As I stood at my kitchen counter, I couldn’t help but be enchanted by the bright scent of fresh lemon zest dancing through the air. It’s amazing how a simple combination of ingredients can transform an ordinary day into a delightful experience! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Glazed Lemon Donut Holes that are not only a breeze to whip up but also add a zesty spark to any occasion. In just 27 minutes, you can indulge in these airy, lemon-infused bites, making them a perfect treat for brunch or a cozy afternoon snack. Plus, they’re ideal for keeping a smile on everyone’s face, whether you’re entertaining friends or simply treating yourself. Ready to brighten up your day? Let’s dive into the joy of making these scrumptious donut holes together!
Why are these Donut Holes a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The fresh lemon juice infuses a delightful zing, making every bite a refreshing escape.
Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep and a total time of 27 minutes, you can achieve bakery-quality treats right at home.
Versatile Treats: Perfect for brunch gatherings, snack attacks, or even as sweet surprises for friends and family, these donut holes fit any occasion!
Crowd-Pleaser: Light, airy, and oh-so-delicious, they effortlessly win over both kids and adults alike, ensuring smiles all around.
Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, you’ll find joy in creating something special from regular items you already have.
Don’t miss out on adding a little zest to your life – these Glazed Lemon Donut Holes are sure to be a new favorite!
Glazed Lemon Donut Holes Ingredients
For the Donut Holes
- Milk – enhances the moisture and texture, keeping the donut holes fluffy.
- Lemon Juice – adds that refreshing zing and bright flavor essential for glazed lemon donut holes.
- Melted Butter – contributes to the rich, buttery taste that makes these treats irresistible.
- Sugar – sweetens your donut holes perfectly, balancing the tartness of the lemon.
- Baking Powder – ensures the donut holes rise beautifully in the oven.
- Baking Soda – works alongside the baking powder for a light and airy result.
- Flour – the base ingredient that holds everything together, creating the perfect structure.
For the Glaze
- Cream Cheese – provides a creamy texture and tangy flavor to the glaze, making it truly delightful.
- Powdered Sugar – sweetens the glaze, allowing for a smooth finish on your donut holes.
- Melted Butter – adds richness to the glaze, complementing the lemon flavor perfectly.
With these ingredients, you're just a few steps away from enjoying the bliss of homemade glazed lemon donut holes!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Glazed Lemon Donut Holes
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your donut pan by greasing it well with butter or non-stick spray. This step is crucial, as it ensures your glazed lemon donut holes come out smoothly without sticking. Set your pan aside while you mix the batter to achieve a fluffy texture.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of milk, ½ cup of lemon juice, and ¼ cup of melted butter until fully combined. The mixture should have a smooth, creamy consistency, with the bright scent of lemon wafting through the air. This delightful combination sets the stage for your delicious glazed lemon donut holes.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together 1 cup of sugar, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 2 cups of flour. Stir these dry ingredients until they are evenly distributed, creating a fluffy base for your donut holes. The right combination of leavening agents is vital to achieve that light texture you desire.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, gently stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly acceptable. Once blended, you should see a thick, luscious batter ready for your donut pan. This step is essential to create the perfect rise in your glazed lemon donut holes.
Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan
Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each cavity of your prepared donut pan with the batter, ensuring they are about ⅔ full. This allows room for the donut holes to rise without overflowing while baking. Place the filled pan in the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, until they are golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool the Donut Holes
Once baked, remove the donut holes from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack. Cooling is essential to avoid melting the glaze when you dip each donut hole into the creamy mixture. Allow them to cool completely for about 10 minutes.
Step 7: Prepare the Glaze
While your donut holes are cooling, prepare the glaze. In a bowl, combine 2 ounces of cream cheese, 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy, resembling a velvety glaze that’s perfect for coating your delightful lemon donut holes.
Step 8: Dip and Set
Once your donut holes have fully cooled, dip each one into the glaze, ensuring they are fully coated. Shake off any excess glaze and place them on the cooling rack to let the glaze set. This step will add a delightful sweetness to each bite, enhancing the zesty flavor of the glazed lemon donut holes.
What to Serve with Glazed Lemon Donut Holes
These delightful donut holes burst with sunshine, making them perfect companions for a cheerful and flavorful meal.
- Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a refreshing contrast, enhancing the fruity notes of the donut holes.
- Vanilla Yogurt: Creamy and soothing, a side of vanilla yogurt provides a cool contrast, perfect for dipping and balancing the sweetness.
- Herbal Tea: A light chamomile or mint tea creates a calming pairing, complementing the zesty flavors while inviting a moment of relaxation.
- Citrus Salad: A zesty citrus salad made with oranges and grapefruits mirrors the lemony flavor, adding a bright burst of freshness to your spread.
- Creamy Coffee: Brew a rich cup of coffee or latte; its deep flavors offer a beautiful counterpoint to the lightness of the glazed lemon donut holes.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses, like goat cheese or brie, can create an enticing flavor balance that elegantly contrasts the donut holes' sweetness.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a luscious touch, perfect for enhancing your dessert experience with each heavenly bite.
