Baked Donuts Recipe

Indulge Without Guilt: Baked Donuts Recipe

Who says you have to visit a bakery to enjoy delicious donuts? With this Baked Donuts Recipe, you can recreate the magic of your favorite sweet treat right in your own kitchen. These fluffy, pillowy delights are baked to perfection, eliminating the need for deep frying without compromising on taste. Whether you’re craving a classic glazed donut or a chocolate-covered indulgence, this recipe has you covered. Join us as we embark on a journey of culinary delight and learn how to make mouthwatering baked donuts from scratch.

Ingredients

Before we begin, let’s gather all the ingredients we’ll need:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, divided (plus more for dusting)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (quick-acting) (1 packet = 7 grams)
• 2/3 cup warm milk (110˚F – microwave for 35 sec.)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (divided)

Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for making these delectable baked donuts:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients: Pour the warm milk and 2 tablespoons of melted butter into the dry ingredients. Stir until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Add the remaining 1/2 cup of flour as needed to prevent sticking.
4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Donuts: After the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough out to a 1/2-inch thickness and use a donut cutter to cut out individual donuts. Alternatively, you can use a round cookie cutter for the donut shape and a smaller cutter for the center hole.
6. Proof the Donuts: Place the cut-out donuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each donut. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let them proof for 30-45 minutes, or until puffed up and nearly doubled in size.
7. Bake the Donuts: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the donuts have proofed, bake them in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Glaze the Donuts: While the donuts are baking, prepare your favorite glaze or topping. Once the donuts are done baking, remove them from the oven and brush them with the remaining melted butter. Then, dip them in the glaze of your choice or sprinkle with toppings as desired.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Allow the glazed donuts to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with a cup of coffee or your favorite beverage.

Cook Notes and Variations

Here are some helpful tips and variations to customize your baked donuts:

• Flavor Variations: Get creative with flavorings and add-ins. Try adding vanilla extract, cinnamon, or lemon zest to the dough for a burst of flavor. You can also mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for added texture and richness.
• Glaze Options: Experiment with different glazes and toppings to suit your taste preferences. Classic options include chocolate glaze, vanilla glaze, or powdered sugar. For a fun twist, try a maple glaze, caramel drizzle, or sprinkles.
• Baked vs. Fried: While this recipe focuses on baked donuts for a healthier alternative to traditional fried donuts, you can adapt the dough for frying if desired. Simply roll out the dough, cut into shapes, and fry in hot oil until golden brown.
• Storage and Reheating: Baked donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the donuts in a preheated oven for a few minutes until warm, or microwave for a quick blast of heat.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s how to adapt this baked donuts recipe to fit your dietary preferences:

• Almond Flour Base: Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a combination of almond flour and coconut flour for a low-carb alternative. Almond flour provides a nutty flavor and tender texture that closely resembles traditional flour.
• Sugar-Free Sweeteners: Substitute granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol, stevia, or monk fruit sweetener. These alternatives provide sweetness without the extra carbs, allowing you to indulge in guilt-free treats.
• Butter or Coconut Oil: Use butter or coconut oil instead of vegetable oil for added richness and flavor. These healthy fats help enhance the texture and mouthfeel of the baked donuts while keeping them keto-friendly.
• Low-Carb Toppings: Opt for low-carb glazes and toppings such as sugar-free chocolate ganache, whipped cream, or a drizzle of nut butter. These options add sweetness and decadence without compromising your keto goals.

In conclusion, Baked Donuts are a delightful treat that brings the joy of homemade baking to your kitchen. With their fluffy texture, golden exterior, and endless flavor possibilities, these donuts are sure to become a favorite among family and friends. Whether enjoyed as a morning indulgence, afternoon snack, or dessert after dinner, baked donuts offer a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in the comforting goodness of homemade baked donuts. Your taste buds—and your soul—will thank you!