Name: Baked Donuts with Lemon and Poppy Seeds
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 egg Egg; 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice; 1/2 teaspoon Lemon Zest; 1.5 cups Splenda; 1/2 cup Whole-Wheat Pastry Flour; 1/2 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1 tablespoon Poppy Seeds; 2 tablespoons Light Sour Cream; 1/4 cup Light Sour Cream; 1/8 teaspoon Vanilla; 1/4 cup Splenda; 1/8 teaspoon Salt

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Whenever I think of my favorite brunch treats, Baked Donuts with Lemon and Poppy Seeds immediately comes to mind. The light, zesty flavor of lemon combined with the delightful crunch of poppy seeds creates a blend that’s not just pleasing to the palate but also visually appealing. I remember the first time I attempted to make these donuts; the scent of fresh lemons filled my kitchen, inviting my family to gather around. What I love most is how they seem to brighten up any morning, making an ordinary day feel special. These donuts are not just a sweet treat; they carry the warmth of home and the joy of sharing food with loved ones.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
90 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Standard

Fat:
2 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Large Pot

Why This Baked Donuts with Lemon and Poppy Seeds Stands Out

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the things I adore about Baked Donuts with Lemon and Poppy Seeds is their versatility. They’re not just for breakfast; I’ve served them at brunches, casual get-togethers, and even as a sweet addition to a picnic. Their bright flavor and light texture make them a wonderful complement to various beverages, from coffee to tea. You can’t go wrong serving these beauties!

Healthier Indulgence

These donuts are made with whole-wheat pastry flour, which adds a nutritious twist to a classic treat. The use of Splenda instead of regular sugar means you can enjoy these without the guilt. You can indulge in the deliciousness of homemade donuts while keeping an eye on your health—what’s not to love?

Aromatic Zest

The combination of fresh lemon juice and lemon zest gives these donuts an irresistible aroma that’s sure to brighten your day. As they bake, the scent wafts through the house, making it hard to resist sampling one fresh out of the oven. It’s like a little burst of sunshine on a plate!

Easy to Make

Even if you’re new to baking, these donuts are incredibly easy to prepare. You don’t need any fancy equipment or techniques. Just a few simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of warm, delectable donuts ready to devour. It’s a perfect recipe to involve kids in the kitchen, teaching them the joy of cooking.

Impressive Finish

The glaze adds the final touch to your Baked Donuts with Lemon and Poppy Seeds. A quick boil with some simple ingredients creates a shiny, sweet topping that elevates the look and taste of your donuts. You’ll be proud to serve these at your next gathering!

Great for Sharing

Donuts are always a hit when it comes to sharing with friends or family. They’re easy to pack and perfect for parties or as a delightful surprise for neighbors. The joy of bringing a homemade treat to someone can’t be overstated, and these donuts are just the ticket to spread happiness!

What Goes Into Baked Donuts with Lemon and Poppy Seeds

When it comes to the ingredients for Baked Donuts with Lemon and Poppy Seeds, simplicity is key. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture. The combination of zesty lemon and crunchy poppy seeds not only tantalizes your taste buds but also creates a delightful contrast in the donut’s softness. Let’s explore what makes up this deliciously light treat.

1 egg: The egg acts as a binder, helping to create a fluffy texture. It’s the base that brings everything together.
2 tablespoons lemon juice: This adds the tangy flavor that elevates the donuts, making them refreshing and light.
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest: Packed with concentrated flavor, it enhances the lemon essence and aroma.
1.5 cups Splenda: A sugar substitute that reduces calories while still adding sweetness.
1/2 cup whole-wheat pastry flour: This flour gives a healthier twist while still keeping the donuts tender and fluffy.
1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Essential for leavening, it helps the donuts rise and become airy.
1 tablespoon poppy seeds: They provide a delightful crunch and a beautiful appearance.
2 tablespoons light sour cream: Adds moisture and richness to the batter, ensuring the donuts are soft.
1/4 cup light sour cream: Using a bit more helps balance the texture of the dough.
1/8 teaspoon vanilla: A touch of vanilla enhances the flavors, making them more rounded and inviting.
1/4 cup Splenda: Used again for the glaze, it keeps the sweetness without added calories.
1/8 teaspoon salt: A small amount of salt enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.

