliciousness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Strawberry Donuts call for simple and wholesome ingredients that you likely have on hand. They come together quickly and easily, making this recipe perfect for any day of the week!

For the Donuts

• 1 tbsp butter, unsalted
• ¾ cup sugar
• 1 egg
• ¾ tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup buttermilk
• ¾ cup cake flour
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 12-15 strawberries (about 1 cup pureed)

Variations

One of the best things about these Strawberry Donuts is how flexible the recipe can be! Feel free to get creative with your flavors and toppings.

• Add a twist: Try mixing in chocolate chips or nuts for added texture.
• Change the fruit: Substitute strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for a different fruity flavor.
• Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour blends in place of regular flour for a gluten-free option.
• Glaze it differently: Experiment with different glazes like lemon or chocolate to mix things up!

How to Make Strawberry Donuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your donuts bake evenly and rise beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries

Trim your strawberries and add them to a food processor. Pulse until you get a chunky puree. It’s important not to over-pulse them; we want some texture! Set this aside while you work on the batter.

Step 3: Mix Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine your butter, sugar, and egg. Using medium-high speed, mix them together for about two minutes until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it helps incorporate air into the mixture, giving your donuts that lovely lift.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Next, add in your vanilla extract, buttermilk, and strawberry puree. Mix again until everything is well combined. The sweetness of strawberries mixed with creamy buttermilk creates such a lovely base for your donuts!

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to add both flours along with baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix on low speed until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix here; we want our donuts light and airy!

Step 6: Fill Your Piping Bag

Scoop the donut batter into a large piping bag or freezer bag. This neat technique makes filling your donut tin mess-free! Close the bag securely and snip off one corner.

Step 7: Grease the Donut Tin

Lightly grease your donut tin before carefully squeezing the batter into each mold—fill them no more than halfway full. This ensures there’s room for rising without overflowing.

Step 8: Bake Away!

Pop those donuts into your preheated oven on the middle rack and bake for about 7-8 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they spring back lightly when touched.

Step 9: Prepare the Glaze

While your donuts are baking away, whisk together powdered sugar and milk in a bowl. This glaze will add that perfect touch of sweetness once your donuts are cool enough.

Step 10: Glaze Your Donuts

Once baked, let your donuts cool slightly on a wire rack before glazing them. Pour or dip each donut into the glaze allowing it to drip off slightly before enjoying! The glaze will harden after about 20-30 minutes—if they last that long!

And there you have it! Enjoy every bite of these delightful Strawberry Donuts; they’re sure to bring joy whether at breakfast or as an afternoon treat!

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Donuts

Making these delightful Strawberry Donuts is a breeze, but a few tips can elevate your baking game to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh strawberries: Fresh strawberries will give your donuts the best flavor and moisture. Avoid using frozen strawberries as they can alter the texture and make your batter too watery.

• Don’t overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts instead of the light, fluffy texture we all love.

• Fill donut molds halfway: Filling your donut molds only halfway allows them to rise beautifully without spilling over. This ensures each donut has that perfect shape and size.

• Adjust baking time based on your oven: Every oven is different; check your donuts a minute or two before the recommended time. They should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched.

• Let them cool before glazing: Allowing the donuts to cool on a wire rack before glazing ensures that the glaze adheres properly and doesn’t slide off.

How to Serve Strawberry Donuts

These Strawberry Donuts are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Presenting them beautifully can make any occasion feel special.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of mint adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the strawberry flavor beautifully.
• Shredded coconut: Lightly toasted shredded coconut sprinkled on top gives an extra layer of texture and sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Yogurt parfait: Layer creamy yogurt with granola and additional fresh strawberries for a wholesome side that balances sweetness with creaminess.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits will enhance the flavors of your donuts while providing a healthy counterpoint.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs perfectly with these sweet treats, creating a cozy breakfast or snack experience.
• Smoothie bowl: A vibrant smoothie bowl topped with granola and sliced fruits makes for a colorful and nutritious complement to your strawberry donuts.

Now you’re ready to whip up these delicious Strawberry Donuts! Enjoy them fresh from the oven, at brunch gatherings, or as an afternoon snack. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Strawberry Donuts are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch in advance, making them an ideal snack or breakfast option to have on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for about 2-3 days.
• If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing.

Freezing

• Allow the donuts to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer the donuts to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 5-7 minutes.
• You can also microwave individual donuts for about 10-15 seconds if you’re in a hurry.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Donuts:

Can I use frozen strawberries for these Strawberry Donuts?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just ensure they are thawed and drained before pureeing.

How do I know when my Strawberry Donuts are done baking?

Your Strawberry Donuts are ready when they spring back lightly when touched and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Can I make these Strawberry Donuts gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.

What should I do if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can make your own by mixing one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using it in the recipe.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Strawberry Donuts! They’re not only lovely to look at but also packed with flavor, making them a great treat for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying them on your own, I’m sure they’ll bring a smile to your face. Happy baking!