- Lemonade: A glass of iced lemonade keeps the theme alive and refreshes with its tart sweetness, making every mouthful of donut holes even more enjoyable.
Make Ahead Options
These Glazed Lemon Donut Holes are a wonderful choice for meal prep, allowing busy cooks to enjoy homemade treats with minimal fuss! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. For optimal freshness, fill the donut pan and bake just before serving. If desired, glaze the donut holes after they’ve cooled to maintain their delicious texture and flavor. Alternatively, freeze unglazed donut holes for up to 3 months; when you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature and dip them in the creamy glaze. This way, you’ll have delightful, zesty donut holes ready to brighten any day!
Expert Tips for Glazed Lemon Donut Holes
Mixing Method: Don’t overmix the batter after combining wet and dry ingredients; a few lumps will ensure light, fluffy donut holes.
Zest Boost: For an extra citrus kick, add a teaspoon of freshly grated lemon zest to the batter. It intensifies the flavor of your glazed lemon donut holes.
Cooling Time: Let the donut holes cool completely before glazing; otherwise, the warm donuts will melt the glaze, making it runny.
Storage Solutions: Store glazed lemon donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Batch Baking: Feel free to double the recipe if you're hosting a gathering; these treats disappear fast, and leftovers can be frozen!
Storage Tips for Glazed Lemon Donut Holes
Room Temperature: Store glazed lemon donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready to enjoy with your morning coffee.
Fridge: If you want to extend their freshness, refrigerate the donut holes in an airtight container for up to a week. Just allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze glazed lemon donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen donut holes, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked taste.
Glazed Lemon Donut Holes Variations
Customize your glazed lemon donut holes for a fun twist that will tickle your taste buds and make every bite a new adventure!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free cream cheese for a delicious alternative.
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Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of freshly grated lemon zest to the batter for an extra burst of citrus flavor. It will elevate the zinginess to a new level.
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Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these donut holes suitable for those avoiding gluten while maintaining a fluffy texture.
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Chocolate Drizzle: After glazing, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top for a decadent touch that complements the lemon beautifully.
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Mini Donut Size: Use a mini donut pan for bite-sized treats that are perfect for sharing—or indulging in all by yourself!
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Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Before glazing, toss the warm donut holes in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for a cozy, spiced flavor.
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Spicy Kick: For a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze, creating a sweet and spicy contrast that will surprise your palate.
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Berry Glaze: Swap the cream cheese in the glaze for berry puree, like raspberry or strawberry, to create a fruity and colorful topping that adds a delightful twist.
Explore these variations and personalize your glazed lemon donut holes to suit your taste adventures! And if you're in the mood for more sweet treats, check out these Homemade Donuts to expand your baking repertoire.
Glazed Lemon Donut Holes Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe lemons for this recipe?
Absolutely! Choose firm, bright yellow lemons without any dark spots or blemishes. A good lemon will feel heavy for its size, which indicates plenty of juice inside. For the best flavor in your glazed lemon donut holes, look for lemons that have a fresh, zesty fragrance when you give them a gentle squeeze.
How should I store glazed lemon donut holes?
Very! Keep your glazed lemon donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, feel free to refrigerate them. Just be sure to let them come back to room temperature before enjoying for the best texture.
Can I freeze glazed lemon donut holes?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1-2 hours until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before enjoying!
What should I do if my donut holes turn out too dense?
If your glazed lemon donut holes are denser than expected, it may be due to overmixing the batter. To achieve a lighter texture, always mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Also, be sure to check your baking soda and powder's freshness, as expired leavening agents can lead to denser baked goods.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Certainly! If you or someone you're serving has a dairy allergy, you can substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative, and use dairy-free cream cheese for the glaze to make these glazed lemon donut holes suitable for a dairy-free diet. Also, keep in mind that during preparation, cross-contamination can occur, so it’s best to check the labels for allergens if necessary.
How can I enhance the flavor of the donut holes?
Great question! For an extra burst of citrus flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of freshly grated lemon zest into the batter. This simple addition will elevate the taste of your glazed lemon donut holes, making them even more delightful. Don’t hesitate to experiment; cooking is all about having fun in the kitchen!
Delightful Glazed Lemon Donut Holes for Sweet Moments
Equipment
- donut pan
- mixing bowls
- whisk
- spoon or piping bag
Ingredients
For the Donut Holes
- 1 cup milk enhances moisture and texture
- ½ cup lemon juice adds refreshing zing
- ¼ cup melted butter contributes rich taste
- 1 cup sugar sweetens the donut holes
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder ensures proper rise
- 1 teaspoon baking soda lightens the texture
- 2 cups flour base ingredient
For the Glaze
- 2 ounces cream cheese provides creamy texture
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar sweetens the glaze
- 2 tablespoons melted butter adds richness
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions for Glazed Lemon Donut Holes
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your donut pan by greasing it.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, lemon juice, and melted butter until fully combined.
- In another bowl, mix together the sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and flour until evenly distributed.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, gently stirring until just combined.
- Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each cavity of the donut pan about ⅔ full.
- Bake for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- While the donut holes are cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and melted butter.
- Once cooled, dip each donut hole into the glaze and place on the cooling rack to let the glaze set.
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