Step by Step Guide for Baked Donuts with Lemon and Poppy Seeds

Making Baked Donuts with Lemon and Poppy Seeds is a fun and straightforward process that anyone can master. With just a few ingredients and steps, you’ll have a delicious treat in no time. Let’s dive into the details!

Spray your donut pan with cooking spray and preheat your oven to the desired temperature. Make sure every nook and cranny of the pan is greased well, so the donuts come out easily.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and Splenda on high with an electric mixer until the mixture is light and foamy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, ensuring fluffy donuts.
In a separate medium bowl, combine the whole-wheat pastry flour, baking powder, and poppy seeds. Mixing these dry ingredients thoroughly ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed.
Slowly stir the dry mixture and the sour cream into the egg mixture. Fold gently until well combined, being careful not to overmix. This technique keeps the donuts light and airy.
Drop a tablespoonful of the mixture into each donut spot and close the lid. Make sure not to overfill the pan, as the donuts will rise during baking.
While the donuts cook for about 3 to 4 minutes a batch, it’s time to prepare the glaze. Keep an eye on them; you want that perfect golden color!
In a small saucepan, combine all the glaze ingredients and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. This ensures that the Splenda dissolves fully, creating a smooth glaze.
Once boiling, let it boil for 1 minute and then remove from heat. This quick boil helps thicken the glaze, giving it a delightful consistency.
Take your cooked donuts out of the pan and dip them right into the glaze, or use a spoon—either method works! Make sure to coat them well for maximum flavor.
DEVOUR! Enjoy your freshly made donuts with family or friends, relish the moment, and feel the joy of sharing!

Things Worth Knowing

Donut Pan: A good quality donut pan is essential for shaping your donuts. Silicone pans are particularly easy to use as they help with the release.
Mixing Technique: Avoid overmixing when combining the wet and dry ingredients. This is key to achieving a light texture.
Perfect Glaze: The glaze can be adjusted to your liking. If you prefer it thicker, let it cool a bit before dipping your donuts.
Storage: Store leftover donuts in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for a few days at room temperature.

Making Adjustments

Every baker has their own style, and these tips will help you customize your Baked Donuts with Lemon and Poppy Seeds to suit your taste! Whether you want to tweak the flavors or adjust the texture, you can make these donuts your own.

Storage: Keep leftover donuts in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They can last for 2 to 3 days.
Freezing: These donuts freeze well! Just make sure they are cooled completely before wrapping them individually and storing them in a freezer bag.
Pairing: These donuts go great with a cup of coffee or a refreshing herbal tea. They make an excellent brunch dish when paired with fresh fruit.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment! Adding a teaspoon of poppy seed or almond extract can give a unique twist to the flavor.
Personal Touch: You can add nuts or dried fruits into the batter for added texture and flavor!

Serving Options for Baked Donuts with Lemon and Poppy Seeds

When it comes to serving Baked Donuts with Lemon and Poppy Seeds, the possibilities are as delightful as the donuts themselves! Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience:

Brunch Delight: Serve these donuts at brunch gatherings alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, and coffee for a complete meal.
Picnic Treat: Pack these donuts for a picnic. They’re portable and add a sweet touch to your outdoor feast.
Party Centerpiece: Arrange them on a beautiful platter for parties. They make a stunning centerpiece that’s sure to impress guests.
Kids’ Treat: Perfect for children’s parties, these donuts can be decorated with colorful icing or sprinkles for fun!
Seasonal Pairing: In spring, pair them with fresh berries. In summer, try them with a scoop of sorbet for a refreshing taste!

FAQ

Yes, you can substitute the whole-wheat pastry flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to use a mix that includes a binding agent to mimic the properties of the gluten in regular flour.

To keep your Baked Donuts with Lemon and Poppy Seeds fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll last for about 2 to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them!

Absolutely! You can get creative by adding different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even incorporating mashed bananas or applesauce for a fruitier taste. These tweaks can add delightful flavors to your donuts.

Using cooking spray generously on the donut pan is key. You can also dust the pan with a little flour after spraying it. This will create a barrier that helps the donuts release easily once they’re done baking.

Conclusion

The beauty of Baked Donuts with Lemon and Poppy Seeds lies in their simplicity and delightful flavor. They serve as a perfect treat for any occasion and are easy to whip up in your kitchen. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed! Enjoy the cheerful flavors and the smiles they bring to your table.